BFI IMAX: Britain's Largest Cinema Screen on London’s South Bank
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film magic at BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Located at 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk on London’s vibrant South Bank, the BFI IMAX is home to the UK's largest cinema screen, offering an immersive film experience with a 26-meter-wide and 20-meter-high screen. Operated by the British Film Institute, this landmark cinema showcases blockbuster IMAX films, alternative content, and educational presentations, complemented by a stylish bar and café, making it a cultural hub for film enthusiasts.
A brief summary to BFI IMAX
- 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk South Bank, London, SE1 8XR, GB
- +442079602102
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular blockbuster screenings and special events to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early to enjoy the stylish bar and café, perfect for pre- or post-film refreshments.
- Check accessibility options if you require wheelchair spaces or other assistance.
- Explore nearby South Bank attractions like the National Theatre and London Eye for a full cultural day out.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Thames Path to soak in iconic London views.
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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Underground
Take the London Underground to Waterloo station, which is approximately a 3-minute walk from BFI IMAX. Waterloo is served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines, offering frequent service throughout the day. Tickets cost vary depending on zones but typically range from £2.50 to £5.00 using contactless or Oyster card.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near the South Bank area, including routes 77, 211, and 381. Buses run frequently with journey times from central London averaging 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. A single bus fare is £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Train
Waterloo mainline station is a short 5-minute walk from the BFI IMAX, providing regional and national rail services. Train travel times vary widely depending on origin, with fares starting around £5 for short journeys within London.
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Walking
If staying nearby, a walk along the scenic South Bank riverside path offers a pleasant 10-20 minute stroll to the cinema, with flat, accessible terrain suitable for most visitors.
BFI IMAX location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about BFI IMAX
A Cinematic Giant in the Heart of London
The BFI IMAX stands proudly on Charlie Chaplin Walk in the bustling South Bank district, just north of Waterloo station. It boasts the largest cinema screen in the UK, measuring an impressive 26 meters wide by 20 meters high, enveloping audiences in a truly immersive viewing experience. Owned and operated by the British Film Institute, this cinema is a flagship venue for showcasing the latest IMAX blockbusters, as well as a diverse range of alternative and educational film content.Architectural and Technical Excellence
Designed to maximize visual and audio impact, the BFI IMAX features a state-of-the-art auditorium seating 493 guests, including wheelchair-accessible spaces. The projection team is renowned for maintaining high standards of presentation, ensuring every screening is a feast for the senses. The building’s location at a major roundabout junction integrates it seamlessly into the urban fabric, surrounded by Waterloo Road, Stamford Street, York Road, and Waterloo Bridge, making it a prominent landmark.Cultural and Social Hub on South Bank
Beyond film screenings, the BFI IMAX offers visitors a lively atmosphere with its stylish bar and café, perfect for socializing before or after shows. It also hosts special events such as all-night film marathons and retrospectives. Positioned within the cultural hotspot of South Bank, it sits near other iconic venues like the National Theatre and the London Eye, contributing to the area’s reputation as a centre for arts and entertainment.Connection to Charlie Chaplin and Local Heritage
Situated on Charlie Chaplin Walk, the cinema pays homage to one of London’s most beloved film legends. The South Bank area itself is rich in cultural history and artistic expression, making the BFI IMAX not just a cinema but a destination that celebrates film heritage and innovation. Visitors can explore nearby mosaics and walking tours dedicated to Chaplin’s life and legacy, deepening the cultural experience.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The venue offers modern amenities including accessible seating, a welcoming bar and café, and a film shop. The Mediatheque nearby allows free access to the BFI’s extensive film and television archive, enriching the visit for cinephiles. Tickets are generally available on short notice, making spontaneous visits easy. The cinema’s location on a pedestrian-friendly stretch of South Bank also invites visitors to enjoy riverside strolls and nearby attractions.BFI IMAX in the Context of London’s South Bank
South Bank is a vibrant cultural district along the River Thames, known for its artistic institutions, theatres, and stunning river views. The BFI IMAX complements this environment by offering a unique large-format cinema experience. The area is lively and accessible, with a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it a perfect destination for a day or evening out in London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Bridge
0.5 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
County Hall
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Community Area
0.5 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
South Bank Lion
0.6 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.6 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.7 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.7 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.7 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.7 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Temple Station
0.7 km
Explore the historic Temple Station in London, where Gothic revival architecture meets the vibrant pulse of the city.
Whitehall Gardens
0.7 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
Embankment Pl
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Embankment Place, a picturesque riverside destination in the heart of London, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
0.7 km
Explore the tranquility of Victoria Embankment Gardens, a beautiful park along the Thames offering stunning landscapes and historical landmarks in London.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.7 km
Explore the Battle of Britain Monument in London, a powerful tribute to the heroism of RAF pilots during World War II, rich in history and artistic elegance.
Westminster Bridge
0.7 km
Historic Gothic bridge over the Thames offering stunning views of Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Bank
0.2 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Southbank Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside cultural complex in London offering world-class music, art, and festive experiences year-round.
Royal Festival Hall
0.2 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.2 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
BFI Southbank
0.2 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
National Theatre
0.3 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Southbank Book Market
0.3 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
Jubilee Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.4 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
Roupell St
0.4 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
Leake St
0.4 km
Dive into London’s vibrant Banksy Tunnel, where ever-changing legal graffiti transforms a forgotten underpass into a dynamic urban art sanctuary.
The Queen’s Walk
0.4 km
A scenic riverside promenade along the Thames connecting London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural hubs.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Essential places to dine
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
0.2 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
0.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.3 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Wahaca Southbank
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Troia Southbank
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
OKAN South Bank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.9 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.2 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.4 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Sugar And Style
0.4 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.4 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
j-me original design ltd
0.5 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.5 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.5 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Browns of London
0.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
The Giftree London
0.7 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Gifts of London
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The Store X
0.8 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Twinings - The Strand
0.9 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.9 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.2 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.3 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
The Understudy
0.3 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.3 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.3 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Champagne Bar
0.4 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.7 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.8 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
American Bar
0.8 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
0.8 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Proud Late
0.6 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Heaven
0.8 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
1.2 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
1.2 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.
Ministry of Sound
1.3 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 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.
Carwash Nightclub
1.3 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.3 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Penthouse London
1.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Roxy
1.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly