3 Best Performing Arts Venues in London, England

A glamorous contemporary art fair, Frieze London brings the crème de la crème of the international art world to London each October. Its sister show, Frieze Masters, is a 15-minute walk across Regent's Park and focuses on art from the ancient world through the late 20th century. For the two events combined, hundreds of galleries exhibiting thousands of artworks—everything from old masters to Rachel Whiteread—fill two huge pop-up spaces in the park. The food and drink available on-site are pricey but excellent, and there's a compelling program of artist and curator talks. Catch the free Frieze Sculpture Park in Regent's Park between July and October.

Running from April to throughout the summer, Underbelly offers a packed calendar of stand-up comedy, cabaret, and circus from its pop-up location in Cavendish Square, just north of Oxford Street. The range of shows caters to all ages, from family-friendly daytime events to risqué after-hours parties. Shows take place in a self-contained, inflatable, cow-shaped venue (hence the name of the festival). Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day. There's also a sister festival in Earl's Court.

This eight-week extravaganza of fringe theater and stand-up comedy is a chance to see some of the United Kingdom's most innovative and engaging performers. The atmosphere in the eerie tunnels beneath Waterloo Station (where the festival takes place) is always buzzing.