Curzon Soho: London’s Premier Independent Cinema Experience
Discover the heart of London’s independent cinema scene at Curzon Soho, where art house films meet cozy charm and cultural vitality.
Curzon Soho, located at 99 Shaftesbury Avenue in London’s vibrant West End, is a celebrated independent cinema known for its art house and foreign film screenings. Housed within a stylish, multi-screen complex, it offers a cozy café and a downstairs bar, blending cinematic culture with a relaxed social atmosphere. Renowned for its excellent sound and picture quality, Curzon Soho remains a cultural hub for cinephiles seeking unique film experiences in central London.
A brief summary to Curzon Soho
- 99 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1D 5DY, GB
- +441233555644
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the café or downstairs bar, perfect for pre- or post-film refreshments in a relaxed setting.
- Check the schedule for special Q&A sessions and festival screenings to experience unique film events.
- Be mindful that seating comfort varies; Screen 1 offers the most spacious seating with original architectural features.
- Use nearby Leicester Square Tube station for convenient access, especially during busy evenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk from the cinema. This station is served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines, with frequent trains running throughout the day. Walking routes are flat and accessible, making it convenient for most travelers. A single journey ticket costs around £2.50-£5.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve Shaftesbury Avenue, including routes 14, 19, 24, and 176. Bus stops are located within a 2-5 minute walk of Curzon Soho. Buses run regularly but can be subject to traffic delays during peak hours. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares typically under £2.00 per trip.
-
Taxi / Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services like Uber can drop you off directly outside 99 Shaftesbury Avenue. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £25 from central London locations. Note that traffic congestion is common in Soho, especially during evenings.
-
Car Parking
The nearest car park is Q-Park Chinatown, about a 5-minute walk away. Parking fees vary but typically range from £4 to £8 per hour. Soho streets have limited parking and are often congested, so public transport is recommended for convenience.
Curzon Soho location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Curzon Soho
A Storied Venue with a Rich Cinematic Legacy
Curzon Soho occupies a historic site on Shaftesbury Avenue, once home to the Shaftesbury Pavilion, which was destroyed during World War II. The current cinema complex opened in 1985 after extensive refurbishment and subdivision into three screens, designed by Panter Hudspith Architects. It retains elements of its original grandeur, including the proscenium arch in Screen 1, and continues to honor its legacy by showcasing independent, foreign, and art house films. Over the decades, it has evolved while maintaining a commitment to quality cinema and cultural enrichment.Architecture and Atmosphere that Inspire
Set within an office block named Wingate House, Curzon Soho’s design balances modern comfort with classic cinema charm. The three screening rooms offer varying capacities and intimate viewing experiences, with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems ensuring immersive presentations. The venue’s interior combines cozy seating with film-themed décor, creating an inviting environment that encourages both focused viewing and social interaction. The street-level café and downstairs licensed bar provide welcoming spaces for conversation and relaxation before or after screenings.A Hub for Independent and Festival Films
Curzon Soho is a cornerstone of London’s independent film scene, regularly hosting Q&As, festival screenings, and documentary events. Its programming emphasizes diverse voices and cinematic artistry beyond mainstream blockbusters, appealing to a discerning audience. The cinema’s dedication to presenting a wide range of films ensures that visitors can explore new perspectives and genres, making it a vital cultural institution in the West End.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors enjoy a warm, comfortable atmosphere with attentive staff and well-maintained facilities. The cinema’s acoustics and screen quality are frequently praised, contributing to an exceptional viewing experience. The café serves quality coffee and light refreshments, while the bar offers a selection of drinks in a relaxed setting. Seating comfort varies slightly across screens, with some noting limited legroom in smaller auditoriums. Overall, Curzon Soho combines the charm of an independent cinema with modern amenities to create a memorable outing.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Soho, Curzon Soho benefits from proximity to Leicester Square and other cultural landmarks. The area is lively and bustling, with numerous dining and entertainment options nearby. Public transport access is excellent, with Leicester Square Tube station within walking distance. The cinema’s central location makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring London’s West End theatre and nightlife scenes.Commitment to Cinema Culture and Community
Beyond screenings, Curzon Soho actively engages with the film community through special events, competitions, and collaborations. It supports emerging filmmakers and diverse storytelling, contributing to the broader cultural fabric of London. This dedication to nurturing cinema as an art form distinguishes Curzon Soho as more than just a movie venue—it is a vibrant cultural hub fostering appreciation and dialogue around film.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.2 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.3 km
A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Café de Paris
0.3 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Historic Seven Dials
0.3 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.3 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Seven Dials
0.3 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Cecil Court
0.3 km
Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant O Hello Sunshine sculpture in London, a historical landmark that embodies creativity and community spirit amidst the city's artistic landscape.
