The Odyssey Cinema
The Odyssey Cinema
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
474 reviews
Excellent
404
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Erskinerugg
London, UK13 contributions
The Odyssey is quite unlike the usual multiplexes. It's a wonderfully-restored Art Deco cinema with just one screen, friendly staff and a lovely atmosphere. Because it's independently-owned, it can't compete on cost with the big chains, and that means it doesn't get films until a few weeks after their initial run. But if you don't mind waiting, or have missed something, this is the place to go. The owners did a fantastic job in getting this place re-opened after years of closure, and they deserve supporting. A member of staff comes to the curtain to reduce each film personally—an eccentric touch, loved by the audience.
Just a couple of small minuses. The screen is rather small for this large auditorium so if you choose an ordinary seat instead of the tables downstairs, get as close to the front as you can. Also the sound system is rather ordinary by today's standards with speakers at the front only. However, you'll forget about these shortcomings once you get immersed in the film.
Just a couple of small minuses. The screen is rather small for this large auditorium so if you choose an ordinary seat instead of the tables downstairs, get as close to the front as you can. Also the sound system is rather ordinary by today's standards with speakers at the front only. However, you'll forget about these shortcomings once you get immersed in the film.
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ben M
Watford, UK61 contributions
Right from booking, speaking to a helpful friendly member of the team, through to showing us to our seats, the sound, visual experience, alongside the choice of a simple but delicious menu, and drinks menu makes for a brilliant and uplifting time. The monthly updates of what is being shown makes it fun to look forward to, and the adverts from local businesses make for a real sense of being part of something that is for the local community. If you like cinema, if you like film, if you like history, if you like food, if you like wine, if you like coffee or tea, or sweets!!! Visit the Odyssey
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
julia015
London, UK17 contributions
So thrilled that The Odyssey are now showing National Theatre productions on a regular basis. We're really lucky that London is so convenient, however when we can sit in the luxury of the cinema so close to home, why bother going in on the train to pay such crazy prices. The seats are wonderfully comfortable, the view and sound quality is marvellous, and the drinks and snacks excellent. Kicked off with Fleabag, and saw Present Laughter a couple of days ago. So much more civilised than the local Odeon!!!
Roll on Cyrano de Bergerac.
Roll on Cyrano de Bergerac.
Written February 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
bluebeaver71
Hertfordshire31 contributions
Couples
As a member of the The Rex (sister cinema) we decided to try The Odyssey for ourselves as had heard mixed reviews.
You can clearly see the investment, the screen, seats etc are good but something is missing - warmth, ambience and most importantly it lacks a friendly team.
From the ‘off’ wine that had to be changed to the petty, rude or maybe just naive server who impudently refused to acknowledge an error with our order even though it was caused by the person on the til. Saying that our receipt showed an underpayment of 50p so he could not help us ‘it’s a matter of principle’ is suicidal customer service and having spent nearly £60 on the evening very poor taste too!
Staff training might be in order, particularly in a post pandemic world with an auditorium only a third full on a Friday night. Sigh…
It’s true when they say, you have a great experience you tell 1 person, you have a poor experience you tell 10.
We won’t be hurrying back.
You can clearly see the investment, the screen, seats etc are good but something is missing - warmth, ambience and most importantly it lacks a friendly team.
From the ‘off’ wine that had to be changed to the petty, rude or maybe just naive server who impudently refused to acknowledge an error with our order even though it was caused by the person on the til. Saying that our receipt showed an underpayment of 50p so he could not help us ‘it’s a matter of principle’ is suicidal customer service and having spent nearly £60 on the evening very poor taste too!
Staff training might be in order, particularly in a post pandemic world with an auditorium only a third full on a Friday night. Sigh…
It’s true when they say, you have a great experience you tell 1 person, you have a poor experience you tell 10.
We won’t be hurrying back.
Written April 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
rachsinstalbans
St. Albans, UK6 contributions
Couples
Lovely authentic Art Deco restored movie venue. They have plush velvet seats and serve right snacks at your seat or upgrade to a seat with a table and get wine and cheese with nibbles delivered for you to enjoy. A must try if you are in the area and want to enjoy a great movie experience.
