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Penarth Pier Pavilion Cinema voted one of the best 15 cinemas in the UK

Friday, 16 October 2026 11:12

Penarth Pier Pavilion has been voted one of the 15 best cinemas in the UK in the British Independent Film Awards’ (BIFA) Cinema of the Year award.

More than 70 cinemas entered this year’s competition, with nearly 50,000 votes cast by cinemagoers across the UK.

The 15 cinemas on the longlist were announced on 13 October, with the five shortlisted cinemas to be revealed on 3 November alongside the full BIFA Awards nominations.

The winner will be announced at the annual ceremony on Sunday 6 December at London’s iconic Roundhouse.

The audience-voted award celebrates exceptional cinemas that bring people together, champion independent film and play an important role in their local communities.

Max Martin, Cinematic Events Assistant at Penarth Pier Pavilion Cinema, said:

"We are delighted that our little, independent cinema has been named one of just fifteen cinemas on the longlist for Cinema of the Year. The support from our community has been overwhelming, and we are so grateful that all the work that goes into making this cinema what it is has been recognised."

The feedback from visitors who voted for the cinema highlights the special combination of heritage, comfort, friendly service and film programming that makes the venue stand out.

One visitor described Penarth Pier Pavilion as “beautiful” and praised its cinema as “such a welcoming space”, adding that its stunning interior felt like “stepping back in time”. Another highlighted its location as “a lovely independent venue on a pier over the sea”, where the intimate atmosphere and beautiful Art Deco building create a distinctive cinema-going experience.

Audiences also praised the cinema’s comfortable seating, refreshments and varied programme, which includes films and streamed National Theatre productions. One voter called it “such an asset for Penarth”, while another described it as their “favourite venue for watching a film”, praising the film selection, welcoming staff and the enthusiasm behind the programme.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said:

“Being recognised as one of the 15 best cinemas in the UK is wonderful news for Penarth and the Vale of Glamorgan. It reflects the hard work of the cinema team, the support of our audiences and the important role that the Pavilion plays in our local cultural life.

“Having a full-time cinema here at Penarth Pier Pavilion gives residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic range of films in a truly special setting. The cinema brings people together, supports our wider cultural offer and helps ensure that this historic building continues to thrive as a community asset.

“We are incredibly proud to see Penarth Pier Pavilion Cinema recognised on a national stage, and we look forward to building on this success as the cinema continues to grow.”

BIFA Directors Amy Gustin and Deena Wallace said:

“Tens of thousands of audience members voted and told us how much their local cinemas mean to them. Congratulations to Penarth Pier Pavilion Cinema for making it onto the longlist for Cinema of the Year. It’s a fantastic showcase of the exceptional cinemas up and down the UK that are – in the words of one voter – ‘what community feels like’.”

Owned and operated by the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Penarth Pier Pavilion is a much-loved local landmark, combining distinctive Art Deco architecture with sweeping views across the Bristol Channel.

Opened in 1929, the Pavilion has developed into a vibrant cultural destination, hosting cinema screenings, live music, exhibitions, workshops and other events throughout the year.

Since the Council took over operation of the Pavilion in early 2021, it has worked to strengthen the building’s role as a community asset and a destination for residents and visitors alike. The cinema has become an increasingly important part of that offer, providing local audiences with access to a diverse programme of films without having to travel further afield.

Earlier this year, the cinema moved to a full-time operation, introducing more than 15 screenings across five days each week. Its programme spans independent and arthouse productions, major releases and films from Wales and around the world, helping to bring a wide range of cinema to the Vale of Glamorgan.

The recognition comes as further investment is secured for the venue. In September, Penarth Pier Pavilion Cinema was awarded £65,000 from the Arts Council of Wales’ Arts Capital Investment Fund to upgrade its projection and sound equipment, including replacing its ageing projector with modern laser-projection technology.

The five cinemas shortlisted for BIFA’s Cinema of the Year award will be announced on 3 November, with the overall winner revealed at the awards ceremony on 6 December.

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