The Mowlem Theatre, Cinema & The Showbar Swanage

The Mowlem is a prominent seafront venue in Swanage town centre, offering a combined cinema, theatre, and community space with stunning views across Swanage Bay. Opened in 1967, it replaced a Victorian building and features a refurbished auditorium with seating for up to 400 across stalls and a circle. Known for its quirky design and friendly community atmosphere, it’s a cultural hub hosting over 200 film screenings and 60–100 live performances annually, including local and professional productions. The venue includes function rooms for hire, a ground-floor café (Fortes), a beach shop (Shoreside), and the popular Showbar and Cellar Bar, both with bay views.

Cinema:

• Films: Screens latest releases, classic films, and independent/foreign language movies, with matinee screenings during school holidays, ideal for families. Participates in the Purbeck Film Festival (autumn) with two weeks of diverse films and talks.
• Event Cinema: Features National Theatre Live, opera, and special screenings (e.g., Vanya with Andrew Scott, filmed in 2024).
• Tickets: Available online, by phone (01929 422239), or in-person at the box office (open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 11:00am–1:30pm; 45 minutes before screenings/events). Prices vary (~£7–£10 for films); concessions for kids and seniors.

Theatre:

• Performances: Hosts live theatre, comedy, dance, and music, including rep theatre in summer, pantomimes in winter, and local groups like Swanage Musical Theatre Company (Made in Dagenham). Professional shows include One Man, Two Guvnors and The Longest Johns (folk band, 2024 tour).
• Community: Supports amateur dramatics and schools, with groups affiliated to the National Operatic & Dramatic Association.
• April 2025: Easter pantomimes or family shows are likely, based on seasonal patterns. Check www.themowlem.com for the spring programme.

Showbar & Other Facilities:

• Showbar/Taproom: Upstairs, open to the public, offering local craft beers (Eight Arch Brewery, Hattie Brown’s, Purbeck Cider), wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Open for performances from 5:30pm until late, and during the day for coffee/cake. Boasts the best sea views in Swanage.
• Cellar Bar: Ground-floor bar with bay views, popular for pre-show drinks.
• Making Memories Café: Dementia-friendly café at the Showbar, held first and third Tuesdays (10am–12pm), with tea, coffee (£1), homemade cakes (donation), and entertainment.
• Function Rooms: Two rooms available for hire for events, exhibitions, or private functions. Contact admin@themowlem.com.
• Fortes Café & Gelateria: Ground-floor family-run coffee shop and ice cream parlour.

Accessibility:

• Wheelchair access to the auditorium and facilities.
• Hearing loops available.
• Assistance dogs welcome.
• Contact boxoffice@themowlem.com for specific needs.

Practical Information:

• Contact: 01929 422239, boxoffice@themowlem.com, www.themowlem.com.
• Getting There from Bournemouth:
• Car: 22 miles via A351 through Poole and Wareham (45–60 minutes). Park at nearby pay-and-display (Main Beach or Station Road). Postcode: BH19 1DD.
• Bus: Morebus 40 from Bournemouth Square to Swanage Bus Station (60–75 minutes, ~£5–£8), 2-minute walk to Mowlem. Check www.morebus.co.uk.
• Train: No direct train to Swanage; take South Western Railway to Wareham (30 minutes), then Morebus 40 to Swanage (20 minutes).
• Hours: Box office open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 11:00am–1:30pm; 6:45pm for evening performances; 45 minutes before screenings/events. Showbar open 5:30pm–late for shows, daytime for coffee.