A Hidden Gem: Is This the World’s Smallest Cinema? Discover Oakham’s Boutique 12-Seater Cinema
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
I think I’ve found one of Rutland’s most unique hidden gems… and it might just be the world’s smallest cinema.
Tucked away in the courtyard of The George Inn in Oakham, right in the centre of town, you’ll find a boutique cinema with just 12 seats. It’s so small, in fact, that the team believe it could be the smallest Dolby Atmos cinema in the world. And after visiting recently, I can honestly say it’s an experience for sure.
We visited to watch Mamma Mia! and it felt less like going to the cinema and more like being invited to a private screening with friends. Instead of rows of traditional cinema seats, queues and fuss over ordering drinks, there are six luxurious two-seater sofas, creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere from the moment you walk in and a bar and toilets right outside. It's as fuss-free as it is relaxing.
One of my favourite things about The George’s cinema is that it isn’t reserved exclusively for hotel guests. Anyone can book tickets, making it a brilliant option for date nights, girls’ nights, catching up with friends or simply doing something a little different in Rutland if you're staying locally and visiting the area. Tickets are currently £15 per person (or £10 introductory offer until 12th July), and screenings run throughout the week. You can find the timetable here.
The film programme is refreshingly varied too. Depending on when you visit, you might find classics such as The Italian Job, The Sound of Music or Forrest Gump, alongside newer releases and special screenings. The schedule changes regularly, giving plenty of reasons to return.
If you're celebrating something special, you can even hire the entire cinema for private use from only £162 (or an introductory offer of £120). Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, work socials, family gatherings or a unique date night would all work perfectly here. Private hire guests can choose their own film, subject to licensing approval. Exclusive hire currently costs £162 for the whole cinema.
Before the film starts, guests can grab drinks and snacks from the bar, and the hotel restaurant is available before and after selected screenings.
Arriving early for a drink in the courtyard before settling into one of the sofas feels like the perfect way to start an evening.
The cinema is just one part of the exciting transformation currently happening at The George. The historic coaching inn has already undergone significant refurbishment, and there are plans for a farm shop, gym and spa in the future, meaning it really is going to be a destination in the heart of Oakham.
As somebody who loves discovering unusual experiences close to home, this is exactly the sort of place I love sharing. It's quirky, unexpected and feels like one of those hidden gems that you almost don't want too many people to know about.
If you're looking for a unique date night, a memorable girls' night out, or simply somewhere different to watch a film, I'd definitely add this to your Rutland bucket list.
Book and find out more here.
Have you visited yet? I'd love to know what you watched.
Charlie x
How much are cinema tickets at The George Inn, Oakham?
Tickets cost £15 per person (or £10 as an introductory offer until 12th July 2026)
Is The George Inn cinema open to the public?
Yes. The cinema is open to both hotel guests and non-residents.
How many seats does the cinema have?
The cinema has 12 luxury seats arranged across six two-seater sofas.
Can you hire the cinema for private events?
Yes. The cinema is available for private hire for birthdays, celebrations, date nights and work socials. Private hire costs £162 (or £120 as an introductory offer until 12th July 2026)
Can you choose your own film when hiring the cinema?
Yes, subject to licensing approval.
Can you buy drinks and snacks at the cinema?
Yes. Drinks and snacks are available to purchase before screenings.
Can you bring your own food and drink?
No. Outside food and drink are not permitted.
Is food available before or after the film?
Yes. The George Inn restaurant is open before and after many screenings.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes. Guests must be aged 12 or over, although some films may have higher age ratings.
Can you book children’s parties at the cinema?
No. The venue does not currently cater for children’s parties.
Is the cinema accessible?
Accessibility is limited due to steps into the venue and the cinema room.
Can you choose your seats in advance?
No. Seats are not allocated before arrival.
Is there parking available?
The George Inn car park is for hotel guests only. Nearby public parking is available, including Burley Road Car Park.
How do you book tickets?
Tickets can be booked online, by phone, by email. (Please note, this experience was kindly gifted as part of a PR invitation for press and content creation purposes.)
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