Written June 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JohnBaguley
St. Albans, UK30 contributions
Solo
1917 is a stunning film but to see it in this perfectly restored and updated cinema is a real treat. I love the Art Deco atmos and the really comfy seats to sink into and relax letting the film fill your mind.
If the Odyssey was a spaceship I’d go to Mars - heck I’d just keep going...
If the Odyssey was a spaceship I’d go to Mars - heck I’d just keep going...
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Andrew
St. Albans, UK6,386 contributions
Spent a very pleasant couple of hours at the Odessey cinema in St Albans. We sat downstairs at a table for two; the tables were well spaced out (due to covid-19). The small table between our two chairs allowed us to share refreshments easily; but the chairs were really too far apart for small talk during the movie so next time we may book a sofa.
Very well behaved audience: no chatting (chairs are too far apart downstairs, unless you have a sofa for two); no constant flashing of mobile phone screens being looked at; no noisy food eating. If people need the toilet, or want refreshments, they do not need to push past you – all together an excellent experience
N.B. The Odyssey cinema is named after the 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey” that was produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick who lived locally at Childwickbury Manor.
Very well behaved audience: no chatting (chairs are too far apart downstairs, unless you have a sofa for two); no constant flashing of mobile phone screens being looked at; no noisy food eating. If people need the toilet, or want refreshments, they do not need to push past you – all together an excellent experience
N.B. The Odyssey cinema is named after the 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey” that was produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick who lived locally at Childwickbury Manor.
Written November 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
SophiaH
St. Albans, UK28 contributions
Couples
The Odyssey is a magical cinema that really has a very special vibe. I remember it as derelict for so long, so seeing the Phoenix rise from the flames still stuns me. The transformation is wonderful. I love deco and I love the buzz of sitting in the red velvet seats with a glass of wine with someone I love. It takes you to a simpler happier space than most cinemas and feels like a great night out. Staff presenting the films adds that extra touch. Lucky us!
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kate N
5 contributions
Solo
I love this cinema ,it's stylish, individual and full of character as well as being comfortable and spacious. Makes a nice change from the bland large chain cinemas. Theres a bar in the screen down stairs and they serve plates of cheese and crackers and other snacks. There are cool seating options such as sofas and arm chairs with tables on the ground floor. Great place to go if you want to make more of an event out of going to the cinema.
Written November 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kkhan2017
St. Albans, UK5 contributions
I have been several times - four with my wife and once with our three children. We really enjoyed the fact that it feels so special. It is very well presented. The staff are all charming and the grandeur of the place makes you feel like a celebrity at the Oscars. Definitely going again for upcoming celebrations. I haven't heard any negative experiences from the multiple people i know who have gone.
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
alijanepage
St. Albans, UK
What beverages are on offer to purchase and what seating is best to book for two people
Tasmin100
London, UK123 contributions
Wine, beer and soft drinks. There are sofas, but some of the tables are nicer if you can get a good view. Premium seating is good on the side (not so good on the first level), but the seats come at a slight premium.
Snow white12345677
7 contributions
can you boy gift vouchers
Hello!
We do sell Gift Vouchers!
They can be bought online, by phone or in person.
There is more information on our website 'odysseypictures'
EdwinaTyphoon
Hertfordshire131 contributions
Is there any free on-street parking near the Cinema?
WildSurfer21
St. Albans, UK7 contributions
There is along both sides of the road but it is limited so you need to get there early. The London road carpark at the top of the road is free after 6pm and about a 5 minute walk.
The Odyssey Cinema (St. Albans) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about The Odyssey Cinema
- Hotels near The Odyssey Cinema:
- (0.06 mi) 178 London Road
- (0.09 mi) Fern Cottage
- (0.31 mi) Fleuchary House No. 29
- (0.18 mi) Keyfield Terrace Serviced Apartments
- (0.36 mi) The Samuel Ryder Hotel St Albans, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Restaurants near The Odyssey Cinema:
- (0.02 mi) Great Northern Pub & Kitchen
- (0.03 mi) Nawab St.Albans
- (0.06 mi) Prime Steak & Grill
- (0.08 mi) Chez Mumtaj
- (0.05 mi) Charlie's Coffee and Company