Independent Cinema

If you are a film buff the Lake District, Cumbria is home to a delightful cluster of independent cinemas showing everything from Hollywood blockbusters to thought-provoking arthouse releases.

Make a night of it at Zeffirelliis. With 5 Cinema screens across Ambleside, you can enjoy the movie deal starting with dinner followed by the film of your choice.

The Alhambra in Keswick is the sixth-oldest continuously running cinema in the UK. Opened in 1913 and fully refurbished in 2021 it now has two screens and the latest digital technology but still retains period charm and family-owned personal touches. Open 365 days of the year, it's the only cinema within a hundred miles that opens even on Christmas Day.

Ulverston’s Roxy Cinema is a 1930s Art-deco cinema with all its original features intact. See classic arty flicks, all time favourites and the latest new releases.

The Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal is an unrivalled entertainment venue that hosts theatre shows, bar and restaurant and a multi-screen cinema with all the latest blockbusters.

Rheged in Penrith is a unique cinema specialising in live streamed events on the big screen alongside all the best new films. Opera, theatre and ballet is streamed live to the big screen from the most prestigious arts venues at home and abroad. This makes it possible to watch productions from The Royal Opera House, National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company and The Royal Ballet in Cumbria, at the same time they are being performed.

The Lake District, Cumbria has the perfect scenic backdrop for outdoor cinema which hopefully won’t distract you from the film! The popular picnic cinema in the grounds of Muncaster Castle is always a popular family evening out.

We are home to the Kendal Mountain Festival where film is an integral part. Exploring exhilarating landscapes, inspirational relationships and profound journeys on the big screen. The annual Keswick Film Festival showcases short Cumbrian films alongside some international new releases.

Not only do we have big screens but we our stunning landscapes regularly features on it.

The Lake District has been a natural set for a host of films, including Miss Potter (2006), starring Renee Zellweger in the title role. Her most famous creation, Peter Rabbit, was made into a film in 2018 starring James Corden, Daisy Ridley and Margot Robbie, and parts of it were filmed around Ambleside and Windermere.

Arthur Ransome’s much-loved Swallows and Amazons is centred on the Lake District and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, saw Derwentwater and the surrounding countryside stand in for the planet of Takodana.

Take a look at some of the many Lake District, Cumbria locations that have been used in film and tv productions you will know:

So, stock up on the popcorn and the sweets and support independent cinema and choose your film – action, thriller, comedy, sci-fi or romance. A trip to the flicks is the perfect all-weather attraction. Check out our list below of independent cinemas throughout Cumbria.