The London comedy scene is reaching a fever pitch this week as a mix of global superstars and rising circuit legends descend upon the capital. Whether you are looking for high-stakes arena-style intimacy in the West End or the gritty, unpredictable energy of a basement comedy club in Soho, the schedule for 16–22 February 2026 offers something for every comedic palate. From high-profile work-in-progress sets to world-record-holding improv troupes, here is your definitive guide to the best comedy shows in London this week, complete with the specific timings you need to plan your evening.
Big Names at Leicester Square Theatre and The Palladium
One of the most anticipated residencies of the year continues this week at the Leicester Square Theatre, situated in the heart of the West End and accessible via the Northern and Piccadilly lines. On Monday 16 February 2026 and Tuesday 17 February 2026, the legendary Ricky Gervais & Friends will take the stage at 19:00 for a series of new material nights. These shows are famously loose, offering fans a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s most influential comedians testing brand-new jokes in an intimate room. Meanwhile, at the nearby London Palladium on Monday 16 February 2026, the incredibly talented Lucie Jones performs a one-night-only special starting at 19:30, proving that the West End’s biggest stages are buzzing with variety this week.
The Comedy Store: A West End Institution
No week of comedy in London is complete without a visit to The Comedy Store on Oxendon Street, located between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. On Monday 16 February 2026 at 20:00, Ian Stone presents his show “Looking for the Wow,” a masterclass in observational wit. As the week progresses, the famous “Best in Stand Up” series takes over, beginning on Thursday 19 February 2026 at 19:30 and continuing on Friday 20 February 2026 at 19:30. The Saturday 21 February 2026 schedule offers two chances to catch the action with shows at 18:30 and 21:30, featuring a powerhouse line-up including Helen Bauer, Mike Gunn, and Funmbi Omotayo. To close out the week on Sunday 22 February 2026 at 19:30, the legendary Comedy Store Players will perform their world-renowned improv show, often featuring stars like Josie Lawrence and Marcus Brigstocke.
Cutting Edge Comedy in Walthamstow and Greenwich
For those willing to venture slightly further afield, the comedy offerings are equally impressive. Soho Theatre Walthamstow, located in North East London, hosts the brilliantly unique Maria Bamford on Friday 20 February 2026 at 19:00, followed by Josh Pugh’s “Neon Nights” on Saturday 21 February 2026 at 20:00. South of the river, Up The Creek in Greenwich remains a titan of the local scene. The week kicks off with Sharifa Butterfly on Tuesday 17 February 2026 at 19:00. On Thursday 19 February 2026 at 20:00, the high-octane “Blackout” show returns with Diesel MC, where newer acts try to survive five minutes on stage without being buzzed off. The weekend at Up The Creek is anchored by the “Friday Night Show” on 20 February 2026 at 19:00 and “Saturday Night Comedy” on 21 February 2026 at 19:00, before the incomparable Josie Long takes over for “The Sunday Service” on 22 February 2026 at 18:30.
Practical Information for Visitors
When planning your night out, it is worth noting that most West End comedy clubs are located within the Congestion Charge zone, making public transport the preferred option. Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus stations serve the majority of the venues mentioned. For those heading to the South East for Up The Creek in Greenwich, the Cutty Sark DLR is only a one-minute walk away, and parking is generally free in the area after 19:00. Most venues have a strict age limit of 18+ due to licensing and the adult nature of the material. While many of the headline shows at Leicester Square Theatre often sell out in advance, “The Best in Stand Up” at The Comedy Store frequently has limited tickets available on the door if you arrive early. Always check official venue websites like Ticketmaster UK or AXS for the most reliable late-release tickets.
