Paignton Picture House
A historic 1914 cinema, once frequented by Agatha Christie, undergoing vital restoration to become a community hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience unique events and tours.
Paignton Picture House
Best Time
Experience unique events and tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1914 cinema, once frequented by Agatha Christie, undergoing vital restoration to become a community hub.
"Hopes for the physical revamp fare better than some of the events, but community support for restoration is strong."
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Access is often limited to specific events or tours. Always check their calendar!
🤝 Support Restoration
Your visit or donation helps preserve this historic cinema for future generations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Auditorium
Main cinema hall
Imagine Agatha Christie watching films from the balcony of this magnificent, historic space.
The Projection Room
Volunteer space
Explore the heart of the cinema's past operations and see where film magic was made.
Restoration Project
Exterior and interior
Witness firsthand the ongoing efforts to bring this Grade II* listed gem back to its former glory.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Restoration in Progress
A Glimpse into History
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Access is often limited to specific events or tours. Always check their calendar!
🤝 Support Restoration
Your visit or donation helps preserve this historic cinema for future generations.
📸 Capture the History
The architecture and ongoing restoration offer great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Access is often limited to specific events or tours. Always check their calendar!
🤝 Support Restoration
Your visit or donation helps preserve this historic cinema for future generations.
📸 Capture the History
The architecture and ongoing restoration offer great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for events at the Paignton Picture House during its restoration phase have been mixed. While the concept and the historical significance are appreciated, some attendees have found specific events to be confusing or lacking in clear direction, leading to disappointment. However, there's strong community support for the physical restoration of the building itself.
"What on earth was that all about?
We stood waiting to be entertained by a projected light show on the outside of the picture house which started with such promise.
Instead, we witnessed what I can only describe as, a missed opportunity. After the first few minutes I became confused about what I was watching. The kind of experience you get coming round from a general anesthetic, a little confused and disoriented, wondering what had just happened.
The first minute or so was intriguing as it was enhanced by the additional medium of sound being provided by individual headphones you rented for a small deposit.
Sadly, the hopes of this rather unique experience, proceeded to tumbled it's way through a bizarre collection of poor quality slides that were more disjointed than roadkill.
We watched and listened for a little over 10 minutes until we couldn't participate any more.
Headphones returned, we left, along with others.
There was no format or coherent story line to follow at this event. You would assume that a celebration to start the revival of such an historic building, might begin a journey from it's founding history to present day but sadly, no such format could be found. It looked like the gathered floor cuttings from a week inside a high street shop that used to develop hundreds of holiday makers photos, put in to slides, then projected on a wall.
Let's hope the physical revamp fares better."
Andy
"Looks like this old building is finally getting repaired. Thought it would finally fall down like so many old buildings in Torbay that been neglected by the council."
Canny Viking
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paignton Picture House is located in Paignton, Devon. It's accessible by public transport, with local bus services stopping nearby. If driving, check for local parking options as it's in a town center.
Parking availability can vary in Paignton town center. It's advisable to check local council websites or parking apps for the most up-to-date information on car parks and their charges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Paignton Picture House is currently undergoing restoration. Access is typically limited to special events, tours, or volunteer open days. It's essential to check the official Paignton Picture House Trust website or social media for current visiting information.
Ticket prices vary depending on the event or tour. Some community consultation days might be free, while special screenings or guided tours will have an admission fee. Check their official channels for details.
As it's a restoration project, there are no standard opening hours. Hours are dictated by scheduled events, tours, or volunteer workdays. Always confirm specific timings before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary depending on the event. For general tours or during restoration viewings, personal photography is usually permitted, but always check with staff on arrival. Professional or commercial photography may require prior arrangement.
The historic auditorium, the projection room, and the exterior architecture are prime spots. During restoration, you might also capture interesting details of the ongoing work.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye on their schedule for family-friendly activities or workshops that might be part of the restoration events. The historical aspect, especially the connection to Agatha Christie, could also spark curiosity in older children. 🏛️ History Buffs & Heritage Enthusiasts
You can learn about its history, its connection to Agatha Christie, and witness the meticulous restoration efforts firsthand. +1 Attending a community consultation or a guided tour offers deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of preserving such a vital piece of local and national heritage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Restoration Journey
It holds a special place in local history, famously being a favorite spot for author Agatha Christie to watch films from her preferred seat in the balcony. +1 After closing its doors in 1999, the building faced neglect, but a dedicated Paignton Picture House Trust has been working tirelessly to restore it to its former glory. +1This ambitious restoration project involves a full refurbishment, upgrading the building's fabric, modernizing essential services, renovating the auditorium, and implementing sustainable heating solutions.
The goal is to not only preserve its rich heritage but also to reimagine its future as a vibrant community hub and cinema. Visitors can often participate in or witness this transformation through community consultation days and tours, offering a unique glimpse into heritage preservation. +1Agatha Christie's Connection
+1 She was known to frequent the cinema and had a favorite seat in the magnificent balcony, from which she would enjoy films. This personal link adds another layer of historical and cultural significance to the building, making it a point of interest for fans of her work and for those interested in the social history of the early 20th century. Discussions around the restoration often highlight this connection, emphasizing the importance of preserving a place that was so personally meaningful to such a celebrated figure.
For visitors, imagining Agatha Christie in her favorite seat offers a tangible link to the past and the golden age of cinema. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit