Electric Cinema - red neon signage
1 / 10

Electric Cinema

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Experience cinematic magic in one of London's oldest cinemas, featuring plush sofas, beds, and in-seat waiter service.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdLow
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Electric Cinema - red neon signage

Electric Cinema

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience cinematic magic in one of London's oldest cinemas, featuring plush sofas, beds, and in-seat waiter service.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Brilliant experience, like no other cinema I've been to!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Sofa/Bed Seats Early

These unique spots sell out fast! Book online in advance for the ultimate cozy movie night.

🍸 Cocktails & Snacks Delivered

Text your order from your seat for drinks and food. Perfect for a relaxed experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Sofa & Bed Seating

Iconic Sofa & Bed Seating

Various screens

Experience movies from the comfort of plush sofas or even beds, offering an unparalleled cozy viewing.

Instagram
The Electric Diner Experience

The Electric Diner Experience

Adjacent diner

Enjoy milkshakes, cocktails, and food delivered directly to your seat via text service.

Instagram
Historic Architecture & Vibe

Historic Architecture & Vibe

Throughout the cinema

Immerse yourself in the charm of one of the UK's oldest working cinemas, with vintage decor and a unique atmosphere.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Prime Seating

The Electric Cinema offers unique seating like sofas and beds, which are highly sought after. Booking in advance is crucial, especially for these premium spots, to avoid disappointment and secure the best viewing experience. Instagram

Embrace the Vintage Charm

This historic cinema boasts a unique, retro atmosphere. Expect plush seating, intimate screens, and a step back in time. It's not your typical multiplex, so come ready to enjoy a more personal and charming movie-going experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Catch classic or new releases
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you know Birmingham is home to the UK’s oldest working cinema 🎬 #birmingham #brummie #brum #birminghamuk #didyouknowfacts #theelectriccinema
@bhamupdates
901 likes • 17.5K views

🎯 Book Sofa/Bed Seats Early

These unique spots sell out fast! Book online in advance for the ultimate cozy movie night. Instagram

🍸 Cocktails & Snacks Delivered

Text your order from your seat for drinks and food. Perfect for a relaxed experience. Instagram

The Electric Cinema ⚡ #history #cinema #electric #birmingham #foryou #shubsellathewarriorprincess #presenter #tourist #touring #discover #citylife #films #electriccinemabirmingham
@shubsella
164 likes • 1.8K views
Save this for the perfect date night📍🍿📽️ Grab milkshakes & food at the diner beforehand too!🍴 Electric Cinema, Notting Hill, London🍿 By Soho House PR invite #london #thingstodoinlondon #londonactivities #londonhotspots #londonhiddengems #cityguide #uktravel #cinema #electriccinema #londoncinema #wholesome
spacesnplacess
60.2K likes • 1.4M views

✨ Embrace the Vintage Vibe

It's one of the UK's oldest cinemas! Enjoy the retro charm and intimate setting. Instagram

🎟️ Check for Special Screenings

They often show cult classics and themed movie nights. TikTok

ELECTRIC CINEMA, LONDON Ponownie zajrzałyśmy do kina Electric w dzielnicy Notting Hill...To kino wyjątkowe, nawet słabszy film nie jest w stanie zepsuć wieczoru 😉 To jedno z najdłużej działających kin w Wielkiej Brytanii (od 1910r.). Znajduje się przy Portobello Road, głównej ulicy Notting Hill, więc trafi tam bez trudu również turysta. Kino ma kameralny, przytulny klimat. Oferuje zaledwie 83 ...
kulturalnie_po_godzinach
129 likes • 5.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Sofa/Bed Seats Early

These unique spots sell out fast! Book online in advance for the ultimate cozy movie night. Instagram

🍸 Cocktails & Snacks Delivered

Text your order from your seat for drinks and food. Perfect for a relaxed experience. Instagram

✨ Embrace the Vintage Vibe

It's one of the UK's oldest cinemas! Enjoy the retro charm and intimate setting. Instagram

🎟️ Check for Special Screenings

They often show cult classics and themed movie nights. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Electric Cinema's unique, cozy atmosphere and luxurious seating options like sofas and beds. The in-seat waiter service for food and drinks is a standout feature, enhancing the overall pampered experience. While the historic charm is a major draw, some find the ticket prices and food costs to be on the higher side for a cinema outing.

