Whether you’re planning a city break or your next film night, the North is full of characterful independent cinemas, historic picture houses and seasonal open-air cinemas. Better still, most are only a short walk from the station.
From restored picture houses to screenings beneath the stars, this guide is ideal for film fans looking for something different. Grab your popcorn and discover some of the best independent cinemas and outdoor screenings across Northern’s network of 500+ destinations.
You can also pair this guide with our film and TV locations in the North, featuring famous screen spots in Manchester, Liverpool, York, Leeds and Newcastle. Or browse our days out by train for more inspiration.
Manchester
HOME Manchester and the First Street outdoor screen
Nearest station: Manchester Oxford Road
Distance from station: 5-minute walk
HOME Manchester brings cinema, theatre and contemporary art together under one roof. This independent arts charity has five screens showing new releases, international films, independent work, festivals and special events.
Outside HOME, the First Street Manchester hosts seasonal entertainment, including live sport, free film screenings and family events.
For a Manchester outdoor cinema experience, check the summer listings before travelling, as the outdoor screen is seasonal.
CULTPLEX Manchester
Nearest station: Manchester Victoria
Distance: from station 15-minute walk
For an independent cinema Manchester film fans won’t forget, head to CULTPLEX Manchester in the Green Quarter.
CULTPLEX began at GRUB, an independent street-food venue, in 2019. It has since built a loyal following for cult classics, horror, independent films, themed screenings, quizzes, festivals and video-game events. Its programme offers something a little different from your average multiplex.
Liverpool
Picturehouse at FACT
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Distance from station: 10-minute walk
Picturehouse at FACT Liverpool combines film, art and digital culture in one creative venue.
It has three main screens and a bar, joined by a programme of new releases, independent films, international cinema, documentaries and live broadcasts.
FACT also has a boutique cinema space, The Box, which is used for community- and artist-led screenings.
While Picturehouse runs the main screens, FACT’s exhibitions and creative programme make it a strong choice for anyone exploring cinemas in Liverpool centre.
During your visit, it’s worth checking listings for seasonal open-air cinema events in Liverpool. Beyond the city centre, Woolton Picture House is also worth a visit and is showing selected weekend screenings while refurbishment continues.
Sheffield
Showroom Cinema
Nearest station: Sheffield
Distance from station: 2-minute walk
Showroom Cinema Sheffield sits just across from Sheffield station, making it one of the easiest independent cinemas to reach by train.
Opened in 1995, it’s known for an award-winning programme of major releases, independent films, documentaries, international cinema, festivals and work from emerging filmmakers. There’s also a café bar next door for a relaxed film-led day out.
Leeds
Hyde Park Picture House
Nearest station: Burley Park
Distance from station: 10-minute walk
Dating back to 1914, Hyde Park Picture House is one of the UK’s oldest cinemas and one of the most iconic independent cinemas in Leeds. Following a major restoration, the building combines modern comfort with authentic character. Its original auditorium, gas lighting and heritage features have been preserved, alongside a second screen, café bar and community spaces.
Cottage Road Cinema
Nearest station: Headingley
Distance from station: 13-minute walk
A Leeds institution since 1912, Cottage Road Cinema is the UK’s oldest continuously operating independently owned cinema.
It offers a traditional experience with vintage features and the latest releases. Whether you’re planning a date night or family trip, its retro character makes it easy to see why it remains a local favourite.
Newcastle
Tyneside Cinema
Nearest station: Newcastle
Distance from station: 10-minute walk
One of the North East’s most iconic venues, Tyneside Cinema has been showing films since 1937. Its programme includes new releases, international cinema, independent films, festivals and special events.
The historic building has also appeared on screen, including in the BBC drama United. Just a short walk from the station, it’s an easy place to enjoy great film, food and atmosphere in the heart of Newcastle.
Star and Shadow Cinema Co-op
Nearest station: Manors
Distance from station: 16-minute walk
Looking for something more unusual? Star and Shadow Cinema is a community-led venue run by film fans, artists and volunteers.
Its programme covers experimental and independent films, live music, exhibitions, workshops and community events. It’s DIY, creative and ideal for anyone searching for a Newcastle independent cinema with a difference.
Make your next cinema trip by train
From century-old picture houses to films beneath the stars, the North has plenty of places to enjoy the big screen.
Once you’ve picked your film, planning your journey is easy. Book ahead with an Advance ticket, and you could save up to 60%, or travel with a friend using a Duo ticket on selected routes. Heading out with the family? A Northern Family Ticket lets up to two adults and four children travel together on one ticket at a great price.
Then all that’s left to do is grab the popcorn and go do your thing. Plan your journey and buy your tickets in the Northern app, so everything’s sorted before the opening credits.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.