Leiston Film Theatre, or Leiston Picture House as it was originally named, opened in October 1914 and has traded continuously for 105 years. Following a decline in cinema attendances in the 1970’s, the venue was saved from closure in 1976 by Leiston Town Council, who have invested in carefully updating the building to meet the expectations of today’s cinema audiences. Despite being Suffolk’s oldest surviving purpose built cinema, this versatile venue boasts a very comfortable 252 seat auditorium, with a choice of standard, cuddle or premier seating and features Dolby Digital 7.1 Surround EX sound and the very latest in digital projection, including the superior Dolby 3D experience.

Most recently, new, larger toilets were introduced in 2016 and in 2019, the foyer was significantly enlarged and refurbished, to enable a separate area for the collection of pre-booked tickets and the introduction of a Visitor Information Point.

Presently, the Film Theatre is in the midst of a difficult recovery period, following a 15 week closure, due to the COVID 19 pandemic. The venue has been overwhelmed by the messages of encouragement and financial contributions to support this iconic cinema/theatre during such uncertain times.

The Leiston Film Theatre Support Club

The Leiston Film Theatre Support Club is an independent group, founded in November 1992 to raise funds to improve the facilities and interior décor of the Leiston Film Theatre, Suffolk’s oldest purpose built working cinema, which first opened its doors on the 27th October 1914. (Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council owns the venue and is responsible for the main fabric and exterior of the Film Theatre).

Through numerous fund-raising activities and social events, the Club provides financial assistance towards the many improvements made at the venue. To find out more, head to the Film Theatre Support Club’s website.

Visitors Information Point

The Film Theatre also includes a Visitors Information Point where your welcome to drop in (during opening hours) to see what going on in the area and whether you are a resident or a trouist, your more than welcome to pop in and find out more about Leiston and the surrounding area.