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

A Historic Icon of London’s Cinema Culture

The Odeon Luxe Leicester Square stands as a monumental testament to London’s cinematic heritage. Completed in 1937 in the distinctive Art Deco style by architects Harry Weedon and Andrew Mather, it was originally built as the flagship venue for Oscar Deutsch’s Odeon Cinemas chain. The building’s striking black polished granite facade and 120-foot tower, outlined in blue neon at night, dominate the eastern side of Leicester Square. The cinema opened with the film "The Prisoner of Zenda" and quickly became a central hub for film premieres, hosting over 500, including royal and world premieres attended by notable figures such as Queen Elizabeth II and Marilyn Monroe.

Architectural Elegance Meets Modern Luxury

While honoring its original Art Deco roots, the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square underwent a comprehensive £10–15 million refurbishment completed in December 2018. This renovation transformed the cinema into one of Europe’s most advanced and luxurious venues. The interior retains signature design elements such as ribbed ceilings and faux-leopard skin motifs on carpets, while upgrading seating to spacious recliners and rocker chairs that replace the cramped original layout. Oscar’s Bar, a stylish cocktail lounge named after the chain’s founder, offers guests a sophisticated pre-show experience with panoramic views over Leicester Square.

State-of-the-Art Dolby Cinema Technology

Odeon Luxe Leicester Square proudly hosts the UK’s first Dolby Cinema, combining Dolby Vision dual-laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound technology. This cutting-edge setup delivers vibrant colors, deep contrast, and immersive, object-based audio through over 400 speakers, creating a powerful cinematic experience. The main auditorium seats around 800 guests, with the sound system carefully designed to envelop the audience, particularly in the central stalls where the audio impact is strongest. The venue also supports all digital sound formats and features retractable screens and stage facilities for special events.

A Destination for Film Lovers and Premiere Events

More than just a cinema, Odeon Luxe Leicester Square is a cultural landmark and a focal point for London’s film industry. It regularly hosts major film premieres, including recent world debuts such as "Avatar: The Way of Water" and "Dune: Part Two." The venue’s blend of historic grandeur and modern amenities attracts tourists, locals, and industry professionals alike. Its location in Leicester Square places it at the heart of London’s entertainment district, surrounded by theaters, restaurants, and nightlife.

Guest Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Odeon Luxe Leicester Square enjoy a premium experience from start to finish. The cinema offers luxury recliner seating with ample personal space, an elevated food and drink menu available at Oscar’s Bar and concession stands, and enhanced restroom facilities designed to match the venue’s upscale ambiance. The cinema’s staff aim to provide attentive service to complement the high-end environment. Accessibility features accommodate a broad audience, making it welcoming for families, couples, and solo visitors.

Preserving Legacy While Embracing Innovation

Odeon Luxe Leicester Square exemplifies how historic venues can evolve to meet contemporary expectations without losing their unique character. Its successful integration of Art Deco aesthetics, luxury comfort, and advanced audiovisual technology sets a benchmark for cinemas worldwide. As the flagship of the Odeon Luxe brand, it continues to shape the future of film exhibition while celebrating nearly a century of cinematic tradition.