The iconic cinema has been a staple of Bristol city centre since 1938The iconic Broadmead cinema has been a staple of Bristol city centre since 1938The iconic Broadmead cinema has been a staple of Bristol city centre since 1938(Image: Dan Regan/BristolLive)

A historic cinema in Bristol city centre is closing its doors after nearly 90 years.

Broadmead’s Odeon , which has been open since the 1930s, will air its final film on February 11, 2026.

This is in time for the brand new Odeon Luxe to open the following day, February 12, in the former Showcase de Lux cinema at Cabot Circus.

The Odeon on Union Street first opened on July 16, 1938.

In August, Odeon cinema chain announced it would be taking on the vacant space on the top floor of Cabot Circus.

Then in November the shopping centre revealed that the Odeon Luxe cinema would open in early 2026.

In a post on its website, Odeon states: “Get ready to experience a little more luxury at your new favourite cinema, ODEON Luxe Bristol, opening February 2026 in Cabot Circus Shopping Centre.

“Enjoy some of the year’s biggest releases, including Wuthering Heights, Goat, Scream 7, and more in our luxury recliners with extra legroom.”

In an email sent to movie lovers, Odeon confirmed the closure of the Broadmead cinema on February 11 while announcing the new cinema will open the following day on February 12.

It said: “We are writing to let you know that Odeon Bristol will be closing on February 11, 2026. The good news is that Odeon Luxe Bristol will open its doors the very next day, on February 12, 2026, just a short distance away.”

Sharing their thoughts on Reddit about the Broadmead branch’s closure, one cinephile said: “I’m very very sad about this.

“Even though the Union Street one is the definition of a “flea pit” these days – It was where I saw my first ever film as a tiny boy. Star Wars! I also saw the Star Wars double bill with Empire Strikes Back and the classic of classics: Transformers: The Movie. Roger Rabbit, I could go on and on.

“I hope they find a good use for the building. Something appropriate and not just flats.”

Reminiscing in the comments, another added: “I echo your sentiment entirely. Fond memories of the place, but it ain’t what it was.

“I’m sure I have memories of entering via the main lower foyer as a young kid, but this would have been circa 83/84 around the time of the refurbishment, so possibly mandela effect (but I hope not).”

“A bit sad really,” someone else said.

“It’s a historic cinema built almost 90 years ago. Of the 250 odd original Odeons built by Oscar Deutsch in the 1920s and 1930s this is one of only 6 left.”

Another said: “I will miss the haunted screen.”