How to get cheap (and even free) cinema tickets

Cinema trips are brilliant, the best way to watch a new film… until you see the price of the tickets! When you add snacks and beverages, suddenly the “cheap night out” you were hoping for costs more than a takeaway and Netflix combined.

However, you really don’t need to pay full price. From cheap weekday tickets to completely free cinema visits, there are loads of ways to cut the cost if you know where to look.

This guide is for anyone who loves a deal, a freebie, or just refuses to overpay for a trip to the movies.

Why paying full price is a rookie move

Most cinemas have quiet days and empty seats they’re desperate to fill. That’s why discounted tickets, memberships, and 2-for-1 deals exist — and why savvy cinema-goers almost never pay the headline price.

With a little planning, you can:

• Pay £5 or less for a ticket
• Get 2-for-1 deals every week
• Watch films for “free” using subscriptions you already pay for

Let’s break it down.

How to get free cinema tickets

Yes, free cinema tickets are real — and no, you don’t need to win a competition.

Use subscriptions you already pay for

You might already be entitled to free tickets without realising it.

• Sky Cinema subscribers get free Vue tickets every month
• O2 Priority regularly offers cheap or 2-for-1 cinema tickets
• Some banks, insurers, and phone providers include cinema perks
• Always check your existing subscriptions before paying for tickets.

Voucher and deal websites

Discount platforms often run cinema deals, especially during quieter periods.

1. Look out for heavily discounted ticket bundles
2. Family and group deals can be much cheaper than buying separately
3. Deals change often, so it’s worth checking before booking
4. This is especially good if you’re planning ahead.

Cheap cinema tickets by cinema chain

Vue cinemas: one of the cheapest by default

Vue is often the easiest way to get cheap cinema tickets without jumping through hoops.

• Many Vue cinemas offer tickets from around £4.99, especially outside London
• Joining Vue’s free membership gives you access to offers and occasional discounts
• O2 customers can get two tickets for a fixed low price every month
• Sky Cinema subscribers can claim two free Vue tickets each month through the My Sky app

If you’re flexible on times, weekday daytime screenings are usually the cheapest.

Odeon: member mondays and mystery movies

ODEON is great if you’re happy to plan your cinema trips around deals.

• Join ODEON Extras for free and get discounted “Member Monday” tickets
• Screen Unseen showings let you watch a mystery film for a lower price
• If you go often, the myLIMITLESS pass can work out far cheaper than buying individual tickets

You’ll pay extra for IMAX or luxury seats, but standard screenings can be very affordable.

Showcase cinemas: quietly good deals

Showcase doesn’t get talked about as much, but it’s solid for bargain hunters.

• Free Showcase Insider membership
• Saver Monday tickets at reduced prices
• Extra discounts on food and drink once you’re a member

Worth checking if you have one nearby.

Cineworld: best for frequent film fans

If cinema is your hobby, Cineworld’s options can save you serious money.

• Cineworld Unlimited lets you watch as many films as you want for a monthly fee
• Members avoid booking fees and get money off snacks
• Tesco Clubcard points can be swapped for Cineworld tickets, making visits much cheaper

This works best if you go at least twice a month.

Everyman: not cheap, but you can hack it

Everyman is definitely on the luxury end, but there are still ways to soften the blow.

• Membership bundles bring the average ticket price down
• Some locations offer “bring a friend” deals on quieter days

Not a freebie favourite, but worth it if you want the experience without paying full price every time.

Simple tricks to always pay less

Go off-peak

Midweek, mornings, and early afternoon showings are almost always cheaper than evenings and weekends.

Watch out for booking fees

Online booking is convenient, but it sometimes adds fees. If you’re nearby, buying tickets at the cinema can occasionally save money.

Use family and group tickets

Even if you’re not a “traditional” family, group tickets can still work out cheaper per person.

The bottom line

Cinema tickets don’t have to be expensive — and they definitely don’t need to be full price.

If you’re flexible with times, sign up for free memberships, and make use of perks you already have, you can:

• Watch films for under £5
• Get regular 2-for-1 deals
• Or even go for free

Once you start stacking these tricks, paying full price will feel like a scam.