Electric Cinema London

Overview

The Electric Cinema on Portobello Road in Notting Hill is one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas still operating in the United Kingdom. Opened in 1910 and designed by architect Gerald S. Valentin, it has been entertaining London audiences for over a century. Its Grade II* listed Edwardian Baroque terracotta façade is an unmistakable landmark on one of Londons most vibrant market streets. Today operated by Soho House Group, it offers a luxury film-going experience with leather armchairs, footstools, and in-seat food and drink service that honours the buildings long heritage.

Architecture

Valentin designed the Electric Cinema in the late Edwardian Baroque manner, producing a decorative terracotta and red brick façade richly ornamented with classical pilasters, arched windows, and sculptural reliefs. The building occupies a narrow plot on Portobello Road, its vertical composition drawing the eye upward to a stepped parapet crowned with ornamental stonework. The original ornate interior has been sympathetically restored and modernised, retaining the intimate single-screen auditorium plan typical of early cinema houses while introducing contemporary luxury seating and acoustics.

History

The Electric Cinema opened in 1910, one of the first purpose-built cinemas in Britain at a time when cinema was still a novelty entertainment. It changed hands and names several times during the twentieth century, variously operating as the Imperial Playhouse and the Electric Cinema Club before reverting to the Electric. After decades of changing fortunes and periods of closure, the Soho House Group acquired the building around 2000 and reopened it in 2002 following a full restoration. A fire in June 2012 caused damage, but the cinema was restored and reopened the same year, and it remains one of London's most beloved independent cinema destinations.

Interior

The single-screen auditorium seats approximately 100 guests in a tiered arrangement of large leather armchairs, two-seat sofas, and front-row double beds — an arrangement unique among London cinemas. The décor combines restored Edwardian plasterwork and mouldings with modern lighting and a state-of-the-art projection and sound system. Side booths along the walls offer private viewing spaces for small groups. The adjacent Electric Diner serves American-influenced food and cocktails before and after screenings.

Visiting

The Electric Cinema screens a programme of new releases, arthouse films, and classics throughout the week. Tickets can be booked online at electriccinema.co.uk. Member priority booking applies to Soho House members. Childrens screenings on weekend mornings welcome family audiences.

Getting There

191 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2ED, United Kingdom. Nearest tube: Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle, District lines), 10-minute walk north along Pembridge Road. Bus routes 7, 23, and 328 serve Portobello Road.

In the Area

The Electric Cinema sits at the heart of Portobello Road Market, Londons celebrated antiques and street food destination, busiest on Saturdays. Nearby: Notting Hill Gate, the Museum of Brands, and the Leighton House Museum are all within a 15-minute walk.