Whilst IMAX cinemas are certainly becoming more and more popular there are a few that stand out from all the rest when it comes to those we have personally visited, in today’s article I’ll discuss what I feel are the best IMAX cinemas in the UK.
With the announcement of Blackpool’s first IMAX cinema opening next month, I pondered over all of the other IMAX cinemas I’ve visited and what experiences I’ve had at every single one.
Some are mind-blowing and fully capture what was originally intended by its creators whilst others feel very cramped resulting in a poor viewing experience.
Finding the right seat in a cinema is essential and if you need some help with that we did a little article about finding the best seat for the best viewing experience right here on Back to the Movies.
From screen size, sound quality, comfort and overall experience we have listed a few of our favourite IMAX cinemas in no particular order!
BFI IMAX, London
Measuring over 20 metres high and 26 metres wide the BFI IMAX in London is the biggest IMAX screen in the country offering an immersive experience.
You’d never believe that an underground station would be located directly underneath the screen but with anti-vibration technology within the cinema it’s just you and the film you’re watching with zero distractions.
The BFI IMAX used to be home to the Prop Store of London auctions where rare TV and film memorabilia would go under the hammer.
Before the items went to auction there would be lavish displays of movie memorabilia that would sell for a fortune at the cinema to clients all across the world.
Once upon a time, Zak Bagans from Ghost Adventures won numerous costumes and items from Ghostbusters and they’re now on display within his Haunted Museum in Las Vegas.
Science Museum IMAX, London
This 400-seater IMAX cinema in the Science Museum in London has had a major revamp making it even better than before!
With a screen the size of four double-decker buses the cinema is home to many a blockbuster and large-scale conference.
You can hire the IMAX screen should you ever need it and in the heart of an already incredible attraction this IMAX screen is one not to be missed!
Odeon Trafford Centre, Manchester
Moving things up north and closer to home is the Odeon Trafford Centre IMAX screen.
Located perfectly within one of the best shopping centres in the country the IMAX is spacious and offers a superb experience.
The amenities make this cinema one to visit with a crazy golf place next door, an arcade and bowling alley just downstairs and a food court that will have you spoiled for choice about what meal to grab before or after your movie.
Vue Printworks IMAX, Manchester
I was debating whether or not to include this particular IMAX screen in the line-up because some of the seats towards the front are far too close to the giant IMAX screen.
If you like your neck and spine in the same condition as when you walked into the cinema then I’d suggest sitting on the middle seats or getting yourself towards the back.
The screen feels as though it has been shoved into the space rather than the space designed around the screen but I cannot leave it off the list.
When it was once an Odeon the Printworks cinema also had a great VIP offering which included a private lounge, balcony viewing in addition to snacks and drinks all included.
Vue took over the Odeon and I believe they still had this experience although I’m not entirely sure if it’s something they still offer as they never really advertised it after Vue took over from the Odeon chain.
You can check out our VIP Printworks review from many years ago HERE
Cineworld Birmingham NEC, Birmingham
A lovely cinema, the Cineworld Birmingham NEC is in the heart of a lovely little complex where you can explore Resorts World and all they have to offer and just a stone’s throw away from the Bear Grylls Adventure.
Spacious seating with cutting-edge IMAX technology makes this cinema an absolute gem to visit!
Cineworld Leicester Square, London
The home of many a movie press screening the Cineworld Leicester Square location is a perfect IMAX screen nestled in the heart of movie and theatre land.
Cineworld Leicester Square is also home to Frightfest which is a horror film festival that takes place every year celebrating all the upcoming horror titles from some of the biggest names in the business.
Cineworld Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes
Near Stadium MK the IMAX in Milton Keynes has some comfortable seats and some of the friendliest staff members I’ve ever encountered when walking into a cinema.
Everyone genuinely looks as though they enjoy working there.
Cineworld always play an advert before the film shows about working for Cineworld and everyone has this plastered smile on their face, they all must work at Cineworld Milton Keynes, they must do!
Cineworld Broughton, Wales
On a retail park full of all sorts of shops and eateries I enjoy visiting the Cineworld Broughton, it’s on the border between England and Wales and is a stone’s throw from Chester.
Showcase Cinema de Lux, Bristol
It seems to be Cineworld soaking up all the love for IMAX in this article but I can’t leave Showcase Cinema off the list here.
I prefer Showcase Cinemas to Odeon and Cineworld ironically enough, I’m a sucker for the Vue recliner chairs but Showcase certainly has some lovely little recliners of their own.
Very comfortable and conveniently located the Showcase Cinema de Lux in Bristol is certainly a cracking IMAX cinema to visit!
Vue, Cheshire Oaks
If you want a cinema that is a star in its own movie then look no further than the Vue IMAX cinema in Cheshire Oaks.
The cinema was the setting for the 2014 horror movie The Last Showing starring Robert Englund (Freddy Krueger in Nightmare on Elm Street) as a cinema worker appalled at the state of the current cinema scene, is fired from a movie theatre.
Determined to make his mark on the world and shoot his own horror film, he trapped a couple inside a cinema and begins recording.
Well worth a watch if you haven’t seen it already!
The Backlot Cinema, Blackpool
A testament to Blackpool entertainment in every way shape and form as The Backlot combines beautiful restaurant quality food with a real fan-service for all things movies.
The plush cinema seats combined with the variety of promotions they do for each film (including unique popcorn buckets and merchandise, not to mention meet and greets) is a testament to what a cinema should be.
A community hub for all the locals to enjoy and the venue is stunning. They deserve a place on this list!
Missed our review of The Backlot? CLICK HERE
These cinemas have been selected based on their reputation, screen size, sound quality, and overall customer satisfaction.
However, it’s essential to check the latest reviews and updates before making up your own mind.
This article is relevant to me at the time of writing but times change, facilities change and personal factors all play into making your own mind up when choosing your next IMAX experience!
