Cinemas Worth Travelling For: The UK’s Most Beautiful Picture Houses
In the age of streaming, there’s something magical about watching a film in a venue as captivating as the story on screen. Across the UK, you’ll find a collection of stunning cinemas — from gilded art deco palaces to indie gems tucked down cobbled streets — that make “going to the pictures” an experience worth the journey.
Whether you’re after old-school elegance, cutting-edge design, or just a really comfy seat in a jaw-dropping setting, here are some of the UK’s most beautiful and memorable picture houses.
. Electric Cinema, London
Possibly the plushest cinema in the UK, the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill combines Edwardian glamour with modern luxury. First opened in 1910, it’s one of the oldest working cinemas in the country — and still one of the most indulgent.
With rich red interiors, leather armchairs, cashmere blankets, and even front-row beds (yes, actual beds), it’s a cinematic experience like no other. The cocktail bar is just the cherry on top.
2. Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle
Housed in a stunning 1930s building, Tyneside Cinema is a cultural landmark in the North East. Originally opened as a newsreel theatre, it’s been beautifully restored and now screens everything from indie gems to world cinema and timeless classics.
Inside, you’ll find original art deco features, marble staircases, and intimate screening rooms. With a bar, café, and regular film events, it’s a hub for both locals and visitors.
3. The Cameo, Edinburgh
One of Scotland’s oldest cinemas, The Cameo has been welcoming audiences since 1914. Its red velvet seats, ornate plasterwork, and historic screen transport you to another era, while its film selection remains refreshingly modern.
4. The Rex, Berkhamsted
A true art deco treasure, The Rex in Hertfordshire was saved from demolition and lovingly restored to its 1938 glory. With curved balconies, a grand stage, and gold-trimmed interiors, it’s a feast for the eyes before the film even begins.
The Rex offers a wide range of films and table service in the stalls, making it a perfect destination for a stylish evening out.
5. Broadway Cinema, Nottingham
Known for its bold programming and design-forward interiors, Broadway Cinema is a creative powerhouse in the Midlands. The late filmmaker Shane Meadows even called it “the best cinema in the world.”
With four screens, a vibrant café-bar, and rooftop views, Broadway is a must-visit for those exploring Nottingham and looking for something a little different.
6. The Ultimate Picture Palace, Oxford
Oxford’s only independent cinema, The Ultimate Picture Palace (UPP to locals) is a single-screen venue with a history dating back to 1911. It’s proudly no-frills, but its charm and personality more than make up for its size.
Expect a carefully curated mix of foreign films, classics, and thought-provoking new releases, all shown in a beautifully preserved historic space.
7. The Cameo, Liverpool (Woolton Picture House)
Tucked away in Liverpool’s leafy Woolton village, this cinema — often confused with its Edinburgh namesake — has its own rich legacy. Opened in 1927, Woolton Picture House (formerly The Cameo) is one of the last remaining suburban cinemas of its kind in the UK.
With its decorative ceilings and traditional seating, it’s a nostalgic gem that has served generations of local filmgoers.
8. Hyde Park Picture House, Leeds
Currently undergoing a major restoration, Hyde Park Picture House is one of the last surviving gas-lit cinemas in the world. Its Edwardian architecture, stained glass windows, and intricate tiled details make it a true rarity.
Located in a student-filled suburb of Leeds, the cinema is beloved for its community spirit and beautifully nostalgic atmosphere.
See the UK Through a Different Lens
Visiting a local cinema is one of the most atmospheric ways to experience a city or town — especially when the venue itself is part of the story. Whether you’re taking a break from sightseeing or planning your trip around film festivals and screenings, these picture houses offer more than just popcorn and a screen. They offer history, architecture, and an escape into another world.
Plan a Cinematic Journey with Great British Trips
At Great British Trips, we love helping travellers uncover the UK’s hidden gems — and these cinemas are just that. Whether you’re a film buff or simply love beautiful spaces, we can design a trip that includes stops at the UK’s most iconic screens, alongside castles, coastlines, and countryside.
Because the best trips don’t just show you the sights — they show you the stories.