Cinemas in Richmond

Richmond's three cinemas sit close together, and two of them share a name. ODEON Richmond is the historic one on Hill Street, and the Cinemas in Richmond upon Thames page notes its seven screens are split across two separate sites rather than one building. Reviewers keep coming back to Screen 1 for its sound and atmosphere, but they also describe the seating as uncomfortable and the building as shabby and dated. Our verdict: best for older children and adults who want the character of an old cinema at accessible prices, and worth avoiding for anything over 90 minutes. Trailers run up to 20 minutes, so a slightly late arrival is viable. It has a cafe, wheelchair access and room for prams.

ODEON Richmond Studio is the Red Lion Street site. Reviews call it affordable and local, but the screens are very small, sound bleeds between rooms, and side seats have restricted sightlines, so aim for the centre rows. Toilets are clean and pram access runs throughout. It suits families with younger children who want a cheap, easy trip over a premium picture.

Curzon Richmond is the highest rated of the three at 4.4. The same source describes it as a grand 1914 cinema designed like a theatre, with ornate pillars and heavy curtains around the screen, on a cobbled street by the Thames. Reviewers praise the cozy atmosphere and varied programme of independent, art house and classic titles, but note cramped seating and a need for modernisation. Keep to films under two hours. The toilets are directly in front of the screen, so take aisle seats if bathroom trips are likely, and there are no drinks holders, so cups stay in your bag. A cafe serves coffee before and after screenings.