Existing Magazine Subscriber Questions
How do I become a VIP subscriber?
We have a dedicated hotline especially for our existing subscribers. Just ring 01858 438 752 to make the switch.
Can I just keep my regular subscription?
Absolutely. If you’d rather remain a print subscriber without the VIP benefits then you don’t need to do anything.
What if I have an annual subscription?
We will refund the outstanding balance on your existing subscription and set up a brand-new 12-month subscription to Empire VIP. Simply contact our subscriptions team on 01858 438 752.
Will I still get my limited edition subscriber’s covers?
Yes, if you are a print subscriber you will still receive your exclusive subscriber’s covers whether you are a member of Empire VIP or not.
How do I make the switch to VIP?
Simply call 01858 438 752 and we can switch you over.
Will I miss an issue when I switch?
No, your subscription will continue seamlessly.
General VIP Club Questions
How do I become an Empire VIP subscriber?
Simply call 01858 438884 and they will set you up with a new VIP subscription or visit our website, here.
What do I get as part of my VIP subscription package?
-13 issues of Empire Magazine delivered directly to your door, with bespoke, world-exclusive, subscriber-only covers.
-Access to the Empire Spoiler Special Podcast (with a minimum of two new episodes per month), plus access to the 300-plus episode archive. -Exclusive VIP Club events hosted by the Empire team (with a minimum of six per year), which will include: live Q&A + screening events with filmmakers and actors; First-look preview screenings.
-12-Month Picturehouse Membership, which includes: 2 free tickets for use at any Picturehouse cinema; 20% discount on all food and drink at Picturehouse cinemas; £2 discount on all tickets at Picturehouse cinemas across the UK; invites to free preview screenings; access to priority booking where available; access to partner discounts; access to the Members bars at Central, Fulham Road and the new Finsbury Park Picturehouse.
NB: Memberships will start from when Picturehouse cinemas open in 2021. Terms and conditions apply.
How much does Empire VIP cost?
The best value offer is £99 for the year when you pay by recurring payment or £110 as a one-off payment. You can pay for a recurring monthly membership at £8.99.
Can I switch to an Empire VIP subscriber if I live outside the UK?
Empire VIP is currently available for UK subscribers only.
If I change my mind about Empire VIP can I switch back to being just a magazine subscriber?
Empire VIP subscriptions are taken on an annual basis and will therefore run for the full 12 months. The subscription cannot be cancelled mid-term. For general subscription FAQs please see https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/faq
How will my VIP subscription appear in my online subscription account?
It will show as an Empire subscription only not as an Empire VIP subscription at this point in time.
Can I use a gift card or Tesco voucher to pay for Empire VIP?
Gift cards and Tesco vouchers are not able to be used towards payment for Empire VIP.
What happens when I subscribe to Empire VIP and how do I get my perks?
Within 3 days of subscribing to Empire VIP you will receive a welcome email confirming your subscription.
I haven’t been receiving emails from Empire VIP – what do I do?
It is critical that we hold a valid email address (preferably a personal one) in order for you to continue to receive info and updates about your VIP membership. Please note that the email address we have connected to your subscription account needs to be the same as the one used to access the Spoiler Special Podcast. If you change your email address please contact customer services on 01858 438884.
I have an issue with my magazine subscription or payment – who do I contact?
If you would like to get in touch with us about your subscription please contact our Customer Service team by emailing bauer@subscription.co.uk or you can call us on 01858 438884.
Empire Special Spoiler Podcast Questions
How do I access the Spoiler Special Podcast?
Please click the unique link to our partner podcast platform, Supporting Cast, included in your Empire VIP welcome email. After you enter your email, you will see a flash message that says: "Please check your email. If you have access, we’ll send you an email with a link." When the email arrives in your inbox, you can use the link contained within to verify and sign in to your account. You will then be able to access the Spoiler Special Podcast on whichever app you get your podcasts.
Who do I contact and how if the podcasts access won’t work?
Please contact help@supportingcast.fm
How do I access the 300+ episode archive?
All spoiler specials – past and present – will be available in your feed the moment you subscribe.
Is there a limit to how many archived episodes I can access?
There is no limit to the number of archived episodes you can access.
I already subscribe to the Spoiler Special Podcast – what do I need to do?
