London BFI IMAX Theatre
London BFI IMAX Theatre provides a very immersive movie experience
Located on the Southbank, right in the middle of a roundabout, just north of Waterloo Station, the London IMAX theatre is operated by the British Film Institute in partnership with Odeon.
The London IMAX Theatre's giant 20 metre high by 26 metre wide screen (the largest in the UK) combined with a 14,000 watt digital surround sound system results in a very immersive experience - almost like being there in person. Each frame of film is over 10 times larger than a normal 35mm film making the pictures extremely large and crystal clear. The surround sound adds to the realistic effects drawing you completely into the movie. The video at the bottom of this page is very interesting to watch. It goes into detail about the new screen, projectors and sound system that combine to give you a breathtaking experience you won't soon forget. The IMAX theatre features plush seating that can accommodate nearly 500 viewers. Most days there are multiple show-times and many of the movies are now in 3D.
The London IMAX Theatre is located close to a number of other London theatres and attractions including the Old Vic Theatre Southbank, Royal Festival Hall, Royal National Theatre and The London Eye
For more information about the London BFI IMAX Theatre as well as shows and schedules visit their official website link below.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesAddress: 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk South Bank, London SE1 8XR, UK
Phone: 020 7960 2102
Official Website: BFI IMAX Theatre
BFI IMAX Theatre Reviews
Rated out of 5
I am fortunate to live close to the BFI and have the ability to go multiple times a year. For a movie lover like me, it has created some breathtaking and one in a life time experiences. Even for my friends who are more relaxed with their cinema experience, have left in amazement. The price of the ticket may cost a bit more than your usual cinema but for the quality and type of cinema it’s well worth it and cheaper compare to the other IMAX places. The concessions are well priced for a cinema as well. I recommend giving the BFI IMAX a try at least once, especially if it’s a film formatted for such experience.
Nicholas Ceja - 2 months ago
Yes, very interesting experience. I was an Imax virgin. The film, "M" was awesome. My observation is that
Imax is very engrossing and 'in your face' and I didn't see everything on the screen due to its size. I look forward to recieving the DVD at Christmas (hoping) to enjoy the film again.
Andrew Williams - 3 weeks ago
I recently visited an amazing IMAX cinema near Waterloo, which boasts the largest cinema screen in the UK!
My experience was wonderful. The cinema was warm and the seats were comfortable, while the screens were kept clean. The staff were friendly and helpful, and there was a good selection of food and drink options available for purchase from the kiosk and the onsite café.
Tony - 3 months ago
Third time at this amazing screen, odeon and cinematic experience.
Six of us came to watch the new "Tron Ares" film to which we were also not disappointed. Great film and the third in the wonderful franchise.
Demetri's World - a month ago
First the accessibility to the location. It is a maze activity. The theatre is located in centre of a roundabout. And the access is underground ducts located all around the roundabout. So basically no need to cross the roundabout. Just get in an underground ducts and it has directions marked to BFI IMAX.
Once you there, just keep walking to first floor for theatre access. Surprisingly no scanning of tickets. Just random checks.
Definitely it’s a big screen and a more vertical seating arrangement. They claim it’s biggest in UK. Sound system was definitely good. I was there watching F1 movie. And the experience was mind blowing. The team at F1 movie have done fabulous job to make us the experience the thrill of F1 cars driving.
Truly worth experiencing the screen and sound system. A tick box sort of thing. As the tickets are expensive compared to regular theatres. And it’s conveniently located near Waterloo station. So if you are a visitor to London, getting to the location won’t be a much hassle.
Alok Sonthalia - 4 months ago
Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines | Waterloo Station | 2 Minutes |
How to get to BFI IMAX Theatre by Tube
Located in the middle of a round-a-bout, The London BFI IMAX Theatre is just a brief walk via underground walkway from Waterloo Station. Just watch for the signs and don't make the mistake of trying to access it from street level, as there is no entrance on the street - you must use one of the underground walkways that lead to the centre of the round-a-bout.
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Photo Gallery
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View of the London BFI IMAX Theatre at night cc licensed photo by Elsie esq.
