BFI IMAX: Britain's Largest Cinema Screen on London's South Bank
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
The BFI IMAX, located at 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk on the vibrant South Bank of London, boasts the UK's largest cinema screen, measuring 26 meters wide and 20 meters high. This iconic venue offers an immersive movie experience with family-friendly 3D films, action blockbusters, and special film events. Beyond cinema, it features a stylish bar and restaurant, an interactive exhibition space, and access to the BFI's extensive film archive, making it a cultural hub for film lovers in the heart of London.
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 online in advance to secure seats for popular screenings and special events.
- Visit the Mediatheque for free access to the extensive BFI film and television archive.
- Enjoy a meal or drink at the stylish bar and restaurant located within the venue.
- Check for BFI membership discounts which offer reduced ticket prices.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the South Bank to explore nearby cultural attractions.
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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London Underground
Take the Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern, or Waterloo & City lines to Waterloo Station, a 5-10 minute walk from BFI IMAX. The station is well connected but can be busy during peak hours. Tickets range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on zones and time.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes serve the Waterloo area including routes 59, 68, 171, and 172. Bus stops are within a 5-minute walk of the cinema. Single fares cost £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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River Bus
The nearest River Bus pier is Embankment Pier, approximately an 11-minute walk from BFI IMAX. River Bus services offer a scenic route along the Thames with fares starting around £6.00.
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Walking
From nearby landmarks like the London Eye or National Theatre, it’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk along the South Bank’s pedestrianised paths. The terrain is flat and wheelchair accessible.
BFI IMAX 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 BFI IMAX
A Cinematic Giant in the Heart of London
The BFI IMAX stands as a landmark on the South Bank, nestled within a roundabout junction surrounded by Waterloo Road, Stamford Street, York Road, and Waterloo Bridge. It is renowned for housing the largest cinema screen in the UK, measuring an impressive 26 meters wide and 20 meters tall. This colossal screen delivers an unparalleled viewing experience, making it a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts and families alike. The cinema showcases a diverse range of films, from the latest Hollywood blockbusters and family-friendly 3D movies to special all-night screenings such as the Lord of the Rings trilogy.More Than Just a Cinema
Beyond its cinematic offerings, the BFI IMAX is a cultural venue with an engaging bar and restaurant that provide a stylish setting to unwind before or after a film. Visitors can explore an interactive exhibition space that often features film-related displays and events, enriching the cultural experience. Additionally, the venue offers access to the Mediatheque, where guests can delve into the British Film Institute’s extensive film and television archive for free, allowing a deeper appreciation of cinema history and artistry.South Bank’s Cultural and Scenic Setting
Situated on the lively South Bank, the BFI IMAX benefits from its proximity to a wealth of cultural attractions including the National Theatre, Tate Modern, and the London Eye. The South Bank area is known for its vibrant arts scene, riverside walks, and eclectic dining options. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and iconic London landmarks such as Tower Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral while exploring the nearby pedestrianised Queen’s Walk.Architectural and Urban Context
The IMAX building’s modern design contrasts with the historic and artistic surroundings of the South Bank, creating a dynamic urban landmark. Its location on Charlie Chaplin Walk pays homage to the legendary film star, linking the venue to London’s rich cinematic heritage. The cinema’s placement within a busy roundabout makes it a distinctive visual feature visible from various vantage points along the river and surrounding streets.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The BFI IMAX offers visitors a comprehensive experience with amenities including a bar and restaurant, accessible facilities, and ticketing options that often include discounts for BFI members. The venue is wheelchair accessible and caters to a broad audience, from families to solo film buffs. Its central location on the South Bank makes it easily accessible by various transport modes, enhancing its appeal as a prime entertainment destination.Legacy and Cultural Significance
As part of the British Film Institute’s network, the IMAX contributes significantly to London’s cultural landscape by promoting film appreciation and education. It hosts special screenings, film festivals, and events that celebrate cinema’s past, present, and future. The BFI IMAX stands not only as a place to watch films but as a vibrant cultural institution fostering a deeper connection to the art of filmmaking.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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
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
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly