West End Cinemas

[Maydup]

Do they get impossibly busy?

Living in rural Norfolk we're used to there being just one man and his dog in the cinema when we go! But we're off to London for a few days and thought we might catch a new film in Shaftesbury Ave or Leicester Sq if we have a rainy day. Can you just walk up or is it essentual to book?

[rockyracoon]

I don't go to the pictures in London a lot, if I remember rightly it was a lot more expensive than outer London cinemas. I'm inclined to say, don't waste your time as there's so much more you could do and see and you can go to the flicks anytime.

As for prebooking, keep your eye on the weather and jst pop along that day to buy the tickets. When are you going?

[Zacs-Master]

They're in colour now you know.

[Dee Sa]

should be okay for the cinema might have a queue but you wont wait that long. If your passing a theatre and you fancy seeing that show pop in to their box office and see if they have seats available or any returns you can get lucky sometimes. Alternative use the half price ticket hut in Leicester Square from 2pm you can miss it , a little green hut at the bottom of the square. Dont pay touts prices.Hope you enjoy your stay and the weather isnt too bad for you.

[emmie]

go to an early midday show and you won't have a problem, also depends on the film, some will be packed for a few days then go quiet ish, be prepared for the cost, can be an arm and a leg. Last time i ventured forth cost 15 quid
1 ticket.

[Maydup]

Rockyr - We have loads planned but thought we'd have a change from seeing a show in the evening. Thought the cinema might be good rather than stay in hotel or sit in pub.

Zacs - And even 3D I hear!

[Maydup]

Thanks Dee and Em.

[Zacs-Master]

He he.

[rockyracoon]

Whatever you decide Maidup, I hope you have a great time.

[emmie]

look on line to see what's on, Odeon, or any west end cinemas. You may be better off seeing a show, as dee says go to the little ticket box office right in Leicester square. If you go to see a film it's the drinks and food that also cost, so don't do it. If you want a light meal there are several places, pubs next door to the main Odeon cinema in LS

[Maydup]

Thanks - looking forward to it. Its our Christmas present to each other and a short break after working over Christmas.

[snags]

If you can go on a Wednesday and have an Orange mobile or no someone who does, send the word FILM to 241, you'll receive a text code reference number that'll get 2 for 1 entry (i.e. half price).

[emmie]

sit in pub for an hour, much more fun people watching that much of what will be on the screen. When are you coming?

[snags]

^ 'know' someone

[emmie]

Some of the cinemas have cheaper tickets on Monday earlier showings..

[Maydup]

Em - We often eat in Stock Pot just off Haymarket. Really reasonable and good traditional food. As you say, loads of options around especially if you eat earlier.

[craft1948]

If you go to the cinema in Leicester Square you can nip to Chinatown for a meal.........

[Maydup]

^^ Good idea Craft

Quite fancy Les Mis (film) or Life of Pi.

If not a few drinks in Soho or a ticket booth bargain.

[emmie]

Les Mis will get packed, there is an enormous fan base, including me of the show, and will be early awaiting the film. I believe you have to book for it.
Have a look at the Odeon website they will give all info. Life of Pi is on, not sure where though. doubt that would get packed out, perhaps go for that.

[emmie]

i steer clear of chinatown, to me it's mucho ripoff. I guess if it's a treat then go for it. Know the stockpot well, good grub.. very popular place.
Pubs abound in the area, always a good place for a bite to eat. If you like something with some history try the Lamb and Flag.. see if can find link.

[craft1948]

I can't remember the name of the place I used to go to in Chinatown (20 years ago) but it was excellent. We used to go upstairs and it had a large fountain on the ground floor. It was extremely basic but great value......