BFI IMAX
WHERE
London
What it’s like
A giant screen and a proper sound system for blockbusters that feel bigger than life, right on the South Bank.
This is a screen you notice before the film even starts. The site talks up the scale of the picture and the sound, and that's really the whole pitch: you're not going for the popcorn or the seats, you're going because a big action film or a space documentary hits differently when it fills your whole field of vision. Kids who are old enough to sit through a two hour film and cope with a properly loud soundtrack will get the most out of it.
It's not just Hollywood on there either. The site mentions alternative content alongside the usual blockbusters, so it's worth a look at what's actually showing before you commit, since it won't always be the big family friendly release you're expecting.
Doors open half an hour before the first screening, which doesn't give you long to faff about once you're there. Turn up in good time if you've got a younger kid who needs the toilet, wants a snack, or just needs a minute to settle before the lights go down and the sound comes up properly loud.
There's no booking link listed, so plan on sorting tickets another way if you want to guarantee a seat for a popular release.
Plan your visit
What makes this different from a normal cinema?
It's built around a much bigger screen and a heavier sound system, so IMAX films are the main draw.
Is it only big blockbuster films?
Mostly, but the site also lists alternative content alongside the usual releases, so check what's actually on before you go.
What time should we get there?
Doors open half an hour before the first screening, so that's your window to get settled.
Is it suitable for a toddler?
There's no age guidance given, but the scale of the picture and volume of the sound suggest it suits kids old enough to sit still and cope with a loud soundtrack.
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