Catford's cinema returns this summer

Trading as The Castle Catford, the venue will feature three cinema screens alongside community space, a bar and café, restoring a missed cinema and community in the heart of Catford.

The Castle Cinema is an independent, crowd-funded cinema operator established in 2015. They have built a strong reputation for delivering loved community-focused venues in London.

In Catford, they will take on the operation of the cinema and bar, with a strong focus on independent and foreign language films as well as more mainstream titles, ensuring there is something for everyone. They will also take on operation of the main foyer space accessible from Winslade Way, maintaining it as a cafe/food court space which has proven to be popular with the local community in recent years, as well as offering an opportunity for food start-ups to build their business from.

The return of the cinema to Catford forms part of the Council’s long-term strategy to strengthen town centre footfall, support evening and weekend activity and provide accessible cultural opportunities for local residents.

Sign up to get the latest updates for The Castle Catford at castlecatford.com.

Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres OBE, said

“This is just brilliant news not only for Catford but for the wider borough. We shared the community’s view that keeping the cinema offer was incredibly important, and not only has this happened, but we’re going to see it completely transform into an even more vibrant community space.

“I want to thank the local community for their patience while we worked to ensure the best operator was selected, one that we know will contribute to the success of Catford Town Centre, and a place that welcomes everyone. I extend a very warm welcome to The Castle Cinema, we can’t wait to see them open their doors.

“The venue in the heart of Catford is just around the corner from Catford Broadway, and part of the Council’s vision for Lewisham to become a cultural neighbourhood in the wider London landscape. It delivers on the council’s missions to build an economy that works for everyone, with local partnerships and local people at the heart of the Council’s work.”

Councillor James-J Walsh, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, said,

“Securing a sustainable cinema and community operator for 32 Winslade Way has been a clear priority from the outset. When the previous operator’s lease was forfeited, residents were clear that this facility mattered and that retaining a cinema and community space here is essential for Catford’s future. We have worked hard to deliver that.

“This announcement sits alongside the opening of The Catford House, the imminent arrival of Goldsmiths, University of London’s new Catford campus and the delivery of Thomas' Lane Yard, our 100 per cent affordable housing scheme.

“Catford’s renewal is not about quick fixes, it is about steady, responsible regeneration that's shaped by and for the community. Step by step, we are building a stronger and more welcoming town centre that will work for everyone, day and night.”

Asher Charman, co-founder of The Castle Cinema, said,

“We know how much this venue means to Catford, and we’re honoured to be part of its next chapter. Our goal is to bring The Castle’s independent heart to 32 Winslade Way, pairing a world-class film programme with a relaxed, welcoming bar and cafe.

“We’re building more than just a cinema; we’re creating a space for culture and connection, for everyone. From Parent & Baby screenings and LGBTQ+ events to curated strands celebrating Black cinema and local heritage, we want our programme to reflect the true diversity and energy of Catford. We’re excited to build a vibrant social hub where the whole community feels at home. Sign up at castlecatford.com to follow our progress and be the first to hear our opening date!”

Image: Asher and Holly, new operators of The Castle Catford.