Picturehouse Central: A Stylish Cinema Experience in London’s West End
Experience cinema in style at Picturehouse Central, a vibrant West End venue blending heritage charm with modern luxury and diverse film programming.
Picturehouse Central is a chic seven-screen cinema located at 15 Great Windmill Street, at the corner of Shaftesbury Avenue near Piccadilly Circus. It offers a diverse program of mainstream, indie, arthouse, and documentary films, complemented by a bustling ground-floor café, a first-floor restaurant and bar, and an exclusive members’ bar with a rooftop terrace. The venue combines vintage charm with modern comforts, making it a cultural hub in London’s theatre district.
A brief summary to Picturehouse Central
- 15 Great Windmill Street, Shaftesbury Ave, Piccadilly Circus, London, W1D 7DH, GB
- +442073262649
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Mondays for discounted tickets during Happy Mondays, offering better value for premium screenings.
- Explore the members’ bar and rooftop terrace for exclusive views and a relaxed atmosphere, available to ticket-holding members.
- Try the ground-floor café for artisan cakes and light meals before or after your film.
- Check the schedule for special events like dog-friendly screenings and relaxed screenings tailored for sensory-sensitive audiences.
- Be prepared for cooler indoor temperatures as the cinema’s air conditioning can be strong during screenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tube
Take the London Underground Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines to Piccadilly Circus station, about a 2-minute walk to the cinema. Tube services run frequently throughout the day, with single fares around £2.50 using contactless payment.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Shaftesbury Avenue, including routes 14, 19, 38, and 139. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless.
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Train
Charing Cross railway station is approximately a 10-minute walk, offering Southeastern services from southeast London and Kent. Taxi or bus connections are available from the station to the cinema.
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Walking
From Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus, the cinema is easily reached on foot within 5 to 10 minutes via flat, paved streets suitable for all mobility levels.
Picturehouse Central location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Picturehouse Central
A Heritage Venue with Contemporary Flair
Picturehouse Central occupies a historic building originally dating back to 1882 as the Trocadero Palace of Varieties Theatre. The current cinema evolved from the 1991 MGM Trocadero Cinema, retaining some heritage elements while undergoing extensive refurbishment. The interior design blends vintage cinema touches—such as luscious red seats and traditional carousel bulb signage—with modern, laid-back art-house aesthetics. The lobby features murals by renowned artists Patrick Vale and Paul Davis, and the venue’s atmosphere is a stylish fusion of old and new.Diverse Film Programming and Special Screenings
The cinema boasts seven screens equipped with state-of-the-art technology including 70mm projection, 4K digital cinema, and Dolby Atmos sound. It showcases an eclectic mix of films: from the latest blockbusters to foreign language, indie, and arthouse titles, with a strong focus on documentaries. Regular live Q&A sessions with directors and talent enrich the film-going experience. Monthly dog-friendly screenings and relaxed screenings designed for neurodivergent audiences and those with dementia highlight the venue’s inclusive approach.Gastronomy and Social Spaces
Picturehouse Central offers a vibrant food and drink scene. The ground-floor café serves artisan cakes, pastries, sandwiches, and deli items, open from 10am daily. Upstairs, the restaurant and bar provide a cozy setting for lunch, dinner, or drinks, featuring freshly prepared dishes like the classic Picturehouse Margherita pizza and a broad selection of wines and cocktails. The exclusive members’ bar spans two floors and includes a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over Piccadilly Circus, creating a perfect spot for socializing before or after screenings.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Picturehouse Central stands at the vibrant intersection of Great Windmill Street and Shaftesbury Avenue, mere steps from Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. The venue is well-served by public transport, with Piccadilly Circus tube station just a two-minute walk away. Nearby bus routes and Charing Cross railway station (a 10-minute walk) provide additional access. Limited bike parking and car parking facilities exist nearby, though visitors are encouraged to use public transport due to the central location.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The cinema is known for its comfortable, plush seating and excellent audiovisual quality, creating an immersive viewing environment. The stylish décor and relaxed vibe make it a popular cultural destination beyond just film screenings. The venue attracts a varied clientele, from cinephiles to casual moviegoers, and offers membership options that include access to the members’ bar and rooftop terrace. While ticket prices are on the higher side, reflecting its prime location and premium experience, the venue compensates with a rich program and quality amenities.Community and Special Features
Picturehouse Central actively fosters a community spirit through events like film festivals, vintage film Sundays, and live theatre broadcasts. It also supports accessibility with relaxed screenings and a dedicated helpline for visitors with disabilities. The cinema’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity makes it a notable landmark within London’s entertainment landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.1 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.2 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Harry Potter Statue
0.2 km
Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
Mr Bean Statue
0.2 km
Explore the whimsical Mr. Bean Statue in Leicester Square, a must-see landmark that captures the charm and humor of British culture in the heart of London.
