The UK boasts an exceptional array of cinemas offering their own unique elements but for this article we’re stepping away from the norm, the Vue’s, Odeon’s and Cineworld chain branches and focusing on some of the more finer establishments in the UK cinema landscape that I’ve had the pleasure to visit.
We have curated a list of some of the finest cinemas in the UK (not all of them) as they all promise an unforgettable movie-watching experience where such novelties as 4DX and Screen-X do not exist.
The Electric Cinema – Birmingham, West Midlands
Located in Birmingham The Electric Cinema stands as one of the oldest working cinemas in the country dating back to 1909.
With a vintage charm the cinema combines history with contemporary comfort with standard cinema seats accompanied by plush sofa style seating at the back with individual tables.
The simple option of just being able to order drinks and food to your seat is a wonderful luxury which certainly embodies a more opulent movie experience for those wishing to visit The Electric Cinema in Birmingham.
Immerse yourself in a section of films from independent films to blockbusters amongst the venue’s iconic architectural setting.
I really enjoy cinemas that have sofas in them, it offers that unique comfort within a cinema as opposed to old fashioned and rather uncomfortable seats that are awash up and down the country.
If my bums in comfort I’m going to enjoy the film more no matter how terrible it may or may not be!
Curzon Mayfair – London
Nestled in the heart of London, the Curzon Mayfair embodies sophistication and cinematic elegance.
Luxurious Art Deco interior oozes from this theatre with a curated selection of arthouse films and international cinema displayed in a regal manner.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology the Cursor Mayfair screens films in perfect visual clarity and each of the screenings rooms are very intimate to allow the venues impeccable service to feel more exclusive and private.
It’s certainly a more refined movie experience and the Curzon Mayfair is certainly a little bit too on the posh side for this lad from Stoke on Trent to attend.
I think I’ll just stick to my nachos and popcorn accidentally spilling on the floor as opposed to the heart attack inducing experience I would receive should I ever spill something at any of the cinemas hereby discussed in this article.
The Cameo – Edinburgh, Scotland
The Cameo cinema boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1914 as this beloved cinema provides a wonderful mix of mainstream, independent and foreign language films.
With an imitate ambience and cozy seating The Cameo is the go-to cinema for film enthusiasts along with some vibrant community events the cinema is a beloved fixture in Scotland’s cinematic landscape.
Opera and theatre shows are screened live and direct from stages around the world at The Cameo and with a host of impressive cafes, bars and restaurants on site they really do cater for everyone from burgers to superfood salads, coffees to cocktails.
Everyman Cinema – Bristol, South West England
I have a soft spot for Everyman Cinema up and down the country with Birmingham being my own personal cinema muse.
I’ll never forget attending a Universal end of year slate presentation at the Everyman Cinema and so comfy were the seats (and also the quite dull presentation may have been at fault here) that I nodded off into a world of my own for the first time ever in a cinema.
Everyman offers more than just a movie-watching experience it’s a hang out spot, it’s a bar, it’s a stylish and vibrant environment where plush sofas and armchairs reign supreme in the screens.
The bars serve incredible snacks and cocktails that can be taken to your seats within the cinema.
Everyman Cinemas are vastly underrated and are a very classy and stylish way to kick back, relax and watch the latest cinema offering.
Have you also noticed that the majority of posh cinemas have exactly the same plainly designed logos. I think I might be onto something here.
Tyneside Cinema – Newcastle upon Tyne, North East England
Situated in Newcastle upon Tyne, the Tyneside Cinema stands as a beacon of cultural significance. Operating since 1937, this cinema exudes an inviting atmosphere and hosts an eclectic array of films, including classics, documentaries, and contemporary releases.
With its commitment to fostering community engagement through film-related workshops, discussions, and events, the Tyneside Cinema offers patrons an immersive and inclusive cinematic experience.
The cinema is approaching 100 years old and from guests, members and stakeholders is still going strong after all this time.
The BFI Southbank – London
Another cinema I have a soft spot for is the iconic BFI Southbank cinema with the BFI IMAX screen just down the road which hosted the Prop Store live auction where millions of pounds of movie props and memorabilia went on public display before going under the hammer.
Those were the good days! It’s not everyday you can stroll into a cinema and see Batman costumes worn on screen, Willy Wonka props, Predator props and even Marty McFly’s hoverboard used in Back to the Future II!
The British Film Institute (BFI) Southbank in London is a haven for film aficionados. Boasting a vast film archive and multiple screening rooms, this venue celebrates the rich heritage of British and international cinema.
From retrospectives to premieres, the BFI Southbank offers an extensive program catering to diverse cinematic tastes. Additionally, its onsite library and exhibitions add an educational dimension to the movie-watching experience, making it a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts.
Glasgow Film Theatre – Glasgow, Scotland
A staple of the Scottish cinema landscape since 1939 the Glasgow Film Theatre is an independently run cinema which hosts a lovely diverse range of films from arthouse to cult classics and international releases.
With modern facilities and dedication with regards to supporting upcoming filmmakers this cinema is a cornerstone of Glasgow’s vibrant arts scene.
The Ritzy – London
Another Picture House cinema located in Brixton, The Ritzy is a beloved cinema steeped in community engagement and cultural significance.
Offering a mix of mainstream, independent, and world cinema, this venue stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to inclusivity.
The Ritzy’s diverse programming, including film festivals and live events, contributes to its status as a cultural hotspot, attracting a diverse audience eager to experience the magic of cinema.
Soho House
The most exclusive cinema on this list (in my eyes) as Soho House is a private members club cinema that was only made available for us to visit due to us attending the BAFTA awards and the PR company behind the visit was able to get this exclusive and rather suave venue.
Consisting of one screen and one screen only the rest of the building is a private bar for the rich and famous (usually) and most famously known for where Prince Harry met Meghan (allegedly).
Soho House is available for private hire but memberships start at £100 a month where you can access the entire buildings facilities including bars, library and more.
It’s a regal house where fancy food was served up like no tomorrow and the only cinema that I’ve ever eaten Caviar in!
This 43-seater cinema is the pinnacle of oppulence and I have been honoured (purely from running this website) to have graced this screening room twice in my lifetime and I can’t imagine there will ever be a third again!
We hope you have enjoyed this list of the finest cinemas in the UK, if there are any that you feel should be added to the list feel free to get in touch with your recommendations and we’ll be sure to consider them to add to the article!
