Timeline

This blog aims to document the history of The Regal Cinema in St Ives, Cambs, which operated between 1920-1985.

Here's a brief history of cinema in St Ives:

Early 1900s - silent films are shown in The Liberal Hall (now The Music Box).

9th Dec 1920 - The Broadway Kinema, the first full-time cinema in St Ives, opens in the former ballroom of Witton House. It was ornately decorated, featuring a colonnaded entrance with marble steps, and had a seating capacity of 350.

1930s - The Kinema changes its name to The Regal Cinema. It was bought by the Bostock Circuit of theatres and cinemas, who updated it by removing the more ornate decor and upgrading the picture and sound.

1963 - The Regal was sold by the Bostocks and bought by cinema businessman George Randall, who managed it with his wife Nan until its closure.

1985 - The Regal Cinema closes its doors for the final time.