Top Cinemas in Liverpool for Movie Lovers

Liverpool’s cinema scene has options for big-screen blockbusters, indie hidden gems, and cult classics for nostalgic rewatching to please all audiences. The city showcases a wide range of cinematic options from vintage theatres with traditional appeal to high-tech multiplexes equipped with reclining seats.

If you’re planning a visit to Liverpool, there’s no better way to round off a day of sightseeing than with a trip to the cinema. Thanks to the central locations of many of these venues, staying nearby is easy. With serviced apartments throughout Liverpool, you can catch a film and be back at your accommodation within minutes.

Let’s take a closer look at Liverpool’s top cinemas and what makes them such a must for film fans.

Cinema Liverpool: Top 9 Cinemas for Movie Lovers!

1. FACT Liverpool: The City’s Cultural Heart of Film

FACT is a multidimensional arts center that operates beyond traditional cinema at its Wood Street location in Ropewalks. The venue shows independent films, world cinema, documentaries, live-streamed events, and mainstream releases on a regular basis.

It makes itself known through its commitment to storytelling across various formats. The film schedule at the venue includes art exhibitions and digital installations, creating exciting experiences each time you visit. 

The intimate cinema screens provide well-equipped viewing with comfortable seating and clear sound to deliver the near-screen experience all movie lovers enjoy. It's an excellent choice if you want to explore unconventional cinematic creations beyond standard movies.

2. Everyman Cinema: Luxurious Lounging and Elevated Film Nights

Everyman Cinema at Metquarter transforms your standard movie experience into a glamorous evening. This location is very popular in Liverpool because of its luxurious interiors, velvet seating, and personalised in-seat cocktail-and-pizza delivery. Experiencing a movie at this venue transforms it into something special beyond your typical evening out.

The Liverpool branch of Everyman Cinema attracts couples and small groups who enjoy a cosy and laid-back movie experience. The programme presents an eclectic mix including new releases, indie favourites, live theatre, and opera broadcasts. Their curated ‘rerun’ nights showcase classic films from the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s, providing a nostalgic experience for movie lovers who crave nostalgia.

3. Odeon Liverpool ONE: The Blockbuster Experience

Odeon Cinema Liverpool ONE provides complete satisfaction for big-screen action movies with powerful surround sound and massive screens. Located in Liverpool’s shopping district center, this cinema belongs to a large entertainment complex, featuring dining options and retail outlets.

The main attraction at Odeon is its IMAX screen, which is popular for displaying action-packed films, superhero sagas, and visually stunning features. You'll get to enjoy their recliner seats and numerous refreshment choices, including popcorn, nachos, slushies, and hot dogs.

4. Picturehouse at FACT: Small, Stylish, and Story-Focused

Despite FACT’s reputation for its extensive arts offerings, the Picturehouse cinema deserves its own special attention. This location, with its three small screens and cosy seating, welcomes visitors who value both the content and the venue of their cinematic experience.

The programming at Picturehouse leans towards thought-provoking cinema, showcasing independent British films, international language features, and documentaries that provoke discussion. The venue hosts numerous director Q&As, panel discussions, and preview nights to provide you with opportunities to explore your movie experiences further.

5. Cineworld Speke: A Solid Choice Outside the City Centre

Cineworld Speke is a dependable option for movie-going when you're staying at the outskirts of Liverpool or flying into Liverpool John Lennon Airport. You'll find Cineworld Speke nestled inside the New Mersey Shopping Park, where it has comfortable seating, numerous screens, and a wide range of showtimes throughout the day until the evening.

Cineworld Speke lacks the intimate atmosphere of smaller cinemas, but excels in providing easy access for its visitors. The multiplex attracts families and shoppers who want to enjoy a movie before or after a shopping spree or dining experience. It features modern designs, cleanliness, and provides cutting-edge projection and sound systems.

6. Woolton Picture House: Historic Charm in the Suburbs

The Woolton Picture House is one of Liverpool's most cherished historical cinemas. Since its opening year of 1927, this cinema has maintained its initial appeal through its single-screen auditorium and vintage design elements, creating a deeply nostalgic setting.

The cinema features only one screen, limiting its film options, yet this limitation is offset by its atmosphere and character. The Picture House offers a peaceful alternative when you want to escape to a quieter setting in the suburbs.