You will need to cancel your current podcast subscription which will ensure no further payments are taken. Payments are non-refundable and you will not be able to get any refunds or credits for any partial membership periods or unconsumed content but you will now have access to the podcast via the Empire VIP Club. To cancel, go to the "Account" page on Spoiler Specials and follow the instructions for cancellation. When you cancel your podcast subscription, your account will automatically close at the end of your current billing period. To see when your account will close, click "Billing details" on the "Account" page. You will have access to the content via your Empire VIP Club membership and will need to follow the instructions on how to redeem this. Access to the podcast will remain active whilst you have a paid for Empire VIP Club Membership. If the Empire VIP Club Membership expires or is cancelled, access to the podcast will cease.
Does my VIP subscription also give me access to the Pilot TV+ subscription podcast?
Unfortunately not, Pilot TV+ isn't included with the Empire Spoiler Specials podcast and must be subscribed to separately.
VIP Club Events Questions
How do I hear about Empire VIP events and how do I access them?
We’ll keep you updated on all events and booking details via email so keep an eye on your inbox!
Will the events be virtual or live?
Both! There will be a combination of live, in-person events (mainly in London) and virtual, online events.
Can I bring a guest to the live events?
Previous Empire events have included a plus one but future events will be determined on an event-by-event basis.
Will I get free tickets to the Live Empire Podcasts.
VIP events are free but Live Podcasts are separate events and not included.
How many events will there be?
There will be a minimum of 6 live events each year.
Will I be guaranteed a ticket to every event?
You will be eligible for all events, however live events will have limited capacity and tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Picturehouse Questions
How do I activate my Picturehouse membership?
As much as they’d love to, Picturehouse is unable to process new memberships while their cinemas are closed. When the cinemas reopen you will receive a unique code from us via email to activate on the Picturehouse website or via phone (details of both options will be in the email)
How do I get my membership card?
Once you have activated your membership with Picturehouse using your unique code, your shiny new card will be waiting for you at the Box Office of your local Picturehouse. To collect it, just quote the temporary card number sent to you in your membership confirmation email from Picturehouse. If you prefer the digital version then your membership card will be available in the Picturehouse app.
How do I access my 2 free tickets online?
Simply log in to Picturehouses.com using your online password (you’ll need to activate your card and create a password first). Once you’ve signed in, you can book your tickets. If you’re using the app, make sure you’re logged in to get discounts and use your free member tickets. Members can also book their free tickets in advance (either online or in person) for programmed performances.
How long are the tickets valid for?
Your membership and free tickets are valid for 12 months from when the cinemas reopen. Remember that you will not receive the unique code until cinemas reopen and your 12-month membership will not start until you have activated your unique code.
How do I get my food and drink discount?
You must show your valid Membership card at the appropriate kiosk or bar. You do not need to be visiting the cinema to see a film to get a discount on food and drink.
How often can I use my food and ticket discount?
Discounts are unlimited during your 12-month membership. The only limit is on free tickets, of which you’ll receive 2 to use at any Picturehouse cinema.
How do I access/hear about free previews and how often will they be available?
Look out for emails from Picturehouse with details on exclusive Previews and how to book.
How do I access priority booking where available?
For the majority of special events and screenings, Picturehouse will offer Members priority booking if agreed with the distributor or content provider. Once logged into the website or Picturehouse app, priority booking events will automatically be available to book (exclusively to members). Tickets can be purchased via the phone by simply calling the box office and quoting your membership number when purchasing. Members will be notified via email about priority booking events.
How do I access partner discounts?
Partner discounts may vary throughout the year. Picturehouse has a number of long-term and limited-time offers that are available exclusively to members. Current offers will be detailed in your welcome email from Picturehouse when you activate your card, and time-limited or new offers will be communicated via email as and when they may be available throughout the year.
How do I access Members’ Bars at Central, Fulham Rd and Finsbury Park
Simply present your Membership card (either a physical plastic one or your virtual card on the Picturehouse App) to a Member of staff before entering the bar. Cards are usually checked either on the door of the bar, or on the entrance to the cinema screens. One member can bring up to 3 guests into the bar with them. If you need any help or directions to the Members’ Bar, please ask at the box office and a member of Picturehouse staff will be happy to show you the way.
I don’t live near a Picturehouse cinema – can I claim my membership at another cinema chain?
We’re unable to offer membership to an alternative cinema chain.
Who do I contact with queries on my Picturehouse membership?
During this period of closure Picturehouse are unable to take phone calls. If you'd like to contact Picturehouse customer service, then please email enquiries@picturehouses.co.uk.
Where can I find full Picturehouse membership terms and conditions?
Who do I contact with queries on any of the above?
Please email empirevip@bauermedia.co.uk and we will endeavour to get back to you within two working days.