Manchester’s finest secret silver screens…
There’s nothing better than a trip to your local cinema to see the newest blockbuster film or indie gem. However, with our picks, you can forget uncomfortable seating and overpriced popcorn. The venues on our list are all individually unique, boutique and a couple are even dog-friendly.
HOME
HOME is a destination where you can enjoy independent films from all over the globe alongside some of Hollywood’s latest releases. With five cinema screens, two huge theatres plus a bars and restaurant, HOME is a truly impressive building. Perfect for both culture and cinema lovers, it has a large selection of films that you wouldn’t get the chance to see in your local multiplex.
It also holds special events that change seasonally, such as contemporary art exhibitions in its downstairs gallery and film director Q&As. Have time to kill before your film? Why not order a drink or two at the cinema bar and enjoy it on their outdoor roof terrace (if it’s not raining, that is). They also serve up a delicious roast on a Sunday in their first-floor restaurant, among many other scrumptious dishes. If this sounds up your street – and you fancy a trip to a stylish cinema with comfy seats and good food — best visit HOME.
View this post on Instagram
Savoy cinema
The Savoy Cinema is a great place to visit if you want to enter a classic cinema building while supporting a family business at the same time. Located in Stockport, The Savoy Cinema is one of four classic picture houses that a family has brought back to life through a complete refurbishment. Here, they have created a truly special venue that respects the character of the original architecture while providing a luxury cinema experience. The venue is so impressive, couples have even got married here.
From the drinks and nibbles to the snug velvet sofa seats, this venue is certainly worth your time. In classic cinema style, they also have an interval during their screenings so you can tuck into an ice cream and top up on drinks. As well as all of this, the Savoy Cinema holds a pizza club every month in collaboration with I Knead Pizza, where you can enjoy a freshly made slice as your cinema snack. Aside from new releases, they also screen opera, ballet, and other special concert performances. You’ll feel right at home and a part of the community by supporting this family business.
View this post on Instagram
Chapeltown Picture House
This is one for all the cinema nerds and film fanatics. Chapeltown Picture House is a quirky cinema spot that screens everything but the newest releases. They specialise in cult, classic, and independent films with video games and quizzes too. This is certainly one for all the film buffs and gamers out there as it has everything under one roof. What’s more, every other month they present Manchester’s only cult film pub quiz that’s actually hosted inside a cinema. Impressive, right? You can expect some top notch prizes too, like a gallon of larger plus a whole month of free cinema tickets to CPH screenings.
This little indie cinema is the full package, with tickets selling at only £5 per screening. Plus, if you fancy a bite to eat before or after your film, Chapeltown is located inside street food venue GRUB where they regularly house an ever-changing array of hot food traders. With dogs welcome and new events added every week, it’s worth keeping an eye on their listings for your favourite film. They also host the occasional Q&A with film directors.
View this post on Instagram
Mini Cini
The Mini Cini is a real treat for those with two legs or four. This homey mini-cinema is located in Ducie Street Warehouse and screens a range of movies, from Tuesday rom-coms, to cult classics on a Thursday. As a part of the popular workspace on the edge of the Northern Quarter, this pick gives off the vibe of a classic intimate cinema, primarily because it only seats up to 36 people – so try to be quiet when rusting your popcorn.
Best of all, this place is dog friendly. They even hold screenings especially aimed at you and your canine companion. These take place on a Monday during Pawpcorn night, where you can watch classic films that features Oscar-worthy dogs. So, instead of snuggling up on the sofa like every other night, treat your pooch to a movie on the big screen and you to a cocktail, delivered direct to your seat.
View this post on Instagram
The Everyman
Why not combine a night at the cinema with five star waiter service? The Everyman is truly a late-night treat. Aside from screening the latest releases, this cinema with a modern twist has a large menu of sweet treats, savoury snacks and hot food. Where else can you tuck into a gourmet burger or a thick creamy milkshake whilst sat in the cinema? Before your film gets going, order food and drinks at the bar. Then, during the trailers, a member of staff will bring it to the little table next to your seat.
These are not your ordinary cinema seats either; these are luxury two-seater sofas complete with luxurious cushions. Just like your sofa at home – but better. Just try not to fall asleep half way through the film. Another unique aspect of this venue is the film introduction at the start of the screening. Before the film begins, a member of staff stands at the front of the screen on a small stage to introduce your chosen film and welcome you on your visit. This is the perfect place to switch up your date night, or to see a highly anticipated release in style.
View this post on Instagram
