Astor Cinema, Newquay 1977

The Astor Cinema in Newquay began life in 1938 as the New Theatre, a smart new entertainment venue for the growing Cornish resort. Built to accommodate both live performances and film screenings, it quickly became a focal point for leisure in the town. Its opening came at a time when Newquay was expanding as a holiday destination, and the theatre offered both locals and visitors a modern, comfortable place to enjoy an evening out.

In 1953, the venue underwent a major change. Acquired by Duchy Cinemas, it was renamed the Astor Cinema and converted into a full-time picture house. The switch reflected the post-war boom in cinema attendance, when films were drawing large audiences across Britain. A CinemaScope screen was installed, allowing the Astor to show the latest widescreen epics and keeping it in line with national trends in film presentation.

For more than two decades, the Astor remained a popular spot, but like many traditional cinemas, it struggled against the rise of television and changing leisure habits. By the late 1970s, audience numbers had fallen dramatically. Around 1978, the Astor closed its doors for the last time. During the late-1980s it was converted into the John Nance carpet showroom—before closing in 2000. It was later demolished and replaced by apartments.

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