"What a fantastic place. I never knew it was there. This not like any other cinema that I have been before. You seat in sofas then you text you drinks and snacks order to a number and then your order turns up. Brilliant experience."

Jonathan Collins

"We did the behind the scenes tour today. What an amazing place! One of the best bits of Birmingham history that we should all know about and definitely fight to preserve. It was so good to hear the origin story of the Electric and to think about all it's gone through since 1909... and it was particularly brilliant to see original features and equipment and poke around in the basement... If you love cinema and love Birmingham then the Electric tour is a must"

Graham Woods

"Oldest working cinema in England, showing the best of recent releases and classic movies and cult favourites. Great cake and cocktails too."

Carl Joesbury

What People Like

Unique sofa/bed seating
In-seat waiter service
Vintage charm and atmosphere

What People Dislike

Higher ticket prices
Food costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Electric Cinema in Notting Hill is located at 191 Portobello Road, London W11 2ED. It's easily accessible via public transport. The nearest tube stations are Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove, both within walking distance. Instagram+1

Parking in Notting Hill can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to reach the cinema. Instagram

Electric Cinema White City is located within Television Centre. The nearest tube station is Wood Lane, which is on the Hammersmith & City and Circle lines. Instagram

The historic Electric Cinema in Birmingham was located on Station Street. However, it closed in February 2023 and its future is uncertain, with campaigners fighting to save it. TikTokReddit

Accessibility can vary. For specific needs, it's best to contact the cinema directly regarding wheelchair access and facilities for the London locations. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on the seating choice. Standard seats typically start around £20 per person, with premium options like beds costing more. Instagram+1

Yes, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular screenings and premium seating options like sofas and beds. Instagram

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, keep an eye on their website or social media for any special offers or promotions. Vouchers may be available for purchase. Instagram

Opening hours vary depending on the screening schedule. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date showtimes and opening hours for both London locations. Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted, as the cinema offers its own selection of snacks, meals, and beverages. Instagram

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

The Electric Cinema is famous for its unique seating, including plush sofas at the back and comfortable beds at the front, offering a luxurious movie-watching experience. Instagram+1

Yes, you can order food and drinks directly from your seat via a text service, which will then be delivered to you. Instagram+1

The atmosphere is intimate, cozy, and vintage, reminiscent of classic cinemas. It's often described as romantic and perfect for a special night out. Instagram+1

The Electric Cinema screens a mix of new releases, classic films, and cult favorites, catering to a diverse range of film enthusiasts. TikTok+1

Yes, the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill has two screens, offering a more intimate viewing experience compared to larger multiplexes. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Electric Cinema offers a range of food, including meals from the Electric Diner, chicken bites, mozzarella sticks, and other late-night menu items. Instagram

Absolutely! The Electric Cinema is known for its great cocktails, which you can enjoy during your film. TikTokInstagram

While specific menus can change, cinemas often have a variety of options. It's advisable to check the current menu on their website or inquire upon arrival. Instagram

Prices are comparable to other premium cinema experiences in London. For example, chicken bites are around £7 and mozzarella sticks are £9. Instagram

Yes, you can grab milkshakes and food at the diner before heading into your screening for a complete experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography during the film is generally discouraged to respect other patrons. However, taking photos of the beautiful interior before or after the screening is usually fine. Instagram

The plush seating, vintage decor, and unique architectural details make the entire cinema a photogenic spot. The beds and sofas are particularly popular for photos. Instagram+1

