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Cinemas and Movies in London

Information on where and how to find full listings of what's on at the movies today, and in the near future. Where to find out what's showing in London and how to book your seat at the cinema.

London has many multiplex cinemas each with several screens. There are also a number of independent and art house cinemas, some of which show foreign-language films. Many film premieres are shown at cinemas in Leicester Square. In general, new films are released on a Friday.

For a full list of London cinemas and contact details, see The AngloFILE: Movies, Cinemas & Films

Some cinemas have VIP seating with personal sound system and a drinks service to the seat.

The websites of the multiplex cinema chains have information on films showing, forthcoming films and their trailers.

London has an IMAX screen at BFI IMAX, South Bank. IMAX films are large image format and high resolution for maximum visual impact. The screen measures 20m high by 26m wide and the theatre can seat up to 500 people.

BFI Southbank
At: Belvedere Road, South Bank, London, SE1 8XT
Website

Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent body that rates films; local authorities are responsible for what is shown in cinemas.

The BBFC classifies films as follows:

U - Universal, for all ages
PG - Parental guidance, some scenes may be unsuitable for children under 8
12A - Children under the age of 12 are only admitted if accompanied by an adult, some scenes may be unsuitable for under 12s
12 - Only suitable for those aged 12 and over
15 - Only suitable for those aged 15 and over
18 - For adults only
R18 - Restricted 18, for adults only. R18 films may only be shown at licensed cinemas

Tickets

Tickets can be bought at the cinema or online.

Regular movie goers can buy unlimited access passes from some cinemas (sometimes called "Unlimited Card" or "Première Club") . For a fixed price per month or per year, cinema card holders get unlimited access to certain screenings or cinemas. Some 3D films may incur an extra charge.