The Nickel Cinema London

Rebel Cinema in Clerkenwell

Ramona from London

"The Nickel Cinema is a 37-seat gem that revives NYC grindhouse spirit with little-known films and a vintage-filled bar. Unmissable for true film lovers!"

The Nickel Cinema is definitely out of keeping with London's mainstream, glossy cinemas that serve gourmet burgers and predictable Hollywood releases. The 37-seater cinema and bar below it is pure DIY aesthetic, with lots of plywood and hand-written signs. The founder wanted to channel the spirit of New York City's "grindhouse" cinemas, which showed low-budget and controversial films in often seedy venues.

This modern incarnation is anything but seedy, though it's an open clubhouse for those who love film, and a wonderful gem to watch provocative, innovative, and often little-known films. The bar below is a great place to grab a drink, admire the vintage film Paraphernalia and mingle with other cinema-goers. While it may cost more than a nickel (five cents), it's also extremely good value at about £10 per ticket. Go to discover and be challenged, and also to enjoy the rare privilege of a highly personal film project in central London.

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London Spotter Ramona

Hello! I'm a born New Yorker, adopted Londoner, and occasional Berliner. I've been in London on and off since 1995, and every time I move back to the city, it has changed yet again. Neighbourhoods transform, green spaces and cycling become more available, and entrepreneurs set up businesses that improve and diversify the food and coffee scene. It's always vibrant and always changing. My work includes running a new publishing start-up, working on better politics and local energy initiatives, and supporting impact founders, among other things! I go everywhere on my bike, which me...

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117-119 Clerkenwell Road

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Dec 3, 2025

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