7. Vue Cinema Birkenhead: Across the Water, Worth the Trip

Vue Cinema sits just beyond Liverpool in Birkenhead, yet is known as a popular destination for Wirral residents and those prepared to travel over the River Mersey. It has multiple screens, affordable tickets, and diverse food and drink choices. It's a great venue if you live nearby or if you're taking a short trip to the city.

The Vue Birkenhead cinema exists within a larger entertainment complex that features a bowling alley and numerous restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a full night's entertainment. If you're looking for more than just city centre attractions, you can enjoy a relaxing experience by taking either a ferry ride or a Merseyrail trip.

8. Nordic Film Liverpool: A Hidden Gem for International Cinema Lovers

Within the stunning Gustav Adolf Church at Park Lane lies a memorable cinema experience that screens films from both Scandinavia and the broader Nordic region. It’s not your typical movie night. 

At Nordic Film Liverpool, you won't see typical popcorn munchers watching big-budget blockbusters because the programming consists of thought-provoking dramas, dark comedies, gripping thrillers, and award-winning indie gems. The cosy atmosphere fosters a friendly vibe that makes it different from your typical outings at the movies.

9. Plaza Community Cinema: A Vintage Favourite in Waterloo

A few train stops away from Liverpool city centre lies Waterloo's Plaza Community Cinema, a favourite local destination that will transport you back to earlier times. The Art Deco Plaza Community Cinema located on Crosby Road North has provided entertainment since 1939 and continues to do so through the dedication of volunteer staff who help it operate.

The Plaza offers more than its retro design and vintage appeal (despite the eye-catching neon sign), it's the atmosphere. It creates an ambiance where you experience local warmth and a welcoming environment. 

Watching a new release, classic film, or National Theatre Live performance at this cinema delivers a more intimate experience than you would find at a regular chain cinema. It has refreshingly affordable prices that make it an excellent choice for families and those who are looking for activities on a budget. 

This cinema welcomes everyone as it frequently organises autism-friendly and dementia-friendly screenings. It continues to keep its reputation of having community unity, while its ongoing refurbishments give it its modern appeal and historic essence.

Where to Stay: Film Nights Made Easy

Your Perfect Stay's apartments in major neighbourhoods such as the Georgian Quarter, Ropewalks, Liverpool ONE, and the Albert Dock put you just steps away from the city’s top movie theatres. Knowing your apartment lies right around the corner provides comfort after returning from a night out at the movies. 

The city of Liverpool is the ultimate destination for film lovers. The city's cinemas provide entertainment options for lovers of Oscar-worthy dramas, rom coms, arthouse films, and cult classics. Create the ultimate movie experience by combining Your Perfect Stay serviced apartments with your cinematic experience in the city!

Cinema Liverpool: FAQs

1. Which cinemas stand out as the top choices in Liverpool city centre?

FACT on Wood Street is known for indie and international movies, while Everyman Cinema offers a luxurious experience in the Metquarter. Odeon Liverpool ONE shows blockbusters and IMAX films.

2. What cinema should I visit in Liverpool to watch independent films?

FACT is Liverpool's top destination for independent film screenings and documentary cinema. The Picturehouse cinema at FACT conducts Q&A sessions and hosts various film festivals and special screenings.

3. Are there any luxury cinemas in Liverpool?

Yes. Everyman Cinema features luxurious reclining velvet seats, gourmet dining, cocktails, and personal seat service. It's one of the best spots for romantic dates and casual movie watching.

4. Does Liverpool host any historic cinemas that provide a valuable visit?

Woolton Picture House is the oldest cinematic institution in Liverpool with its origins tracing back to 1927. The cinema keeps its historic elegance, providing classic single-screen movie viewings.

5. Which cinemas are close to serviced apartments?

Guests at Your Perfect Stay apartments can easily walk to numerous cinemas. FACT, Odeon, and Everyman are some of the main cinemas that are close to the city centre.

6. Do any Liverpool cinemas offer autism-friendly screenings? 

Absolutely. Showings at both Plaza Community Cinema and Showcase Cinema de Lux have regular autism-friendly accommodations. During these screenings, the lighting is softer, the sound volume is reduced, and audience members can move about in a relaxed setting.