Paignton Picture House Secures Funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to Help Bring Historic Cinema Back to Life

Paignton Picture House has secured funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, marking another major milestone in the future of the project. 

This investment recognises both the historic significance of the building and the strength of our vision to restore it as a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable cultural space for the community. The funding will support the transition of Paignton Picture House from a capital restoration project to a fully operational venue ahead of its planned reopening in summer 2026. 

It will enable the recruitment of key staff, including an Operations Manager/Volunteer Coordinator and an Audience Development & Outreach Manager, who will establish the systems, partnerships and audience base needed for long-term success. 

The funding will also deliver a programme of outreach across Torbay, working with partners, schools and community groups to run pop-up screenings, heritage workshops and youth engagement – building trust, visibility and new audiences ahead of opening. 

Alongside this, it will support the development of inclusive programming and the operational infrastructure needed to run the venue day-to-day, including staffing, systems and a clear business model, with initiatives such as membership schemes and accessible pricing. 

Crucially, this investment strengthens the long-term resilience of the organisation. By building loyal audiences, embedding strong partnerships and supporting the transition to a professionally managed venue, it lays the foundations for a sustainable future – ensuring the Picture House can once again play a central role in Paignton’s cultural life. 

Opened in 1914, Paignton Picture House is one of the UK’s earliest surviving purpose-built cinemas. Celebrated for its Arts and Crafts architecture and atmospheric auditorium, it has long been cherished by the people of Torbay. 

The building is famously associated with Agatha Christie, who was a regular visitor and is believed to have watched adaptations of her novels from the balcony. Over the decades, the cinema has hosted countless screenings and community events, becoming deeply woven into the cultural memory of the area. 

Since its closure in 1999, plans have been developed to restore and reimagine the building as a vibrant hub for film, arts and community activity, while preserving its distinctive character. 

Julian Carnell, Trustee, Paignton Picture House Trust, said:  “This is a hugely significant moment for Paignton Picture House and for Torbay. Securing this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund is a powerful endorsement of the vision, passion and determination that so many people have invested in this project over the years. 

“This funding allows us not only to protect and restore an extraordinary piece of our cultural heritage, but to reimagine it as a welcoming, inclusive space that belongs to the community. We’re creating a place where people can come together – to watch films, experience live events, learn, connect, and feel inspired. 

“We’re incredibly grateful to National Lottery players for making this possible, and we’re excited to take the next steps towards reopening the doors and putting Paignton Picture House firmly back at the heart of community life.” 

Stuart McLeod, Director England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:  “Paignton Picture House is a remarkable example of the UK’s cinema heritage and one of the most-loved historic buildings in Torbay. Its revival will transform how this building is used, bringing it back into community use after all these years and helping it look towards its future. We’re delighted to be able to support this journey thanks to National Lottery players.  

“Torbay is one of our Heritage Places, which means there’s enormous potential for heritage to inspire and connect communities. The legacy of this project will do just this, bringing new audiences in and helping Paignton Picture House thrive once again at the heart of the community.”