Chic & Boutique: A Guide to London’s Best Cinemas
Waiter service, footrests, beds...? London’s boutique cinemas are leading the charge against the high street chains – here are five of London’s most unique.
The earliest picture houses, with their striking façades, ornate interiors and names referencing that most novel of inventions - electricity - suggested a side helping of pomp along with the movie feature. However, fast-forward to the present day and much of the original romance of going to the cinema has been diluted by multiplexes and the rise of home streaming services. But, like the underdog who turns hero in the final reel, some of London’s best cinemas are fighting back; from cosy enclaves with waiter service like the Electric Cinema to iconic edifices like the Ciné Lumière, we explore the chic and boutique cinemas that know there’s much more to a night at the pictures than a two-for-one ticket to the latest blockbuster and a box of popcorn.
CINÉ LUMIÈRE
This screening room in the Grade II-listed Art Deco L’Institut Français tends to have a bias towards French and European releases but here’s something you might not expect - located in South Kensington, not far from Exhibition Row, Ciné Lumière augments its comfy seating and stylish ambience with its very own original Rodin sculpture in the lobby.
PICTUREHOUSE CENTRAL
The latest addition to the Picturehouse family, it has quickly established itself among London’s best cinemas. Conceived as the independent chain’s flagship, it sits proudly on the site of an old Cineworld in Piccadilly Circus. The cinema has had a suitably stylish overhaul with a grand staircase replacing the former entrance, doing away with the infamous escalator ride in the process. The screens have been made larger too and, like other Picturehouse cinemas, there’s plenty of legroom. The cinema also features a member’s bar, gallery space and rooftop terrace.
CURZON MAYFAIR
Like its sister cinema on Shaftesbury Avenue, the striking Grade II-listed Curzon Mayfair attracts a dedicated crowd of film lovers who praise the program here above all others. The bar is well-stocked and, thankfully, you can take your beverage in with you. Look out for the original features in the main screen, including two Royal Boxes, while those fond of modern comforts can rely on plenty of spacious seating and luxurious amenities.
ELECTRIC CINEMA
The Electric Cinema on Portobello Road is one of the oldest working cinemas in Britain, featuring in the first crop of purpose-built cinemas to land in London. Nowadays, the real selling point is the chic ambiance and fantastic roster of films, as well as the luxurious facilities. Not only does the Electric boast waiter service and deluxe seating, there’s also a selection of beds for those who really want to settle in.
THE SCREEN ON THE GREEN
Part of an independent network of boutique cinemas, The Screen on the Green in Islington is a one-screen movie house with a loyal fan base of locals. Originally opened in 1913, TSOTG is one of the oldest continually-running cinemas in London. At night, the glowing neon façade certainly captures the theatre of the early purpose-built cinemas, but step inside and the ostensibly vintage auditorium will impress with its modern touches. Opt for the premium upgrade and treat yourself to a luxurious sofa with leg rests.
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