Concerts, gigs and stand-up shows make for great dates and London has something for everyone. Whether you’re a classical music fan or into jazz, all the shows on this page can be enjoyed without spending a single penny.
Angel Comedy \ Islington
The Camden Head and The Bill Murray in Angel, Islington, host regular free live comedy nights every night of the week, featuring stars and experienced acts performing new material, alongside stand-up novices doing their first gigs.
These shows are hugely popular, so make sure to arrive early (at least an hour before) as there are no reservations and seats fill up quickly!
Want to try a free comedy workshop? See our Unusual Date Ideas page for more info!
When: Normally 8 p.m. at the Camden Head, 9.15 p.m. at The Bill Murray
Nearest station: Angel
Hootananny Brixton \ Brixton
Hootananny Brixton is a multi-award-winning live music and comedy venue with a beer garden and street food stalls.
Their free live comedy shows run between September and March, every Friday evening from 8:30 – 10:00 p.m.
Admission is always fairly cheap (Free live music (Reggae, Ska, Soul, Latin and more) plays regularly.
NB: This is an over-21s bar and you will need photo ID to get in (no matter your age), so bring your driving license or passport. Non-members can stay until 11 p.m., but only members are able to stay after hours.
Nearest station: Brixton; Herne Hill
Top Secret Comedy Club \ Covent Garden
London’s top rated comedy club has tons of free gigs and has featured big names like Jason Manford and Jack Whitehall.
The venue might be a bit plain (it’s a basement bar with a spotlight and not a lot else) but the reviews are excellent.
The Troubadour \ Earl’s Court
Head here for free live jazz in one of London’s best-known venues, which has previously seen the likes of Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix.
Nearest station: Earl’s Court; West Brompton
Free Concerts (Classical And More)
All of these places offer free concerts:
St Martin-in-the-fields
Free lunchtime recitals on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. See full listings here.
The Royal College of Music
Free concerts at various times. Some free events still require tickets, so be sure to check online first before you go.
Southbank Centre
See classical, jazz, folk, world music and more in this huge venue. Simply see their What’s On pages for free events.
London Date Spots 