Each cinema chain has its own rules around viewers bringing in snacks and beverages
14:28, 20 Nov 2025
A Vue Cinema(Image: jax10289 via Getty Images)
Going to the cinema is an enjoyable experience for many, with a trip to the flicks providing an opportunity to escape and immerse oneself in a different universe. It’s particularly useful in the UK, where the weather often puts a damper on other activities.
There are often deals available on cinema tickets, depending on when you wish to go, and any subscriptions you might have that offer discounted films, making a cinema visit more affordable. And for those looking to save even more, you might be curious to know if you’re allowed to bring your own food and drink.
This can often be much cheaper than purchasing popcorn and other snacks from the foyer. There’s a common misconception that this isn’t permitted, with some of us having “smuggled” treats and beverages into the cinema in the past.
However, this is often not the case. Each cinema chain has its own policies regarding patrons bringing in snacks and drinks, and here’s what Vue, Odeon, Cineworld and Showcase have to say on the matter, as reported by Wales Online.
Vue
Vue operates 92 cinemas across the UK and Ireland. According to its website, customers can bring their own food and drink – but hot food and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Vue offers popcorn, nachos, milkshakes, and a variety of other snacks and drinks, but if you prefer to bring your own, you’re welcome to do so. Its website states: “Feel free to bring your own food and drink with you, but leave the hot food and alcohol at home”.
Odeon
Similar to Vue, Odeon has confirmed that patrons may bring their own food and beverages, though certain conditions apply. Odeon’s website states: “We have a fantastic range of cinema classics like popcorn, hot dogs and our famous nachos available to buy in cinema, but we do allow guests to bring in their own snacks and drinks.”
That said, customers are prohibited from bringing hot food, “pungent” food, and alcoholic beverages. Further guidance notes: “If you’re unsure, please ask any member of our team in cinema who will be happy to advise you. Please be advised the Odeon Islington Luxe and Dine does not allow you to take your own food.”
Cineworld
In line with the cinema chains mentioned above, Cineworld permits customers to bring their own food and drink, however its website’s “terms of entry” specify: “Cineworld have a strict no externally purchased hot food or alcohol policy, and we reserve the right to refuse customers entry into the screens with hot food or alcohol bought outside the premises.
“We offer a wide range of drinks and snacks for you to enjoy when watching our movies, including cinema favourites such as popcorn, hot dogs and nachos.”
Showcase
Showcase’s policy regarding outside food and drink is clearly outlined on its website, which states: “We do not allow guests to bring hot food, alcoholic beverages and drinks in glass containers into our buildings.
“We reserve the right to refuse admission.”
