An Alternative Choice at the ICA in London

If music, exhibitions and art house film is what you are looking for in London there is no better place to go than the Institute of Contemporary Arts.

A short walk from Trafalgar square, the ICA is conveniently situated on the Mall opposite Horse Guards Parade and St. James Park. Regarded as one of the world’s most innovative institutions they organise a dynamic programme of arts, foreign film and alternative music.

A compact and innovative layout, the ICA houses two cinema screens, two galleries, a theatre, a pleasant reading room, a fantastic bookshop, and a café/bar with a hidden snug off to the side. During events the atmosphere friendly and vibrant atmosphere is a pleasure to soak up.

The cinema screens offbeat films that are considered art house, many of which is foreign cinema. Prices range from between £8-£10. On Monday’s all films are £5 regardless of whether you are a member or casual visitor.

Cinema goers are invited to treat themselves to the burger and a beer offer for £7.99. On producing your ticket stub you will be entitled to a choice of tasty gourmet burgers and either a beer or glass of wine to wash it down with.

The theatre stages plays and live music and although it is relatively spacious it is what music journalists refer to as ’intimate.’ Bands invited to play the ICA are generally considered art rock, though the standard is often good quality.

Random exhibitions are free to browse around and are changed on a fairly regualr basis. Needless to say, the ICA is an alternative venue for alternative people.