With Cineworld in the city centre closing down, Nottingham’s cinemagoers are searching for alternative ways to get their film fix.
The Cornerhouse attraction said in a statement: “After years of providing movie lovers with a place to feel more, we regret to inform you that, following the landlord’s decision to reject our proposals, we will be closing 2nd February 2025.”
Whilst national chain Vue is set to take over the multiplex, it will close for a refurbishment period, leaving a hole in Nottingham’s entertainment scene.
Fortunately for residents, there are multiple other venues across the city where you can catch the latest blockbusters – and many of them are independently-owned.
Savoy Cinema
Where: Derby Road, Nottingham
The Savoy is Nottingham’s oldest cinema, opening in 1935, with the current owner taking over in 1994.
Since then, many improvements have been made, including adding modern amenities like laser projection and comfortable seating whilst keeping the original aesthetic that customers love.
General manager Paul Scotton describes the venue as a true cinema treasure and said: “Anyone who has visited Savoy knows how unique it is.
“It’s a cinema with a lot of history, and the style and look has kept that traditional cinema feel while also having all the modern luxuries cinemagoers look for.
“It’s important to us that our customers have a great experience and we’re constantly investing money in to do that.”
He believes the Savoy, along with other local cinemas, will be a lot busier during the immediate period after Cineworld’s closure and there will be a lot of sold-out performances.
Standard tickets are £7.50 for adults, £5.50 for senior citizens and children, and £5 for students.
The venue also offers event cinema and loyalty accounts.
Showcase Cinema de Lux
Where: Redfield Way, Nottingham
Part of a bigger chain, Showcase is a large, multiscreen venue just out of the city centre.
It boasts supersized XPlus screens with 360° sound, as well as general seating for £9.50.
For those on a budget, Showcase runs Saver Mondays, with £7.99 tickets or £4.99 with Insider membership.
Showcase also plays recorded live theatre, holds silver screenings, and has Student Sundays featuring £5.99 tickets after 7pm.
If you fancy a more luxurious night out, the venue offers a gallery experience with leather recliner seats, snack boxes, and bar access before and after the film.
Nottingham Trent University student Daisy Booth said: “Whilst Showcase is a more expensive option, I like that it has reclining seats and good snacks – especially the hot dogs!”
Broadway Cinema
Where: Broad Street, Hockley
A nonprofit, independent cinema in Hockley, Broadway is a cinephile’s dream.
With a café bar and mezzanine bar, customers can enjoy food and drink during their visit and turn the trip into a full evening out.
Broadway also offers film courses and a film academy for movie-lovers and aspiring creatives, as well as the opportunity to dedicate a seat to someone.
Ticket prices range from £5 for under 25s to £11 for a full ticket, and members can receive discounts and other benefits.
Special screenings are held for families, parents and babies, and those with additional needs.
The venue also shows older films, often on a pay what you feel basis.
The Arc Cinema
Where: Station Road, Beeston
The Arc is a modern, independent cinema popular with local people.
It is easily accessible by tram and bus services, located in the heart of Beeston.
The location has eight screens, equipped with reclining seats and Hypersense screenings, as well as surround sound and 4K laser projection technology.
Adult tickets cost £9 (off peak) to £10.50 (peak), with children, teens, students, and seniors paying £7 (off peak) to £7.50 (peak).
Subtitled screenings are available on Mondays and sensory screenings are usually held monthly.
