Background

Curzon Soho: London's Premier Independent Cinema Experience

Discover independent cinema culture in the heart of Soho with stylish screenings, cozy cafés, and a vibrant social scene at Curzon Soho.

★★★★★4.5 (1670)

Curzon Soho, located at 99 Shaftesbury Avenue in London’s vibrant West End, is a celebrated independent cinema known for its rich history, stylish ambiance, and dedication to showcasing foreign and independent films. Housed within a modernized complex, it features three screens with excellent sound and comfortable seating, alongside a café and licensed bar, making it a cultural hub for film lovers and social gatherings alike.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Curzon Soho

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
99 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1D 5DY, GB
🕒
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
💷
Mid ranged
🏛
Indoor
📶
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Curzon Soho.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Arrive early to enjoy the café or licensed bar before your film begins, perfect for socializing or relaxing.
Check the schedule for special Q&A sessions and festival screenings to experience unique film events.
Consider booking tickets in advance for popular independent or foreign-language films to secure your seat.
Be mindful of the cinema’s food and drink policies inside screening rooms to avoid disruptions.
Use nearby public transport options like Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road stations for easy access.

Discover more about Curzon Soho

A Storied Venue in the Heart of Soho

Curzon Soho stands on the historic site of the former Shaftesbury Pavilion, a cinema destroyed during World War II. The current venue, part of the Wingate House office block, was extensively refurbished and reopened in 1998 as a three-screen cinema after a period of closure and subdivision. The largest screen retains its original proscenium arch, preserving a connection to its cinematic past, while the other two screens offer more intimate viewing experiences. This blend of heritage and modernity reflects the cinema’s evolution and commitment to quality film presentation.

A Hub for Independent and Foreign Films

Specializing in independent, foreign, and art-house films, Curzon Soho offers a curated selection that appeals to cinephiles seeking diverse storytelling beyond mainstream blockbusters. The cinema maintains 35mm projection capabilities on its main screen, a rarity that enhances the authenticity of film presentations. This dedication to cinematic art forms a core part of its identity, attracting a discerning audience passionate about film culture.

Stylish Interiors and Social Spaces

The venue’s interiors combine comfort and style with plush red seating and carefully tuned acoustics that deliver crisp audio and clear visuals. Beyond the screening rooms, Curzon Soho features a welcoming café at street level and a licensed bar in the main foyer, creating inviting spaces for socializing before and after screenings. These areas foster a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy coffee, snacks, or cocktails in a setting that celebrates cinema as a social and cultural experience.

Community and Cultural Engagement

Curzon Soho regularly hosts Q&As, film festivals, and documentary screenings, making it a vibrant cultural venue within London’s West End. Its programming often includes events that engage the local community and film enthusiasts, reinforcing its role as more than just a cinema but as a platform for dialogue and artistic exchange.

Accessibility and Location Advantages

Situated in Soho, the cinema benefits from excellent public transport connections, including proximity to Leicester Square and Tottenham Court Road stations. The venue is wheelchair accessible and family friendly, welcoming a diverse audience. Nearby parking options and central London’s bustling atmosphere add to its convenience for both locals and tourists.

Modern Amenities and Visitor Experience

Curzon Soho is equipped with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. The café and bar offer a range of food and drink options, complementing the cinematic experience. While some visitors note variability in food policies within screening rooms, the overall ambiance is one of comfort and sophistication, suitable for casual meetups, date nights, or solo film explorations.

Explore places near Curzon Soho

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Curzon Soho

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, approximately a 5-7 minute walk from the cinema. Services include the Northern and Piccadilly lines, with frequent trains every 2-5 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50-£4.90 depending on the time and ticket type.

    Bus

    Several bus routes serve Shaftesbury Avenue, including routes 14, 19, 24, and 29. Bus stops are within a 3-5 minute walk. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares starting at £1.65 using contactless payment.

    Car and Parking

    Nearby parking is available at Q-Park Chinatown, about a 5-minute walk from Curzon Soho. Parking rates typically range from £5 to £10 per hour. Note that central London congestion charges apply during weekdays.

    Walking

    From Tottenham Court Road station, it is a 10-12 minute walk through central Soho’s lively streets. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors including those with mobility aids.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Trash Bins
    Information Boards

    Curzon Soho location weather suitability

    Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.

    Weather icon
    Any Weather
    Weather icon
    Rain / Wet Weather
    Weather icon
    Mild Temperatures

    A brief summary to Curzon Soho

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

    A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.

    Busiest months of the year

    Seasonality

    Busiest hours of the day

    Footfall
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Clock Tower - Palace of Westminster, London - September 2006-2.jpg -  Wikipedia

    More about London

    Explore London: A city of iconic landmarks, rich history, vibrant culture, and endless attractions that cater to every taste, making it a must-visit destination.

    Tell me more about London

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.