Picturehouse preps closure of historic London Fulham Road and Bromley cinemas amidst parent company Cineworld struggles

Picturehouse, the UK arm of struggling global cinema chain Cineworld, is set to close two historic London venues that it revamped prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In emails to its loyalty members, it said that its Fulham Road cinema would close on 11th July, whilst Bromley would shut up shop on 1st August.

Both of these are listed buildings dating back to the 1930s.

Picturehouse, which currently has 28 cinemas across the UK, took over management of both venues from Cineworld in 2019 and set about returning them to their 1930s glory.

But just months after they re-opened for business, they were forced to close as the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK. The future of both cinemas was unclear as RTIH published this article.

The end of the road comes as Cineworld explores options for its UK business that could include a potential sale or restructuring. It has reportedly brought onboard AlixPartners, which helped its Chapter 11 journey in the US in the wake of sizeable pandemic era losses..

The news was slammed by many X users, although some expressed little surprise amidst a cost-of-living crisis and a significant shift in the way that people watch new movies, thanks to the rise of streaming services.

RTIH’s very own Scott Thompson, a regular at Bromley Picturehouse, said: “Rubbish news. Have been a regular visitor since moving to the area last year, having previously been a regular at the Brixton Ritzy.”

“Sad for the great team there. Thanks for everything, guys. Bromley will be a lesser place without this fantastic cinema.”

Another user commented: “A real shame this, but not surprised when the Vue cinema in Bromley was generally a lot cheaper.”

“While I far prefer Picturehouse, money is tight for a lot of people and so they'll go where the cheaper options are. Sad to see you go, and hope the staff are being looked after.”

Another said: “This is awful, it's like my second home. Friendly staff, great choice of films including documentaries, film club specials; a far cry from the Vue's ugly offerings. Us regulars will shrivel n die. And what about all the lovely people employed there?”

And here’s our personal favourite, showcasing the joy of cinema-going: “Oh no, this is terrible news.”

“Although we live on the opposite end of London my dog & I loved coming down for the dog-friendly screenings and the staff there were always the friendliest and most welcoming of all Picturehouses. What can be done to #saveBromleyPH @picturehouses??”