Hi-tech TVs and streaming services may have changed the way that we watch films, but it’s fair to say that going to the cinema is still a massive draw for millions of Brits ever year.
After all, there’s nothing finer than that distinctive cinema smell and surround-sound experience. However there’s no denying that it can be an expensive trip out. If you’re off on a romantic date or a family flick, you could be paying more than £30 for the pleasure.
It doesn’t have to be so expensive. You can watch the latest, most brilliant films for a lot less than you’d think. Here’s how:
Go on off-peak hours
Did you know that cinema prices can vary hugely depending on the time of day? For instance, if you went to watch a film at the weekend, it could cost you as much as a third more than watching the same movie on a weekday afternoon. So if you’re free at more unsociable times then you’d do well to make the most of the more attractive prices.
Stay away from the Multiplex
With the financial clout that many large cinema chains have, many people aren’t aware of the charms – and more competitive prices – of their local arts cinema. So see where the nearest independent cinema to you is. You might find somewhere more charming than your nearest Megaplex.
Make the most of Orange Wednesday
Chances are you’ll be well versed in how Orange Wednesday can save you plenty of money. So we won’t blather on about it – all you have to do is get a free Orange SIM. Once you have it, you just need to text 241 and you’ll be given a code that allows you to buy one and get another free at the cinema. Can’t say fairer than that.
Don’t buy food
It’s fair to say that ticket prices at the cinema are pretty extortionate. But the cost of food is on another level altogether. So make sure you eat beforehand and don’t get tempted by that £7 tub of delicious salted popcorn.
If you always get peckish, then why not pick up some sweets for a fraction of the price at local newsagent – you make sure you hide them in a bag on your way through. And don’t rustle that packet loudly during the film!
Get invited to previews…. For free
There’s only one thing better than going to the cinema, and that’s getting into the cinema for free. Thanks to sites such as ShowFilmFirst and FMUK, you can register and get informed when films are being previewed in a cinema near you. Naturally, these tickets go fast so you’ll have to act quickly to make sure you get a couple of tickets to print out.
Image Credit: By hashi photo (hashi photo) GFDL or CC-BY-3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
