This is a large multi-screen cinema, on High Street Kensington, just past the junction of Earl’s Court Road and opposite the entrance to Holland Park. It’s my local cinema, and it’s good for avoiding the trek into central London to see the latest major releases.

The cinema building is of traditional design: Construction began in 1923-4 and it was opened in 1926. Designed by the architects Julian R. Leathart and W. F. Granger, it was considered to be ‘one of the more interesting and encouraging designs’ in its day. Seating 2,350 in the main auditorium, it was said to be the largest cinema in England at the time.

Although the facade remains intact, inside it has been rebuilt to provide six screens, the largest of which seats 520 people, and the smallest just 66. Screens 4-6 have spaces for wheelchairs, and all the screens (as well as the Box Office and retail points) have hearing loop systems. Guide and hearing dogs are welcome at all showings.

As a commercial cinema, it tends to show mainstream Hollywood and some UK productions. Ticket prices reflect standard (ie high) London cinema prices. They also have a bewildering array of tariffs: the standard peak rate ticket is £13.50 for ‘premier’ (ie wide comfy) seats, and £10.50 for standard seats: off peak - and what defines this varies for children, students and senior citizens - ranges from £6 for Youth Hostel Association members to £7.90 for adults.

Off-peak family tickets are also available for £24, for an adult + 3 children or 2 adults + 2 children. Carers accompanying disabled customers (with a CEA card) go free.

The cinema is ten minutes’ walk (500m) from High Street Kensington station (turn right at the main High Street exit). There’s a bus stop immediately outside, served by buses 9, 10, 27, 28, 49, N9, N10, N28 and N31, and one in Earl’s Court Road (50m away) served by the C1 and 328. There is also a cash-point in the adjacent Post Office and bank. If you want a bite to eat before or after, there are a several restaurants close by.