1 / 3Rio Cinema
📍 London, Greater London
Beloved independent cinema in Dalston celebrating 50 years, with curated film selections, 35mm screenings, and family programming including Bluey showings. Pram access, membership options, and regular filmmaker events available.
This is how I remember cinemas! Staff were amazing and very friendly. Definitely take the time to visit this place, even just for a snack or drink (or view the wall of VHS's) . Hopefully this place will get some investment and go on for years to come as its a hidden gem
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children who appreciate independent cinema over multiplex chains. The intimate art deco setting and curated programming offer a distinct experience. Seating is more compact than modern cinemas, and heating can be inconsistent — layers recommended for evening screenings.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,023 Google reviews
Jay IOW
3 months ago
“This is how I remember cinemas! Staff were amazing and very friendly. Definitely take the time to visit this place, even just for a snack or drink (or view the wall of VHS's) . Hopefully this place will get some investment and go on for years to come as its a hidden gem”
Simon Wharton
3 months ago
“Sobering to think I’ve been coming here for over a quarter of a century now! Remains what it always been in that time: a lovely, art deco, independent cinema with a slightly off centre vibe and inclusive ethos. Film selection ranges from some of the latest biggest releases (we saw Marty Supreme on Saturday), classics and more niche offerings. Bar has a decent enough selection of drinks and snacks and whilst the two level main screen is resolutely old-school in layout and seating it remains a great place to see a film (especially on a packed Saturday night). Organisation can be at its limit on a busy night with queues for bag check and bar - but it all works and the waits are never disruptive. If you like what’s on then a much better experience than the Picturehouse and a younger more Indy vibe than the Castle.”
Rosi Petkova
a year ago
“The Rio Cinema in Dalston is a charming old movie theatre with a wonderful old-school atmosphere that reflects the history of the area. The location is perfect and easy to get to.The main auditorium has retained many original features, giving it a unique and nostalgic vibe. The staff were friendly, and the movie selection is an excellent mix of mainstream and independent films. I saw a great independent film during my visit, and the seats were comfortable. The popcorn and drinks are reasonably priced. The toilets were clean but a bit small and need renovation. While it’s a lovely experience overall, there’s room for some modern updates to enhance the comfort. That said, the Rio is a gem for movie lovers and well worth a visit!”
B A
2 months ago
“Love an independent cinema! Incredible staff, nice drinks choice. I feel like their salty popcorn is one of the best out there. Only issue is that they had the heating off during the screening and it was absolutely freezing…not fun to be in a coat and a beanie whilst watching a film.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Rio Cinema is an independent art deco cinema in Hackney with a loyal local following. It shows a curated mix of mainstream releases and independent films, runs special 35mm screenings, and offers family-specific programming. A bar area serves drinks before screenings, there is pram access, and director Q&A events are held regularly as part of its anniversary programme.
