Ripon cinema now set to open early in 2027

Ripon’s new cinema is now due to open in February or March, one of the co-owners revealed today (November 9).

The Stray Ferret reported in March that independent cinema operators John Tate and John Hewitt were to convert the former Original Factory Shop unit on Fishergate into a three-screen cinema.

The two men currently operate cinemas in Wetherby and Ilkley.

The plans were warmly welcomed in the city following the closure of the Curzon cinema on North Street in 2023.

Planning permission was approved in May and the owners planned to open on November 27.

Asked by the Stray Ferret if that date was still expected, Mr Tate said today the project had been delayed and February or March next year was now the projected opening date.

He added November “was always an aspiration rather than a definite opening date”.

Cinema memberships and gift vouchers are now available.

A one-year membership costs £70 and includes discounted tickets, 10% off food and drink and a weekly newsletter. A five-year membership is available at £250.

Members will also be the first to know when tickets go on sale.

Besides the latest releases, the venue will show screenings from the National Theatre and Royal Opera House.

The cinema will have a combined capacity of 157 seats and offer eight to 10 screenings a day between 10.30am and 8pm.