The BFI London Film Festival returns from October 7–18, with public screenings offering audiences the chance to discover new films before their wider release. You don’t need press accreditation to attend: the festival sells tickets to the public through its official website.
With priority booking opening this week, here’s how to plan your visit.
When Do London Film Festival 2026 Tickets Go On Sale?
Booking opens at 10am on these dates:
| Audience | Booking Date |
|---|---|
| BFI Patrons | September 9 |
| BFI Members | September 10 |
| General public | September 17 |
How Do You Buy LFF Tickets?
Book online through the festival website, by telephone on 020 7928 3232 or in person at BFI Southbank. Sign into your account before online booking.
How Much Are London Film Festival Tickets?
| Screening Or Event | Price |
|---|---|
| Standard London cinema weekday matinees | £13 |
| Standard London cinema weekend matinees and evenings | £18 |
| Gala premieres | £21–£30 |
| Opening and closing gala premieres | £40 |
| Special Presentation premieres | £21 |
| Screen Talks | £21 |
| Family screenings | £10 adults; £6 children |
| Relaxed screenings | £6 |
Check your chosen screening’s listing before booking.
Can You Get Cheaper LFF Tickets?
A free BFI 25 and Under account provides access to £6 tickets, subject to availability. Concessions are also available for eligible visitors at selected screenings.
What If A Screening Sells Out?
Check the festival website after 10am daily during the event for additional tickets. Standby queues offer another possibility, without guaranteeing admission.
Are There Free Events?
Booking for LFF for Free opens October 1 at 10am. Some events have age restrictions, and a ticket does not guarantee entry.
These dates, prices and conditions are listed in the BFI’s official booking guide.
How Should You Plan Your First Festival Visit?
Start with a small shortlist of films you genuinely want to see. For each, note an alternative screening so you have another option if your first choice becomes unavailable.
Check the venue as carefully as the start time. Leave room for travel, queues and food, especially when moving between cinemas. A tightly packed schedule can quickly become stressful if one screening finishes late.
If you’re attending at the weekend, build a manageable day around one priority film, then add other screenings nearby. You can enjoy the festival without filling every available slot.
Before paying, read the current booking conditions and double-check every date and time in your basket.
