1 / 3Prince Charles Cinema
π Greater London
Leicester Square indie cinema celebrated for cult films, 35mm and 70mm screenings, and annual sing-along events including Muppet Christmas Carol. Two screens with distinct atmospheres; bar on site.
This is one of my favorite cinemas to visit in London. It has a lovely old-school charm that makes it stand out from the usual modern multiplexes. The atmosphere feels relaxed and nostalgic, perfect for anyone who enjoys cinema in its classic form. One small thing to note is the seating. If you are on the shorter side, it can be tricky to find a spot where your view is not blocked by the person in front of you. I would recommend sitting somewhere in the middle, closer to the front rather than too far back, because the screen is smaller than you might expect for a large cinema. Once you find the right seat, though, it is a comfortable and enjoyable experience. I once attended their Lord of the Rings marathon they do them every month and itβs a full house with a fun vibe, which started at 9 p.m. and went through the night until 9 a.m. They played the extended cuts, which was impressive but quite a challenge to sit through. I made it to about 1 a.m. before calling it a night, but it was still a fun experience and shows how much effort they put into curating special events. What I like most about this cinema is its variety. They regularly screen older films, interesting independent titles, and classics that you might not have had the chance to see on the big screen before. It is a refreshing change from the mainstream cinemas nearby in Leicester Square, which often all show the same new releases. They also offer a membership that brings the ticket price down, which is a great option if you plan to visit often. Overall, it is a charming, character-filled cinema that keeps film-going special, especially for those who appreciate timeless and unique screenings.
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children and teens who appreciate film culture beyond the mainstream multiplex. Sing-along screenings are genuinely joyful shared events. Younger children may find the seating uncomfortable and the audience energy unpredictable during special events.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β3,803 Google reviews
S J
4 months ago
βThis is one of my favorite cinemas to visit in London. It has a lovely old-school charm that makes it stand out from the usual modern multiplexes. The atmosphere feels relaxed and nostalgic, perfect for anyone who enjoys cinema in its classic form. One small thing to note is the seating. If you are on the shorter side, it can be tricky to find a spot where your view is not blocked by the person in front of you. I would recommend sitting somewhere in the middle, closer to the front rather than too far back, because the screen is smaller than you might expect for a large cinema. Once you find the right seat, though, it is a comfortable and enjoyable experience. I once attended their Lord of the Rings marathon they do them every month and itβs a full house with a fun vibe, which started at 9 p.m. and went through the night until 9 a.m. They played the extended cuts, which was impressive but quite a challenge to sit through. I made it to about 1 a.m. before calling it a night, but it was still a fun experience and shows how much effort they put into curating special events. What I like most about this cinema is its variety. They regularly screen older films, interesting independent titles, and classics that you might not have had the chance to see on the big screen before. It is a refreshing change from the mainstream cinemas nearby in Leicester Square, which often all show the same new releases. They also offer a membership that brings the ticket price down, which is a great option if you plan to visit often. Overall, it is a charming, character-filled cinema that keeps film-going special, especially for those who appreciate timeless and unique screenings.β
pridenixon
2 months ago
βNo other cinema like it in London or anywhere else in the UK as far as I know. Love the atmosphere of the cinema downstairs gives old school grindehouse vibes and upstairs more classy modern atmosphere. Great variety of films shown something for everyone. And by far the best thing about the cinema is the no nonsense attitude towards phones can people seriously not go a couple hours without looking at there phones.β
Tris Reid-Smith
3 months ago
βMore than a cinema, this is a part of London's culture. Famous for cult films, classics and moments of pure joy like their annual sing-a-long screenings of Muppet Christmas Carol. Bar serves alcohol alongside the sodas and popcorn. Staff are lovely. It's all a bit retro but that's the point.β
Awandja Ebhodaghe
5 months ago
βThis cinema hosted the best sing a long event I've ever attended! Will definitely attend more if they host other musicals of interest. The staff were also really lovelyβ
Reviews from Google
Overview
Prince Charles Cinema runs cult classics, retro films, and special sing-along screenings that turn the audience into part of the show. Two screens offer different vibes β the downstairs leans grindhouse, upstairs is more polished. Programming spans The Princess Bride, Amelie, and marathon cuts like Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair, with 35mm and 70mm formats in regular rotation.



