London’s 7 best independent cinemas

For the best London cinematic experience, ditch the multiplexes and head to one of the city’s dynamic, independent venues. From double bed cinema seats with cashmere blankets, to intimate, community-oriented venues, here are seven of the best.

Brixton Ritzy

This restored picturehouse is a much-loved part of the fabric of Brixton. It opened in 1911 as the ‘Electric Pavilion’ but was renamed ‘The Ritzy’ after a brief closure in 1976. Once it reopened, it quickly acquired a reputation for its young, political and social activist clientele; so much so that the manager had to place a local newspaper ad insisting that the cinema screened a variety of films, not just left wing material. With its early 20th-century edifice, high ceilings and red velvet seats, the old theatre building retains a sense of aged grandeur, while simultaneously staying relevant with modern blockbusters, arthouse films, comedy nights, live music, open mic events and creative workshops. Check into Marble Apartments Effra Court, just a 5-minute walk from the Ritzy.

BFI Southbank

The British Film Institute is a leading cultural hub for avid cinema-goers in London. It hosts the UK’s largest public annual film event – the BFI London Film Festival – every October. But even if you can’t visit when the festival takes place, there are over 2,000 screenings of classic, independent and foreign films held here each year. There’s also an exhibition space containing notable film scripts, costumes and posters. While the BFI’s wonderful location right on the Southbank and on-site Bar & Kitchen allows you to dine al fresco right beside the river Thames. A modish hotel with interiors by designer, Tom Dixon, The Mondrian is located on Southbank, conveniently close to the BFI.

Screen on the Green

Approaching this dainty little cinema on Islington Green with its retro neon signage and old-school marquee, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into the 1950s. The interior is no less nostalgic; think blush-coloured, two-seater velvet sofas and wooden side tables. It’s one of the oldest continuously-running cinemas in the UK, hence its scruffy, old-fashioned charm. And it specialises in British film, cult classics and live screenings direct from the Royal Opera House. Being a single-screen cinema, it often sells out – so book your tickets early. Check into the Cuckoo N1, a friendly gastropub with huge upstairs suites.

Curzon Mayfair

This Grade II-listed cinema is the chosen venue for many of London’s red carpet premieres and high-profile events, with its intimate, exclusive feel, springy blue carpets, private royal boxes and prestigious Mayfair location. It champions independent films, documentaries, live screenings of ballet and opera, and arthouse films. Not to mention the odd mainstream blockbuster. 44 Curzon Street offers Mayfair apartments with marble bathrooms and period furniture just around the corner from the Curzon.

Electric Cinema

Having undergone a huge refurbishment in 2001, a visit to Portobello’s beloved and historic Electric Cinema is a real treat. Slumping into a red leather armchair with a private footstool, or perhaps even one of the front row double beds, you can recline with a glass of wine and wrap up in one of the cinema’s cashmere blankets. You can also have a pre- or post-film dinner of maple aubergine mac ‘n’ cheese or sweet potato and bacon fries at the American-inspired Electric Diner next door. Despite being one of the oldest working cinemas in England, it’s a venue that boasts an up-to-date roster of acclaimed recent releases as well as reruns of your all-time favourites. Stay 10 minutes’ walk from the Electric at Notting Hill B&B, and enjoy home-cooked breakfasts of eggs benedict and fluffy fruit pancakes.

Ciné Lumière

For those passionate about foreign language film, Ciné Lumière is a must-visit. It’s part of the Institut Français (London’s French cultural institute) and plays a significant part in encouraging an interest in cinema for children, families, and the the wider community. It’s also something of a landmark in South Kensington, housed in a red-brick, art deco building with ornate windows. Check out the various annual festivals it hosts, the Sunday French classics, special events like director Q&As, or just a regular screening of a French, European or world cinema film. Stay at the refined Ampersand Hotel, a 2-minute walk from the Institut Français.

Arthouse Cinema

This small venue in Crouch End has many strings to its bow; as well as an arthouse cinema, it hosts exhibitions, comedy nights, live music, dance workshops and various community events. There’s even a film-themed book club and special screenings for parents and babies on Saturday afternoons. Having only recently opened – the building was formerly the local base of the Salvation Army charity – it’s already established itself as a popular fixture in the neighbourhood with its laid back atmosphere and well-curated film schedule. To be close to the cinema while also enjoying easy access to central London, stay at the Pembury Hotel, right next to Finsbury Park tube station.