Denmark St
0.3 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Soho Square Gardens
0.3 km
Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Soho Square
0.3 km
Historic Georgian square where aristocrats, scientists, and artists shaped London's cultural legacy
Slingsby Place
0.3 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Mercer Walk
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting Mercer Walk in London, a charming alley brimming with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artistic flair that captures the city's spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Pub Crawl
0.1 km
Unleash your night in London with the ultimate pub crawl, exploring iconic bars, great deals, and a vibrant social scene.
Bar Soho
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Bar Soho, a quintessential cocktail bar in London’s lively Soho district.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
0.1 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Coach & Horses, a celebrated pub in the heart of Soho, London.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant soul of London’s West End with an immersive self-guided tour through Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown’s cultural and culinary gems.
Prince Edward Theatre
0.1 km
Experience the magic of live theatre at Prince Edward Theatre, a historic venue in London’s vibrant West End, showcasing spectacular performances.
Palace Theatre
0.1 km
A grand West End theatre since 1891, now home to the magical Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the heart of London’s theatreland.
The Spice Of Life
0.1 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending tradition, vibrant culture, and boutique lodging in the heart of London.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.1 km
Shaftesbury Avenue pulses with theatre lights, historic charm, and vibrant culture at the heart of London’s West End entertainment district.
Chinatown
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors, rich culture, and iconic sights of London’s bustling Chinatown in the heart of the West End.
Ronnie Scott's
0.1 km
Experience world-class live jazz nightly at Ronnie Scott’s, London’s legendary Soho club since 1959, where music history and vibrant atmosphere meet.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Admiral Duncan, Soho's iconic bar and pub, celebrating inclusivity and entertainment in the heart of London.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.1 km
Discover London’s tiniest gallery on Dean Street, where big ideas shine through a small window, open 24/7 to inspire and engage all who pass by.
House of Spells
0.1 km
Step into House of Spells, London’s enchanting two-floor shop offering authentic Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles in a magical, immersive setting.
Charing Cross Rd
0.1 km
Explore Charing Cross Road, London’s iconic street famed for legendary bookshops, theatres, and a vibrant cultural pulse in the West End.
St Anne's Churchyard
0.1 km
A serene historic garden in Soho, resting on centuries of rich cultural and social heritage beneath its raised grounds.
Essential places to dine
Gauthier Soho
0.1 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Meet Fresh
0.1 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
0.1 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Hoppers Soho
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Quo Vadis
0.2 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Evelyn's Table
0.2 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Noble Rot Soho
0.2 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
J Sheekey
0.3 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Blacklock Soho
0.3 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Bantof
0.3 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Inamo
0.3 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.3 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutik
0.1 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
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.
Unique Britain
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Machine-A
0.2 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.3 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.3 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
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.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Sounds of the Universe
0.3 km
Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates
0.3 km
Artisan chocolate craftsmanship in the heart of Soho, where award-winning sea salted caramels and inventive flavours await.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.3 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.3 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Book
0.1 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.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.1 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Ku Bar
0.1 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Bar Termini
0.1 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Swift Soho
0.1 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.2 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.2 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.2 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.2 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.2 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.3 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Thin White Duke
0.3 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Prelude by Oriole
0.3 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.3 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Duke of Argyll
0.3 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Ivy Club
0.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
La Capannina Club
0.2 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
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.
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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.2 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.
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 Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.3 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.3 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
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.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Roxy
0.4 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.
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.
Bordello London
0.5 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
