Originally the building was the York Gate Hall, a museum of armour, which was built in 1911 It was used as a puppet theatre for many years and was converted into a 16mm cartoon cinema in 1965. Later 35mm equipment was installed (still the modern day standard size film used today)

There is a street level foyer which houses the box office and full range of refreshments, and also gives access to a 23 seat balcony. Seating in the stalls below is reached by a staircase , and there are 88 seats at this level, which is actually well below street level, hence the deceptive size from the outside.

A total of 111 seats, so contrary to popular belief- NOT “the smallest cinema in the UK” The cinema features a very large screen, almost the full width of the building, and also has been recently fitted with Dolby stereo sound. Air-conditioning has also been fitted to enhance customer comfort. The very latest films are screened here, and the cinema is only closed on Christmas Day. The cinema was refurbished in February 1988 and again in January 1997.

The newest owners from August 2006 have already started an extensive program of refurbishments, whilst also maintaining the character of the Grade 11 listed building. Incidentally, only the third owners in forty years.

The Thanet Film Society hold regular Tuesday meetings at the cinema, and present a very varied program of independent and art house films. The Cinema is privately owned and not maintained by any grants, and is very popular with both local people and visitors alike. We hope you will continue to support us by visiting this unique Cinema.