Opulent, lavish and just that little bit naughty; this city's cabaret scene is absolutely thriving right now. Offering up a scintillating night of alternative entertainment, we’ve rooted out the finest comedy brunches, world-class performances and quirky circus events around the capital to bring you our handpicked selection of the best burlesque shows in London.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 17th December 2024
Head down to The Rosemary Branch Theatre in Islington, where you'll be treated to a brilliant performance of burlesque talents from artists who are developing new work. Stars include Lilith Devine, who is showcasing her newest cabaret performance Got An Itch To Scratch.
The Courtesan is no ordinary restaurant. Not only does this Brixton haunt serve up some of the very best in cocktails and dim sum, but they also have a lineup of jaw-droppingly good burlesque nights and live entertainment.
Step into the wonderfully wild world of Leicester Square Cabaret, hosted at London's Zoo Bar. Tickets start at a budget-friendly £15 per person, giving you access to a Saturday night brimming with outrageous cabaret comedy and burlesque. With performers like Judit Circus and Candy Heals, it's a guaranteed night of laughter, seduction, and all things fabulous.
Over at Tequila Mockingbird Charing Cross and Wimbledon, they're hosting La Fiesta Bottomless Brunches that feature fabulous burlesque dancing performances. On top of that, there will be free-flowing drinks, scrumptious pizza and a range of fun-filled party games.
London Cabaret Carnival takes over Wonderville, just off Leicester Square, with their Friday night events. From comedy burlesque artists to acrobats, contortionists, magicians, drag singers, aerialists and more, each show has a unique lineup featuring some of the best at their craft.
Tickets start from £25 for performance-only entry, while you can also upgrade to include a premium table reservation and two or three-course pre-theatre meals at nearby restaurants.
London's best places to watch burlesque? The Phoenix Arts Club is showcasing a fabulous array of performers at its saucy cabaret shows and themed dinners. Venture over to the Soho saloon for striptease and sips, with a whole lot of talent on the stage.
For dark, twisted and seductive evenings filled with cabaret, head to none other than The Double R Club in Walthamstow. Evenings are presented by aberrant host Benjamin Louche and take you on a glamorous journey to cinematic and saucy depths. What's more, tickets start from around £10 per person so it's a super affordable, sultry evening too.
Dazzling burlesque performances are high on the agenda at CellarDoor. Found in the West End, this slinky speakeasy spot is hosting a fabulous range of starlets throughout the week, bringing twirling tassels and feather boas galore.
House of Burlesque are back with SPEAKEASY, an exciting series that will see provocative cabaret, tassel twirling and more taking to the stage at Holborn's Sway. To enter, you'll need to whisper the secret password into the ear of their box office mistress.
The dons of sultry striptease, Proud are a no-brainer for burlesque and cabaret in London. Expect a range of glamorous stars and incredible three-course meals that you can enjoy stageside.
Hosting sensual soirées filled with cabaret, mystery, glamour and tons of delicacies, Proud Cabaret invites guests to the most luxurious events in town. Head down to indulge in a beautiful theatre-style five-course dining experience or a drag bottomless brunch of dreams.
@ Bush Hall on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th July 2025
Step into the glittering world of burlesque at the World Burlesque Games 2025, held at the iconic Bush Hall in Shepherd's Bush. Across two electrifying evenings, the globe's most talented burlesque stars will compete to claim the ultimate titles.
Expect dazzling costumes, breathtaking routines, and a celebration of glamour and artistry like no other. It's an unmissable spectacle that promises to leave you spellbound.
@ The Two Brewers, Clapham on Sunday 16th February 2025 and 2 other Sundays
Seeking top-notch burlesque? Then head to The Two Brewers in Clapham for Clandestine Cabaret. Expect live performances from the likes of ZeeZee Stardust to Aya L'Storm, alongside a roster of video entertainment, including comedy, drag or musical theatre.
One of the best places to watch burlesque, The London Cabaret Club have a jam-packed agenda of sizzling performances and impressive events to choose from. Have your socks knocked off by their slick choreography, incredible food and brilliant music.
@ Kibele Restaurant & Bar on Friday 3rd January 2025 and 41 other Fridays
Come down to Kibele Restaurant & Bar's Party & Entertainment Friday! on Great Portland Street to be dazzled by live performances, including DJ sets, belly dancing, and sizzling burlesque shows, all unfolding in a trendy and snug setting. Here, you'll get to enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, cocktails, and a delectable array of dishes starting at just £34.90 per person.
