BFI IMAX
Indulge in an immersive cinema experience like no other at the UK's largest cinema screen.
Opening Hours
The BFI IMAX opens daily for screenings. Closed 25 Dec.
Contact Info
- Address
- BFI IMAX, London, UK
- Phone
- +44 330 333 7878
- AccessAble Link
- View Accessibility Info
A digital surround sound system of over 12,000 watts, 489 seats and a screen almost as high as five double-decker – seeing a film at the BFI IMAX is like nothing else!
The giant glass drum of the BFI IMAX, is the UK's largest state-of-the-art cinema, and one of only 30 IMAX cinemas in the world (and one of only four in Europe) that are able to screen films on 70mm format film.
The BFI IMAX was originally designed by Bryan Avery Architects and completed in 1999. In 2022 the cinema upgraded to a powerful new 12-channel sound technology and state-of-the-art 4K IMAX with laser projection system. Combined with that immense screen, it all comes together to make the BFI IMAX UK’s most immersive cinema experience.
It's not unusual for film fans to travel from across Europe to enjoy the immersive experience of the latest blockbuster or to watch a classic film re-released in IMAX 70mm on this immense screen. Particular fan favourites include screenings of IMAX-filmed masterpieces such as Christopher Nolan's epic Interstellar and Denis Villeneuve's glorious Dune and Dune Part Two.
How to get to the BFI IMAX
Located inside the Waterloo Bridge traffic circle, the entrance to the BFI IMAX is not immediately obvious! The cinema is in fact accessed via several underpasses that are not immediately obvious at street level
The quickest, most convenient and direct underpass to reach the BFI IMAX is via the stairs at the corner of York Road and Concert Hall Approach Road.
How to get to BFI IMAX from Waterloo Tube station
Follow the signs underground for the South Bank and exit onto York Road. Look to your left and you will see the round BFI IMAX structure in the middle of the traffic circle. The stairs down into the IMAX on Concert Hall Approach are just after the railway arch.
How to get to BFI IMAX from Waterloo train station
If arriving in South Bank by train, get off at Waterloo Station and exit the station via The Victory Arch exit. Follow the road down out of the arch to the zebra crossing on York Road. You will see the BFI IMAX in the middle of the traffic circle to your right. Cross the zebra crossing and turn right and you will meet the stairs down to the IMAX on Concert Hall Approach Road.