Photo of BFI Southbank in Greater London1 / 3
Cinemas

BFI Southbank

πŸ“ London, Greater London

β˜…4.6(3,093 Google reviews)πŸ‘ΆAll ages

Four screens showing classic, contemporary, and independent films seven days a week, plus the free BFI Mediatheque with access to over 180,000 archive titles. Riverside venue with dining, a library, and regular festivals.

βœ“ Film enthusiastsβœ“ Classic screensβœ“ Diverse programmingβœ“ Riverside locationβœ“ 25-and-Under pricingβœ“ Cultural events
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Louise Woodhams

Always a delight to visit this temple to cinema. Suitably spooky for Halloween was the only cinema showing a horror film for Halloween we hadn't seen.

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for families with older children and teens who are genuinely interested in film culture beyond mainstream releases. The 25-and-Under pricing makes it accessible for teenage film fans. The classic cinema environment and curated programming suit families who treat a cinema visit as a cultural event rather than entertainment filler.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘25 and Under tickets are available for most screenings at a significant discount β€” worth checking before booking full price
⏰Drinks purchased at the bar can be taken into the screening
🎟️The free BFI Mediatheque requires no ticket and is open during venue hours β€” worth a visit on its own
πŸš—NFT1 offers the best technical experience if you have a choice of screen

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.6
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3,093 Google reviews

Excellent programming diversity40%
High quality screens and sound30%
Great cultural atmosphere20%
Good value with age-based discounts10%
L

Louise Woodhams

4 months ago

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β€œAlways a delight to visit this temple to cinema. Suitably spooky for Halloween was the only cinema showing a horror film for Halloween we hadn't seen.”

J

Jett L

3 months ago

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β€œHad an amazing experience watching the brilliant film Pillion, great place for film enthusiasts. Grab a drink and enjoy your date/films.”

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Fox Steve

6 months ago

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β€œBFI Southbank was one of my favorite cinema of London. As a cinema and cultural hub, it offers so much more than just watching a film. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and the sense that this is a true home for film lovers. The cinema screens are comfortable and well-designed, with excellent sound and picture quality (especially NFT1). What makes BFI Southbank special is the diversity of its programming. You can find everything from classic films and rare archival screenings to independent features and international cinema. It feels like a place where film history and modern creativity come together. I also appreciated the educational and cultural aspects. The exhibitions and events provide a deeper understanding of cinema, and the staff are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. The BFI library and mediatheque are treasures for anyone who wants to explore film heritage more deeply. On top of that, the location on the South Bank is perfectβ€”right by the river, surrounded by other cultural landmarks. The bar and cafΓ© are great spots to relax before or after a film, and the overall experience feels both inspiring and enjoyable. In short, BFI Southbank is not just a cinema, but a cultural institution that celebrates film in all its forms. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting London, whether you are a casual moviegoer or a serious cinephile.”

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Joseph Duffy

2 months ago

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β€œLoved it! First time going to see a film here, the 25 and Under passing let's you get Β£4 tickets to almost any screening and it is such brilliant value for money. The screen and seating is like a proper classic cinema, and makes the experience so much better (and comfier!). No modern popcorn machines etc but you can buy drinks at the bar and bring them in as well as bar snacks (they do sell bags of popcorn with their crisps selection). Will 1000% be returning”

Reviews from Google

Overview

BFI Southbank sits on the South Bank of the Thames near Waterloo. NFT1 delivers the best picture and sound of the four screens. The free Mediatheque lets visitors browse the national film archive without a ticket. The bar allows drinks inside screenings. Regular events, guest Q&As, and film festivals run throughout the year alongside standard programming.

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