Golden Square
0.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Golden Square, a charming park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and cultural experiences.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.3 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
St James's Piccadilly
0.3 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.3 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Soho
0.4 km
London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Spirit of Soho Mural
0.4 km
Discover the Spirit of Soho Mural, a captivating tribute to London's vibrant culture and artistic heritage in the heart of Soho.
Waterloo Pl
0.4 km
Experience the historic elegance of Waterloo Place in London, where stunning architecture meets vibrant city life in a beautiful urban square.
Cecil Court
0.4 km
Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
The London Pavillion
0.0 km
A historic West End landmark blending Victorian theatrical grandeur with modern urban culture in the heart of London’s Shaftesbury Avenue.
Lyric Theatre
0.1 km
London’s oldest surviving theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, blending historic charm with world-class musicals and drama in the heart of the West End.
The Blue Posts
0.1 km
A historic Soho pub blending classic charm with sleek modernity, offering lively drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of London’s West End.
Apollo Theatre
0.1 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic in the historic Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, a Renaissance-style gem with superb views and rich heritage.
Ham Yard Hotel
0.1 km
A vibrant boutique hotel in Soho blending eclectic design, luxury amenities, and central London convenience in a lively yet tranquil setting.
Tootbus London
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic sights sustainably with Tootbus’s electric hop-on hop-off buses, family-friendly tours, and scenic Thames cruises.
The Criterion Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of London’s underground Victorian gem, the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus.
Prince of Wales Theatre
0.1 km
Historic Art Deco West End theatre in London’s Theatreland, famed for premier musicals and an intimate yet grand audience experience.
Gielgud Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class theatre in the intimate, historic Gielgud Theatre nestled in London’s vibrant West End.
Grosvenor Casino, Piccadilly
0.1 km
Experience nonstop gaming excitement and stylish social vibes in the heart of London’s West End at Grosvenor Casino Piccadilly.
Café de Paris
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at Café de Paris, an iconic venue known for live music, exquisite dining, and unforgettable events.
The Book Of Mormon
0.1 km
Experience the irreverent, award-winning musical comedy The Book of Mormon at London’s Prince of Wales Theatre, where sharp satire meets catchy tunes.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant crossroads of London’s West End where iconic lights, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment converge.
Tiger Tiger London
0.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Tiger Tiger London, a premier nightclub offering diverse entertainment and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.
Chinatown Gate
0.1 km
Step through the ornate Qing Dynasty–style Chinatown Gate into Soho’s vibrant heart, where tradition and modern London life blend in a colorful cultural enclave.
Essential places to dine
Evelyn's Table
0.1 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Kricket Soho
0.1 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Bantof
0.1 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.1 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Mele e Pere
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Meet Fresh
0.2 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Gauthier Soho
0.3 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.3 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.3 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
NOPI
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Hoppers Soho
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
J Sheekey
0.4 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.2 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Machine-A
0.2 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.2 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Cool Britania
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
La Boutik
0.3 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.3 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Jermyn St
0.3 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Unique Britain
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.3 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Princes Arcade
0.4 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Sounds of the Universe
0.4 km
Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Pop Up 38
0.4 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
0.1 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
0.2 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.2 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.3 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.3 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Ku Bar
0.3 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Bar Soho
0.3 km
A theatrical two‑floor cocktail bar on Old Compton Street — daytime drinks and late‑night DJs for dancing, private hire and people‑watching in the heart of Soho.
The Black Book
0.3 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
0.4 km
Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Basement Sate
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.4 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Cahoots London
0.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
0.1 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sophisticats Soho
0.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.2 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Penthouse London
0.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Box Soho
0.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Cuckoo Club
0.3 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sunset night club
0.4 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
The Scotch of St James
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Club49Soho
0.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.4 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
St Moritz Club
0.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
TSQ Club
0.4 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly