This is the oldest cinema in Wales. It has been showing movies since 1911. It was renamed after the Market Hall, which was erected in 1844 and later renovated in the same century. The hall’s earliest films were most likely projected by travelling showmen.
The front rows of seats were meant to be removed every Friday night when the structure was transformed into a permanent cinema in 1911. For the Saturday market, new tables were set up, and the hardwood floor was cleaned — but the stench of abandoned fruit lingered until the afternoon matinée film!
The Castle Cinema and Wyeside Cinema were two different names for the same institution. The unique façade was constructed in the 1930s as part of a renovation that includes an outside lobby and a projection room with the most up-to-date technology. The ancient entry arch, which separates the outer and inner foyers, may still be seen. The theatre was decreased in size in the 1970s to make room for an indoor market in the area currently occupied by the library.
After the local government suggested closing the cinema, a community organisation took over its operation in June 2013.
The cinema offers 2 for 1 ticket every Wednesday.
