Vue, Odeon, Cineworld, Showcase and Everyman cinema rules for taking own food and drink

Heading to the cinema is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy. It's an excellent option if you're looking for something to do, especially with the colder months creeping up and outdoor activities not ideal.

With the ongoing cost of living crisis and people trying to stretch their money as far as possible, the cost of cinema trips can quickly add up as the cost of treats such as popcorn, drinks and other snacks can be quite expensive.

Cinema food and drink are typically priced much higher than they would be in a supermarket, and let's face it, most of us have snuck in our own treats at some point to save a bit of money. But is all this secrecy really necessary?

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We asked Vue, Odeon, Cineworld, Showcase and Everyman for their policies on customers bringing their own food and drink into their cinemas. Here's what they had to say:

Vue

Vue has cinemas in locations across the UK including Birkenhead and Southport and when asked about customers bringing their own snacks and drinks into the cinema with them a spokesperson told the ECHO: "Vue is proud to offer a wide variety of food and drink with a range of exciting combos available from just £3.99.

"Many of our sites feature draught beer taps and Coke Freestyle machines mixing over 100 flavours at the touch of a screen as well as offering a range of snacks and drinks including Tango Ice Blasts, pick n' mix, milkshakes and hot food including the likes of customisable nachos and hot dogs.

"Of course, if film fans would prefer, they can bring in their own cold snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to ensure all our guests have the best experience possible."

Odeon

Odeon cinemas are located at Liverpool ONE and Switch Island, as well as numerous other locations across the North West and the UK. The cinema chain welcomes guests to enjoy a variety of cinema classics like popcorn, hot dogs, and nachos. However, Odeon's policy also accommodates those who wish to bring their own snacks and drinks, with certain exceptions.

Stated on Odeon's website: "We have a fantastic range of cinema classics like popcorn, hot dogs and our famous nachos available to buy in cinema, but we do allow guests to bring in their own snacks and drinks." This does not include heated food, "pungent food", or alcoholic beverages.

The website advises: "If you're unsure, please ask any member of our team in the cinema who will be happy to advise you. Please be advised the Odeon Islington Luxe and Dine does not allow you to take your own food."

Cineworld

Cineworld has venues in Speke, St Helens, and across the UK. They have a clear stance on bringing your own food and drink into the cinema, Cineworld's website clearly states: "Cineworld has a strict NO HOT FOOD OR ALCOHOL policy."

Customers are advised that entry may be refused if they attempt to bring hot food or alcohol purchased elsewhere into the cinema. The policy is communicated through signage at all Cineworld cinemas.

Showcase

Showcase is one of the smallest cinema chains with just 17 cinemas, including one on East Lancs Road. It has its own rules concerning what can be brought inside. Showcase's website states: "We do not allow guests to bring hot food, alcoholic beverages and drinks in glass containers into our buildings."

Everyman

Everyman Cinema was established in 2000, with Liverpool's Everyman Cinema first opening its doors in 2018. It has become one of the popular spots for a cosy date night in the city.

There is a blanket ban on guests bringing their own snacks or beverages, and a spokesperson told the ECHO: "Please note that only food and drink bought within the cinema is allowed to be taken into the screen."