The Phoenix Picturehouse

The queuing for tickets is a mess. The staff let people queue for 15 – 20 minutes even for films that are already sold out, instead of putting up a sign or making an announcement like other theatres do. Really annoying!

For an alternative viewing experience this is the place. A more grown-​up experience with the added luxury of a bar. The seats are fine but not to the same spec as in a modern movie house. The screen is again a decent size but like the theatre itself, smaller than in a modern facility. Still, my wife and I have thoroughly enjoyed the various films we have watched there. You can’t beat a spot of ‘War Horse’ with a couple of small bottles of rosé. Fingers crossed things don’t change since being bought out by Cineworld earlier in December. Oh yes. If you become a member you not only get 3 tickets as part of the cost but also 10% discount off further tickets and bar prices.

Very good cinema, with screening a fantastic range of new movies that it would probably be difficult to see elsewhere. Screens, sound and seats are all great, and the audience is usually a more grown-​up one than elsewhere. No interruptions and altogether a more enjoyable cinema experience than the Odeon, though you pay for the privelege.

Awesome cinema — does a special voucher deal which makes a great birthday presents and can also be hired out for private screenings. Shows some really good films. Worth a visit, but be sure to get there in time to get a ticket or buy/​book in advance.

Great cinema –independent & foreign films — nice bar upstairs –nice snacks too.
With the UPP in Cowley –the best cinema in town, if a little hard to park

One of the things that drew me back to Jericho is the Phoenix. Growing up here back in the 1970s — when it was still, of course, just The Phoenix Walton Street — I saw classics like Star Wars and Grease here.
Now I’m back in Oxford I am a member and a regular here. It’s one of those places where you can go with friends and have a fab evening out (great bar) but you can also turn up on your own and not feel like a nobby no-​mates as there’s usually plenty of other singletons in there too.
The film choices are excellent too. A few blockbusters (like Indiana Jones and Quantum of Solace) but usually intelligent, interesting films you wouldn’t find at the Odeon or Vue.

The Phoenix Cinema is a great little gem — as ‘local’ a cinema as you’ll find in Oxford. Yes, it’s in Jericho, but it’s only a few minutes walk from town and it’s a refreshing change from the sticky floors and Hollywood blockbusters of the Odeon.
Prices are pretty typical, but the good value food and drink makes you feel you’re getting a good deal:
Full price £7.00
Members £5.50
Child £5.00
Concessions £6.00
Weekday performances before 5pm are about £1 less for the higher price range.
You can see some of the normal films that are out in mainstream cinemas, if the Odeon’s screening times are inconvenient or you fancy a smaller screen. Of course, the main attraction is the great range of foreign films (French films most Tuesdays), which are subtitled for non-​linguists; period films, art films and independent documentaries.
A word of warning: Don’t assume that just because the films are obscure, you can rock up at the last minute and get in; films are often sold out and it’s a good idea to book in advance if there aren’t many showings.
Finally: the best thing — check out the funky toilet seats and neon lighting. A great addition to the other-​worldy experience!

The Phoenix Cinema is, in my opinion, one of the best places in North Oxford. Where else can you catch all the latest releases and arty and foreign films as well? The snacks are reasonably priced and you can even take a glass of wine into the auditorium. An annual membership card is certainly worthwhile!

A very popular and vibrant cinema in Oxford. A student clientelle dominates with the occasional local popping in for the latest arthouse film. This is the Ultimate Picture Palace for the residents of Jericho, but you could argue it’s slightly better. Why? i) Better location ii) It has a bar (which also has a weekly quiz) iii) They also have events here — screening of student films, talks from famous actors etc.
With the Phoenix and the UPP in Oxford, we are all very, very spoilt.