Watermans will next week reinstate its pre-covid booking process and allow cinema customers to select their favourite seats.

The change in policy, which comes into force on Monday (September 5), means the Brentford cinema can screen films at full capacity and allows groups of friends to enjoy films from their favourite vantage.

In its announcement today, Watermans said it did however "recognise that some customers are still a little cautious and prefer safe distancing". 

To accommodate all film-lovers, the cinema will run 'safe-seating' screenings in which one seat will be kept free between different bookings.

Running twice a week, these screenings will be scheduled on Tuesday afternoons and early Friday evenings, and will continue for as long as there is "a reasonable demand for them".

"We, of course, will continue with our enhanced cleaning and ventilation after each show or screening," Watermans added.

As well as its return to normal seating, the cinema also announced it will be reinstating later evening screenings from Monday.

Although film lengths determine the exact schedule, this means that on most – but not every – day, films will be screened at around 1.30pm, 4.15pm, 6pm and 8pm. 

Last but by no means least, Watermans announced its Parent & Baby screenings will recommence on Wednesday, September 14.

A spokesperson for the cinema said: "It's great to be making moves to get back to somewhere near normality and we know this will please so many of you."

Make the most of the good news – full list of current and upcoming films at Watermans here.