Broadway Cinema, Nottingham

Located in Nottingham’s vibrant Hockley district, Broadway Cinema is one of the UK’s leading independent cinemas-and, according to Total Film magazine in 2009, one of the best in the world. But it’s not just the films that draw crowds-it’s the rich cultural history and creative energy that pulses through the building.

The cinema occupies the former Broad Street Wesleyan Church, a historic site dating back to 1839 and reputedly where William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, experienced his spiritual awakening. Since the 1960s, the building has evolved into a cultural hub, housing the Nottingham Film Society, City Lights Cinema, and ultimately, Broadway Cinema from 1982 onward.

In 1993, Broadway hosted the UK premiere of Pulp Fiction fresh from Cannes, cementing its reputation for championing bold cinema. Filmmakers like Shane Meadows and Jeanie Finlay have called it their creative home-Finlay even edited her Game of Thrones documentary The Last Watch on-site.

Following a major £6 million redevelopment in 2006-part-funded by the National Lottery and Arts Council England-the venue now features four screens, including the world’s only cinema auditorium designed by fashion icon Sir Paul Smith. Two bars and a Cafébar add to the venue’s social atmosphere.

Broadway’s commitment to film goes far beyond screenings. It nurtures new talent through initiatives like the BFI Film Academy and supports innovation through its Near Now program. As the base of the BFI’s Film Hub Midlands, Broadway is a regional leader in audience development, training, and diversity in film culture.

From Hollywood blockbusters to global cinema, local filmmaking to industry development, Broadway Cinema is a cornerstone of Nottingham’s creative scene-equal parts arthouse, incubator, and community space.