Cinemas in Dorset

With a variety of excellent films displayed in these venues weekly, movie-goers are bound to enjoy the immersive experiences these locations offer.

Having been Christchurch's cultural centre of cinema since 1931, The Regent Centre continues to exhibit creative and captivating films every day. The stalls are step-free accessible via either the stair lifts in the foyer or the Fire Door, although access via the latter must be coordinated with the Front of House Team. Access bays are located in Row U. The circle is not step-free accessible. Overall, the theatre holds 505 people, with both Wick Lane Car Park and Regent Way parking located nearby.

ADDRESS: 51 High St, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1AS

Below is an overview of other key cinemas in Dorset, including those that also function as theatres, based on available information. Many of these venues offer a mix of films and live performances, with some maintaining historic or Art Deco charm.

Odeon Cinema, Bournemouth

Location: BH2 Leisure, Exeter Crescent, Bournemouth

Description: A modern multiplex in the heart of Bournemouth’s BH2 Leisure complex, offering comfortable seating, high-quality screens, and a central location near restaurants. Praised for helpful staff and accessibility.

Contact: www.odeon.co.uk

Plaza Cinema, Dorchester
Location: Trinity Street, Dorchester

Description: A local cinema offering a mix of new releases and event cinema. Known for friendly staff and affordable prices, with special screenings like sensory-friendly and autism-acceptance showings.

Upcoming Films in April:

• A Minecraft Movie (family, action, adventure
• Disney’s Snow White (upcoming family film).

The Rex Cinema, Wareham
Location: West Street, Wareham

Description: Dorset’s oldest running cinema, with a refurbished Art Deco interior. Seats 125, with wheelchair access and modern projection technology. Run mostly by volunteers, it offers a nostalgic experience with local ice creams and claymation adverts by Head Projectionist Dougal Dixon.

Contact: www.therex.co.uk

Weymouth Pavilion Cinema, Weymouth
Location: The Esplanade, Weymouth

Description: Historic venue (opened, rebuilt) combining cinema and live theatre. Features a café, Piano Bar Restaurant, and daily box office. Known for classic films and new releases in a seaside setting.

Contact: www.weymouthpavilion.com

Cineworld, Poole
Location: Tower Park, Poole

Description: A modern multiplex cinema offering a wide range of blockbusters and family films. Features ample parking and clean facilities, though some reviews note issues with broken seats.

Contact: www.cineworld.co.uk

Odeon Cinema, Dorchester
Location: Brewery Square, Dorchester

Description: A modern cinema with comfortable seating and a good selection of films. Praised for helpful staff and a convenient location with nearby restaurants.

Contact: www.odeon.co.uk

Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Location: West Borough, Wimborne Minster

Description: cine/theatre restored by volunteers. Continues its tradition of showing films alongside live stage shows, offering a charming, old-school cinema experience.

Contact: www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

Bournemouth Colosseum Bar & Cinema, Bournemouth
Location: Westbourne, Bournemouth

Description: A unique, smaller cinema with a bar, offering an intimate viewing experience. Popular for its cozy atmosphere and curated film selection.

Contact: https://bournemouthcolosseum.com/

Additional Info:

• Smaller Venues: Bridport Arts Centre (South Street, Bridport) screens films alongside theatre and music, serving as a community arts hub. The Exchange in Sturminster Newton offers occasional film screenings with local and international performances. 
• Outdoor Cinemas: Dorset has pop-up outdoor and drive-in cinemas, especially in summer. Events like the Purbeck Film Festival and Cinema Under The Stars at Corfe Castle showcase films in unique settings. Check www.exploringdorset.co.uk for updates. 
• Family-Friendly: Many cinemas, like Plaza and Rex, offer kids’ promotions, such as Saturday morning shows or complimentary snacks for children. 
• Budget Options: Dorset’s independent cinemas (e.g., Rex, Plaza) are often cheaper than multiplexes, with money-saving deals for families and seniors. 
• Events: The Purbeck Film Festival, the UK’s longest-running rural film festival, hosts screenings in unique Dorset locations, sometimes with guest appearances by filmmakers. 

Recommendations
For latest schedules, visit cinema websites or contact box offices, as listings may update closer to the date.