London BFI IMAX Theatre

Map & Directions
Photos & Video

London BFI IMAX Theatre provides a very immersive movie experience

Glass exterior of the London BFI IMAX Theatre cc licensed photo by Lawrie Cate

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 above.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Address: 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk, Waterloo, London SE1 8XR, UK

Phone: 0330 333 7878

Official Website: BFI IMAX Theatre

Map of nearby accommodations: Booking.com

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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Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 ODEON BFI IMAX Star Rating

It was more than I expected! I went there to a 3D movie and I was amazed by the screen, effects and the sound! It was something I have never experienced before when we are talking about cinemas. Though I should say that the standard seats are not too comfortable (starts to feel after an hour watching a movie) but that doesn't matter when the effects blows your mind! If there is a movie you really want to see - I recommend IMAX Waterloo!

Dovydas P - 3 days ago

Awesome IMAX Experience. You must watch and take he experience.... Ambience was too good and you need to go to the building through subway as it is in between on the road..... Santander cycle stand is also there if you wanna ride over there. Its near to Waterloo station. ....😊😘😍 Screen is too big and the clarity is awesome...... Loved it

Ayush Agarwal - 13 days ago

For an experience outside the ordinary cinema this is fantastic. The sound is superb, the screen massive and seating at a steep angle so no backs of heads in the way. Seats very comfortable, but probably not worth the upgrade to the 'luxury' seats. They are in the 'sweet spot' to have a good view of the screen, but they don't really have as much extra space as the cinema leads you to believe - a tad wider but leg room still a little cramped.

Dave Pickering - 13 days ago

Huge screen (only one in theater if you are expecting a multiplex). Just outside of Waterloo station towards Thames. Amazed by how reasonable the concessions were priced. Nachos, two large drinks, bag of candy only £12.50. Lobby had a Costa, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream and a small bar. First time I’ve ever been at a movie where they read a list of rules before the showing.

Mike Lewis - 1 month ago

absolutely wonderful experience. Be wary on booking seat p 26. as you will have a piece of handrail in the left corner covering the screen a bit and the sweet popcorn could be of better quality. But seeing you favorite movie in here is absolutely worth your money.

Alexander Korber - 1 month ago

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Video

Watch this fascinating video about replacing the screen, the largest in Britain, in the London BFI IMAX

Photo Gallery

View of the London BFI IMAX Theatre at night cc licensed photo by Elsie esq.