Catch a Christmas Film at These Festive Cinemas

Here’s where to find screenings of all your favourite Christmas films in London

Mince pies are hitting the shelves, Christmas lights are switching on, Mariah Carey is on the radio, and seasonal cinemas are popping up across town – yes, the holidays are well on their way. And there’s no better way to get into the spirit than by watching a classic Christmas film, with a mulled wine in hand. Luckily, loads of London’s cinemas are decking their halls and putting on special screenings of the best festive flicks, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.

It’s not just established cinemas getting involved, beloved venues across town are transforming movie theatres just for the occasion. Some of these are *extra* special – expect winter wonderland-themed screens and multi-course tasting menus to accompany your movie. And each spot will be showing a wide range of holiday movies, so whether you’re strictly interested in the classics à la It’s a Wonderful Life, or you belong to the ‘Gremlins IS a Christmas movie’ camp, you won’t be disappointed.


The Luna Cinema – taking over Kensington Palace Pavilion from 11th – 15th December 2023, The Luna Cinema is back with another packed programme of Christmas classics. Settle in on a sofa, director’s chair or beanbag to catch screenings of Love Actually, Die Hard, Miracle on 34th Street, The Holiday, Elf, Edward Scissorhands and more with mugs of hot choc and mulled wine. Get tickets here.

Rivoli Ballroom – Brockley’s famous 1950s-era ballroom is getting a Christmas makeover as its seasonal pop-up cinema is making a return. Expect screenings of Home Alone, Gremlins, Elf, Die Hard, Love Actually and more, plus a stall serving cinema snacks and mulled wine. Get tickets here.

Eventim Apollo – four Christmas classics are hitting the big screen and getting the live orchestra treatment this December. The Holiday, The Muppets Christmas Carol, and Love Actually are being played with a live musical score at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith. Get tickets here.

Kitchen at Holmes – head up to the roof of Kitchen at Holmes on Baker Street and you’ll find a secret festive rooftop cinema, complete with Christmas trees, fur throws and fairy lights. Cosy up for a holiday classic, choose from the likes of The Holiday, Love Actually, A Miracle on 34th Street, and Scrooged. Plus, you’ll also get fed as they’ll be serving up a seasonal tasting menu in the restaurant beforehand. Feast on burrata with roasted oyster mushroom, presa de Iberico and courgette spaghetti, paired with a glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut. Get tickets here.

BFI Southbank – masters of seasonal programming, the BFI Southbank will be screening a range of certified Christmas classics throughout December, with some less obvious picks thrown in too. Head over for your annual viewing of Elf (at the IMAX), The Muppet Christmas Carol or Miracle on 34th Street, or catch a cult fave you’ve not seen before (such as Tokyo Godfathers or Tangerine). Get tickets here.

One Aldwych Hotel – this luxury hotel in the heart of Covent Garden has its very own cinema, powered by Curzon. The cosy little 30-seater will be screening favourites such as Love Actually, It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, Elf and Miracle on 34th Street, plus, each screening will be accompanied by dinner at the hotel’s resident restaurant, Indigo, and a glass of Chapel Down fizz. Get tickets here.

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