The recently refurbished Curzon in Bloomsbury – formerly The Renoir – specialises in arthouse films, which the intimate setting lends itself to perfectly. Think snug screening rooms, plush chairs to sink into and a cosy bar – the ideal place to feel cultured while deliberating over the latest foreign cinematography or indie film, glass of wine in hand. Read more...

This independent central London cinema is the ultimate destination for film lovers. It screens a whole variety of films and runs “seasons”, grouped by director, actor, genre, year or franchise. The Prince Charles doesn’t play by the usual cinema rules – a sing-a-long screening or an all-nighter movie marathon is nothing out of the ordinary. Missed a new release film Read more...

The Institute of Contemporary Arts is a members’ organisation dedicated to the promotion of and engagement with radical art and culture. Renowned for supporting independent film, their cinema programme is brimming with new independent releases, repertory titles, classic art house flicks and artists’ films. Alongside screenings, movie-goers will also find a vibrant programme of exhibitions, talks, debates and other events Read more...

Originally a cinema and entertainment centre opened in 1906, the building was transformed into its most famous incarnation – a recording studio – in 1966. Over the following 30 years some of the most recognisable British songs of all time were recorded there – from The Beatles’ All You Need Is Love to the Spice Girls’ Wannabe – before the Read more...

As part of the Institut Français, the Ciné Lumière champions French, European and World cinema. The art-deco venue showcases a variety of new-releases, repertory films, and special screenings with director Q&A events afterwards. Sunday French Classics screenings are a weekend highlight, regularly revisiting some of the greatest French cinema flicks. In short, the Lumière is a must-visit destination for foreign Read more...

As the first destination in the UK to show moving pictures to a paying audience, this Regent Street venue has garnered a reputation as the birthplace of British cinema. After closing in the Eighties, the institution re-opened last summer and is now fully restored, screening a wonderful mixture of classics, experimental films, retrospectives and documentaries. Keep checking the programme to Read more...

Housed in a restored cinema auditorium that dates back to 1911, the Electric has become something of a landmark in West London. Alongside the deliciously comfortable leather armchairs (with foot stools and side tables no less – or if you prefer to recline, opt for one of six front row-beds) the cinema serves up a varied listings programme encompassing current Read more...

Hidden away on a cul-de-sac road in Hampstead, the original Everyman cinema is instantly recognizable from its retro-style sign. Plush seating and in-cinema table service transforms a trip to the movies into an intimate, lavish experience. Its Belsize Park sister venue (kitted out with leather reclining seating) is just down the road, and screens alternative options should your film of Read more...

Despite what the name suggests, this is not an alfresco affair. In fact, few places boast as snug an atmosphere as this Islington Green (the real reason behind its title) cinema for film watching. With sofas made for two, and table service directly to your seats, this is dream date territory. Read more...

Lucky old Whitechapel, having the Genesis as its local. This gorgeous cinema is cheap for tickets, beautifully refurbished and a treat if you want to fill your face. Read more...