London isn’t just the home to all things overpriced, it’s also home to some of the most beautiful cinemas this country has to offer. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favourites, all of which are the perfect, romantic setting for Valentine’ Day, because nothing says love like spending two hours in the dark, staring at a screen, trying to pinch all the cheesy nachos before your loved one nabs them. Lack of communication jokes aside, a trip to the cinema on V-Day is the perfect way to unwind and is probably the only time you can convince your significant other to watch that film they’ve desperately been trying not to.
West London
Electric Cinema in Notting Hill
(191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED)
Stepping into the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill is like stepping into another world. The cinema is over 100-years-old and every inch of its decor breathes luxury. The cinema seats are individual red leather armchairs that come with their own leather footstool and cashmere blanket. For those really wanting to impress, for up to £36 (£18pp) you can opt for one of the six double beds that make up the screen’s front row. The cinema is adjacent to the Electric Diner which serves tasty diner food till late so you can head next door for a bite to eat before or after your film.
South/ South West London
Exhibit Cinema at Exhibit Bar/Restaurant in Balham
(12 Balham Station Road, London, SW12 9SG)
This buzzing bar & restaurant is home to London’s smallest independent cinema. It’s made up of only 12 two-seater leather sofas which are adorned with cushions for extra comfort so expect cosy, intimate settings if you decide to visit. With super friendly staff, great vibes, a bar and restaurant on the ground floor and a terrace on the 1st, this place is practically perfect for Valentine’s Day. Seats aren’t allocated so make sure to arrive early to avoid sitting in the front row or prepare for at least 90+ minutes of uncomfortable viewing and a slight crick in your neck. I’m talking from experience.
East London
(93-95 Mile End Rd, London E1 4UJ)
For those of you wanting a luxury cinema experience at an affordable price, look no further. This East London treat houses two luxury cinema screens (Studio 4 & 5) so you’ll be spoilt for choice on what to watch. Ticket prices start from only £9 so you won’t need to remortgage your flat to pay for your seats. The staff are lovely and the cinema has its own bar & restaurant which serves delicious food, including veggie-friendly pie and vegan pizza.
North/ North West/ Central London
If you’re familiar with Everyman cinemas you know that their comfy twin-seats and fancy decor make any of their branches the ultimate setting for Valentine’s Day. If you weren’t familiar with Everyman, you’ll be glad you are now. It may not be the cheapest of the cinemas (individual ticket prices can be upwards of £17) but what it lacks in affordability it makes up for in experience. Sitting in their plush, velvety cinema seats and snacking on their American diner-style bar food while watching the newest blockbuster is an experience like no other. There are branches dotted all over Central, North West and North London, with their most well-known probably being Screen on the Green in Islington (pictured).
Various spots in London
Premiere/VIP Seats at your local cinema
Not everyone has the cash to splash on Valentine’s Day and there’s nothing wrong with that. Lucky for you it falls on a Wednesday so if you’ve made a qualifying insurance purchase using Compare the Market within the past year, you can treat yourself to 2-4-1 tickets at your local participating cinema. Click here to discover which of your nearest cinemas participate in this offer. Spend the saved cash on a large glass of Vino or some nachos. Hell, go all out and buy some overpriced sweet pouches if you fancy.
iT'S FILM...DUH 