1 / 3Barbican Cinemas
📍 London, Greater London
Three screens showing mainstream releases, arthouse films, documentaries, and festival programming inside the Barbican Centre. Young Barbican membership gives ages 16-25 access to heavily discounted tickets.
If you're between 16-25, This is the best place to watch a movie in Central London. By signing up for free with Young Barbican, I was able to watch Marty Supreme which was just released days ago for £6 on a Sunday. This is unheard of in Central London where tickets now cost atleast £15 on weekends. Not only that, the general vibe of the Barbican Centre is unmatched with its retro but timeless feel. The staff were also very nice and printed my tickets (for my collection) upon my request. Seats were comfortable enough though ads do run a bit long around 15-20 minutes. Cinema 1 which is located somewhat underground also has connectivity issues which my be an issue if there were to be an incident. All in all, I love coming here not only for cheap movies but also the atmosphere. Walking around the lake after watching a great movie is such bliss.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children and teens, particularly those aged 16-25 who can join Young Barbican for significantly reduced ticket costs. The programming diversity suits families who want arthouse or documentary titles alongside blockbusters.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →680 Google reviews
Fahrinnor Riduannor
3 months ago
“If you're between 16-25, This is the best place to watch a movie in Central London. By signing up for free with Young Barbican, I was able to watch Marty Supreme which was just released days ago for £6 on a Sunday. This is unheard of in Central London where tickets now cost atleast £15 on weekends. Not only that, the general vibe of the Barbican Centre is unmatched with its retro but timeless feel. The staff were also very nice and printed my tickets (for my collection) upon my request. Seats were comfortable enough though ads do run a bit long around 15-20 minutes. Cinema 1 which is located somewhat underground also has connectivity issues which my be an issue if there were to be an incident. All in all, I love coming here not only for cheap movies but also the atmosphere. Walking around the lake after watching a great movie is such bliss.”
Caroline Blair
2 months ago
“What a fabulous venue. Came to see Twelfth Night. Got to admire the architecture of the wonderful Barbican Centre. Brought a packed lunch with me to enjoy before the matinee. There are lots of seats. There’s a great cloakroom too. Had a great seat in the stalls. For a three hour play this seat was very comfortable. Easy location for the tube too with a short walk from the Barbican station on the circle line.”
Simon Cooper
4 months ago
“Chic bar / foyer to welcome you, comfy seating and nice red wine. Super helpful staff. Most importantly, Screen 3 was very clean, with excellent leg room and great viewing. A thoroughly grown up cinema experience.”
Dorothy
a month ago
“Classic cinema style in iconic building. Good popcorn but seating is rather small without any space for your drink or popcorn”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Barbican Cinemas occupies three screens within the Barbican Centre, programming mainstream new releases alongside arthouse titles, documentary festivals, and live soundtrack events. Seating has excellent legroom. The cinema cafe and bar adjoin the main foyer. Adverts run for 20-25 minutes before screenings — a consistent point in reviews. Screen 1 is underground with sparse mobile signal. Young Barbican membership is free to join for ages 16-25 and unlocks discounted tickets.
