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Odeon Luxe Leicester Square: London's Premier Art Deco Cinema Experience

Experience London’s iconic Art Deco cinema with luxury recliners, Dolby Cinema technology, and a vibrant social bar overlooking Leicester Square.

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Odeon Luxe Leicester Square is a flagship cinema located in the heart of London’s West End, renowned for its Art Deco architecture and as the UK’s first Dolby Cinema. Originally opened in 1937, it has been extensively refurbished to offer luxury recliner seating, state-of-the-art Dolby Vision and Atmos technology, and a premium food and beverage experience including the elegant Oscar’s Bar overlooking Leicester Square. It remains a central venue for high-profile film premieres and a cultural icon in London’s entertainment scene.

A brief summary to ODEON Luxe Leicester Square

  • 22-24 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7LQ, GB
  • +443330144501
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book premium recliner seats in advance, especially for popular premieres or weekend screenings.
  • Arrive early to enjoy a drink and the panoramic views at Oscar’s Bar before your film.
  • Choose seats in the center stalls for the best Dolby Atmos sound and picture experience.
  • Check the cinema’s website for the latest film schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. The station is approximately a 5-minute walk from the cinema. Trains run frequently, with fares starting around £2.50 using contactless payment.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Leicester Square, including routes 24, 29, and 176. Bus travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.65.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing

    Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services can drop you directly at Leicester Square. Travel times depend on traffic, typically 10–25 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting at approximately £8–£15.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in central London, Leicester Square is easily reachable on foot. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes from nearby areas such as Covent Garden or Piccadilly Circus. The terrain is flat and accessible.

ODEON Luxe Leicester Square location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about ODEON Luxe Leicester Square

An Architectural and Historical Icon in London’s West End

The Odeon Luxe Leicester Square stands as a monumental cinema building completed in 1937, designed by architects Harry Weedon and Andrew Mather in the distinctive Art Deco style. It occupies a prime location on the eastern side of Leicester Square, featuring a striking black polished granite facade and a towering 120-foot-high tower outlined with blue neon lights at night. Originally built as the flagship for Oscar Deutsch’s Odeon Cinemas chain, it replaced the Victorian Turkish baths and the Alhambra Theatre, a historic music hall dating back to the 1850s. The cinema’s interior originally featured a ribbed ceiling and sidewalls with concealed strip lighting, and seats covered in faux-leopard skin, a motif still reflected today in the carpeting.

State-of-the-Art Technology and Luxurious Comfort

Following a comprehensive £10–15 million refurbishment completed in late 2018, Odeon Luxe Leicester Square was transformed into the UK’s first Dolby Cinema, marrying cutting-edge Dolby Vision dual-laser projection with immersive Dolby Atmos sound technology. The main auditorium now offers 800 seats with spacious recliners and rocker chairs, replacing the former cramped seating to create a premium viewing environment. The cinema’s sound system, featuring over 400 speakers, delivers a powerful and intimate audio experience, while the laser projection provides vibrant colors and deep contrast that enhance every film screening.

A Destination for Film Premieres and Cultural Events

Odeon Luxe Leicester Square has long been synonymous with major film premieres, hosting over 500 European and world premieres attended by celebrities and royalty alike. It remains central to London’s film culture, regularly hosting events such as the annual Royal Film Performance. The venue’s stage facilities and retractable screen and speakers allow for occasional live performances, continuing its legacy as a multifaceted entertainment hub.

Oscar’s Bar: A Luxurious Social Space

Enhancing the cinema experience, Oscar’s Bar offers a sophisticated setting named after Odeon’s founder, Oscar Deutsch. This elegant bar overlooks Leicester Square and provides a premium menu of food and drinks, encouraging guests to arrive early and socialize before screenings. The bar’s contemporary design complements the cinema’s Art Deco heritage, blending history with modern luxury.

Design and Atmosphere Preserving Heritage

While the refurbishment introduced modern amenities and technology, care was taken to preserve the cinema’s historic character. The leopard print carpet motif recalls the original seat upholstery, and art deco elements remain prominent throughout the venue. The building’s exterior and interior design celebrate its rich heritage, creating an immersive environment that honors its past while embracing the future of cinema.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Odeon Luxe Leicester Square caters to a diverse audience, including tourists, locals, families, and cinephiles seeking a premium experience. The cinema offers luxury recliner seats, enhanced concession options, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its central location in Leicester Square makes it easily accessible, and it supports all digital sound formats. The venue is a must-visit for those interested in film history, architecture, and cutting-edge cinema technology.

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