About Forest Cinema
Walthamstow’s Only Cinema
Forest Cinemas is Walthamstow’s only cinema, located on Walthamstow High Street in the former Empire Cinema building. The cinema closed in July 2023 when its previous operator went into administration, leaving Walthamstow without a cinema. It reopened in September 2024 under independent, family-run operator PDJ Cinemas, following a 25-year lease agreed with Waltham Forest Council, who own the building.
A Cinema Built Around It's Community
Waltham Forest Council selected PDJ Cinemas to run Forest Cinemas because of its commitment to the communities it serves, including regular family and autism-friendly screenings, collaboration with local schools, and support for local film festivals and charities.
PDJ Cinemas is an independent operator running a small number of cinemas across the UK.
Nine Screens
Forest Cinemas has nine screens, including a large-format screen with 3D capability, and full wheelchair accessibility throughout.
Find out more about our Family Cinema options here
Find out more about our Accessible Cinema options here
Find out more about Private Hire at Forest Cinemas here
Visit Forest Cinemas
Forest Cinemas, The Scene, 267 High Street, Walthamstow, London E17 7FD — serving Walthamstow and East London. For access requirements or questions ahead of your visit, email office@forestcinema.co.uk.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 11am - 9pm
Saturday - Sunday: 10am -9pm
FAQ’s
Is Forest Cinemas the only cinema in Walthamstow?
Yes. Forest Cinemas is Walthamstow’s only cinema, reopened in September 2024 in
the former Empire Cinema building.
Who runs Forest Cinemas?
Forest Cinemas is run by PDJ Cinemas, an independent, family-run cinema operator, under a 25-year lease with Waltham Forest Council.
What was Forest Cinemas before it reopened?
The building was formerly the Walthamstow Empire, which closed in July 2023 before
reopening as Forest Cinemas in September 2024.
How many screens does Forest Cinemas have?
Forest Cinemas has nine screens, including a large-format screen with 3D capability.
Is Forest Cinemas wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Forest Cinemas is fully wheelchair accessible