Saltash Studios Cinema Opens in Former Bank Building

New 65-seat venue in Saltash brings big-screen magic to a small town

A new 65-seat cinema tucked inside a former bank in Saltash is fast becoming a favourite for film lovers across Southeast Cornwall and beyond.

Saltash Studios Cinema opened in March and, despite its small size, is already having a big impact. Housed in a once-derelict building in the centre of town, the space has been transformed into an intimate, fully equipped cinema offering digital projection, Dolby Surround Sound, a 3-metre screen, a licensed bar and freshly made popcorn.

“How can a cinema work in a bank?”

The cinema is the vision of local cultural producer Lindsay Endean, who has a background in creative projects from festivals to flying dragon puppets. She previously worked at the David Lean Cinema in Croydon, another small venue with a big heart.

“Audiences often arrive sceptical as to how a cinema could possibly work inside an old bank,” said Lindsay. “But they leave feeling excited and inspired, sometimes falling back in love with cinema after being put off by previous multiplex cinema experiences.”

She added: “Saltash Studios Cinema is about watching great films and also much more – it’s about being part of a community, reconnecting with neighbours and getting immersed in a story with family and friends.”

Taking risks on new films

The cinema is already building a loyal following, with regulars and first-timers enjoying the unique setting. Lindsay said audiences feel more willing to try something different in a familiar space close to home.

“Our audiences tell us that comedies are funnier when watched with a room full of friends. They are also more likely to take a risk on an independent film or try a foreign language film for the first time.”

Volunteer-run and evolving

The venue is run by Salt Arts CIC, a not-for-profit social enterprise. Although parts of the building are still under restoration and the team occasionally deal with lingering pigeons from the bank’s past life, the energy of the community and volunteers is helping the project thrive.

Upcoming films and special guests

Coming up this month are two standout events. On 18th July, the cinema will screen Oh My Goodness!, a French comedy about a group of nuns entering a cycling race. Then on 25th July, Shalborne, a period drama filmed just across the Tamar in Devon, will be shown, with Director Caroline Corrie attending for a Q&A after the screening.

Lindsay said: “Local people are responding with equal levels of excitement and disbelief – this just isn’t the kind of town that film directors visit… well they do now!”

A focus on the outdoors

Given Saltash’s location, surrounded by moorland, river and sea, Lindsay said the team is seeing a strong appetite for environmental and outdoor adventure films. “We hope to make this a core part of our programming and something that we can really become known for across the region,” she added.

Easily accessible to the region

Located just 5 minutes from Saltash train station, the cinema is well placed to serve audiences in Southeast Cornwall, Plymouth and the Tamar Valley.

To check upcoming screenings, get involved or find out more, visit: www.saltashstudios.org