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Cinemas

The Garden Cinema

📍 London, Greater London

4.8(485 Google reviews)💰Free-$15👶All ages

Independent cinema in Covent Garden specialising in international, classic, and independent films. Intimate screening rooms with luxury seating, a bar area, director retrospective seasons, and regular filmmaker Q&As.

Curated film seasonsPlush seatingIntimate roomsArt deco interiorPassionate staffIndependent cinema
★★★★★Featured review by Sarah

BEST MOVIE THEATRE IN LONDON! STELLAR EXPERIENCE! I've been here twice and both times were amazing. The chairs are SO PLUSH and SO COMFY, I could take a nap hahaha. The actual screening rooms are quite cozy themselves, only a few rows of seats but that's kinda perfect. The atmosphere in the lobby and bar area is super cool, I can totally imagine hosting a themed party of some kind. Definitely come early to have a drink and look around. The second time I went was for a family movie, and they have a special program to make those movies affordable by allowing everybody to choose between different price points to pay. I chose to pay at the highest price because I support great movie theatre experiences. Highly recommend this spot for your next movie in London!

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for families with teens who appreciate film beyond mainstream blockbusters. The curated seasons offer films unavailable in multiplexes, and the intimate atmosphere rewards those who want a proper cinematic experience.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Arrive early to enjoy the bar and art deco lobby before your screening
If online booking gives trouble, call reception directly — staff resolve issues quickly
🎟️Check the current season before visiting — programming changes regularly and features films not available elsewhere
🚗Screening rooms are intimate with fewer rows than a multiplex — every seat has a good sightline

💬 What Families Are Saying

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4.8

485 Google reviews

Curated seasonal programming35%
Comfortable luxury seating30%
Intimate screening rooms20%
Art deco bar and lobby15%
S

Sarah

a month ago

BEST MOVIE THEATRE IN LONDON! STELLAR EXPERIENCE! I've been here twice and both times were amazing. The chairs are SO PLUSH and SO COMFY, I could take a nap hahaha. The actual screening rooms are quite cozy themselves, only a few rows of seats but that's kinda perfect. The atmosphere in the lobby and bar area is super cool, I can totally imagine hosting a themed party of some kind. Definitely come early to have a drink and look around. The second time I went was for a family movie, and they have a special program to make those movies affordable by allowing everybody to choose between different price points to pay. I chose to pay at the highest price because I support great movie theatre experiences. Highly recommend this spot for your next movie in London!

K

K K

6 months ago

This is, without a doubt, my favorite cinema in London. What sets it apart are its brilliantly curated seasons, each with a unique theme and accompanied by stunningly creative promotional art. It's a treasure trove for film lovers, offering a chance to see classic Hong Kong and Taiwanese films and even rarely-screened banned movies. The ambiance is sophisticated, and I have a particular weakness for the delicious olives served at their bar. A truly unique cinematic experience.

M

Matty

a month ago

We went to see 'No other choice' by Park Chan-Wook because it isn't out yet in Belgium. We had difficulties with booking seats through the website so we called the reception, they were very kind and helped us as best as they could! Loved the personal introduction before the movie started, gorgeous interior, and a cozy cinema! Would recommend in a heartbeat!

G

Guillermo Escuder

2 months ago

The TRUE cinema going experience (beer included). We had the opportunity to watch a Ken Loach retrospective, we didn’t understand the glasgow accent (i’m from spain) BUT it was worth it just for the vibes and the amazing staff. Truley passionate and cinephile crew. Joe, if you are reading this big hughs from barcelona. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Reviews from Google

Overview

The Garden Cinema screens international, classic, and independent films in intimate rooms with plush seating. Programming runs in curated director seasons and retrospectives — Hong Kong cinema, Ken Loach, Park Chan-Wook — rather than mainstream releases. A bar and lobby area provide a sophisticated pre-film experience. Staff are passionate and knowledgeable about programming. Private hire available for special screenings.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday09:30 – 20:00
Tuesday12:30 – 21:30
Wednesday12:30 – 21:30
Thursday12:30 – 21:30
Friday12:30 – 21:30
Saturday12:30 – 22:30
Sunday09:30 – 22:30

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