Leiston Film Theatre, or Leiston Picture House as it was originally named, opened in October 1914 and has traded continuously for 109 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. 

Friends of Leiston Film Theatre.

The Friends of Leiston Film Theatre is an independent group, founded in 1992 to raise funds to improve the facilities and interior décor of the Leiston Film Theatre.

Through numerous fund-raising activities and social events, the Friends provides financial assistance towards the many improvements made at the venue.

Since 1992, the Friends have funded in excess of £135,000 worth of improvements at the Film Theatre.

Membership currently runs from 1st April – 31st March.

Membership forms are available from the Film Theatre box office.

Alternatively, contact the venue on 01728 830549, email: staff@leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk, and we’ll be pleased to forward a membership form to you.

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.