While general photography is allowed, it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests and avoid flash photography during screenings. Instagram

Its status as one of London's oldest cinemas, combined with its cozy, retro interiors and unique seating arrangements, creates a visually rich environment. Instagram+1

Yes, behind-the-scenes tours often allow for photography, giving you a great opportunity to capture the history and unique features of the cinema. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Electric Cinema can be a fun outing for families, especially for older children and teenagers who appreciate a unique experience. The sofa seating offers a more relaxed environment for families to enjoy a film together. Consider booking seats in advance, as premium options can fill up quickly. Instagram

While the cinema primarily shows a mix of new releases and classics, check the schedule for age-appropriate films. The ability to order snacks and drinks to your seat can also be a convenient perk for families. TikTok

💖 Couples & Date Nights

The Electric Cinema is renowned as a romantic destination. The intimate atmosphere, plush seating (especially the beds and sofas), and the ability to order food and drinks directly to your spot make it ideal for a special date night. Instagram+2

Consider booking the front beds for the ultimate cozy experience. Enjoying a film together in such a unique and comfortable setting, with the option of cocktails, creates a memorable and intimate evening. Instagram

✨ Film Buffs & History Enthusiasts

For those who love cinema history, the Electric Cinema is a must-visit. As one of the UK's oldest working cinemas, it offers a direct connection to the past. The behind-the-scenes tours provide fascinating insights into its origins and evolution. Reddit

Beyond its history, the cinema's programming often includes cult classics and independent films, appealing to discerning movie lovers. Experiencing a film in such an iconic setting adds an extra layer of appreciation for the art of cinema. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Electric Cinema

The Electric Cinema holds a significant place in cinematic history. The Notting Hill location, established in 1910, is one of London's oldest working cinemas, offering a tangible link to the golden age of film. Its enduring charm and commitment to a unique viewing experience have made it a beloved institution. Instagram+1

Tragically, the Birmingham Electric Cinema, which opened even earlier in 1909, faced closure in February 2023. Campaigners have been fighting to save this historic venue from developers, highlighting its importance as a cultural landmark. The uncertainty surrounding its future underscores the challenges faced by heritage cinemas in the modern era. TikTokReddit

Despite these challenges, the concept of the Electric Cinema—offering a more intimate, comfortable, and luxurious movie-going experience—continues to resonate. The focus on premium seating and attentive service sets it apart from mainstream multiplexes, appealing to those seeking a special night out. Instagram

Unique Seating and Service

What truly sets the Electric Cinema apart is its innovative approach to seating. Forget standard cinema chairs; here, you can opt for plush sofas or even luxurious beds at the front of the screen. This creates an incredibly relaxed and intimate atmosphere, making it feel more like a private screening than a public event. Instagram+1

Complementing the unique seating is the waiter text service. Instead of leaving your seat to queue at the bar, you can simply text your order for food and drinks, which are then delivered directly to you. This seamless service enhances the overall comfort and convenience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the film. Instagram+1

This combination of comfortable, unconventional seating and attentive in-seat service transforms a simple movie outing into a pampered experience. It’s this dedication to comfort and customer care that draws patrons back time and again, seeking that special blend of cinematic magic and luxurious relaxation. Instagram

Beyond the Screen: The Electric Diner

The Electric Cinema experience extends beyond the film itself, with the adjacent Electric Diner offering a perfect prelude or post-movie treat. This diner provides a retro-inspired setting where you can enjoy a range of food and beverages before settling in for your screening. Instagram

From classic milkshakes to more substantial meal options, the diner menu is designed to complement the cinema's vintage charm. It’s an ideal spot to meet friends, enjoy a date night, or simply soak in the atmosphere of Notting Hill before the main event. Instagram

This integrated approach, where dining and cinema are seamlessly connected, enhances the overall outing. It allows visitors to enjoy a complete entertainment experience without the need to travel between venues, making the Electric Cinema a destination in itself. Instagram

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