Vue, Odeon, Cineworld guidelines on bringing snacks – and one factor that is banned

Most cinemas are relaxed about customers bringing in certain food and drink items, but the rules can vary from chain to chain

In recent years, most UK cinemas have relaxed their rules around bringing in your own food and drink. But while some snacks are fine, the rules about what you can take into the screening can vary between chains.

Bringing your own food and drink can save you money on a cinema trip. The cost of popcorn, nachos and other treats can quickly mount up, especially if you’re buying snacks for the entire family.

Vue, Odeon, Cineworld and Showcase all say they don’t mind people bringing in their own refreshments, although there are some exceptions. However, one thing all the chains had in common is that they didn’t allow cinemagoers to bring their own alcohol. While some cinemas now serve alcoholic drinks, bringing your own bottle is a big no-no.

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Food and drink policies for cinema chains

Odeon

Odeon cinemas don’t allow you to bring in heated food, strong-smelling food or alcoholic beverages from outside. The Odeon Islington Luxe and Dine also doesn’t permit you to bring your own food or drink.

Showcase

Like Odeon, Showcase cinemas do not permit customers to bring in hot food or alcoholic drinks. They’ve also put a ban on glass containers within their premises.

Vue

Cinemagoers are not allowed to bring or consume any hot food or alcohol bought outside of Vue cinemas. Like Showcase and Odeon, Vue cinemas offer a range of food and drinks for purchase.

Cineworld

At Cineworld cinemas, only hot food and alcohol purchased on-site can be enjoyed. Cinemagoers are barred from bringing in their own, but they’re allowed to pack cold snacks and soft drinks.

Everyman

Everyman cinemas have a strict policy that only food and beverages bought at the cinema can be consumed in their screens. Each Everyman cinema features a fully licensed bar and serves both hot and cold food.