I created this blog post to align with the recommendations set by @OurDerby. You can find their blog which provides insight into the city of Derby here: https://ourderby.wordpress.com/

Let’s explore what Derby has to offer in the realm of film and entertainment. The rise and subsequent fall of the British high street has had an interesting effect on the cinema landscape. Derby city centre has seen 20 different cinemas over the years, with the first being established on Curzon Street in 1904 and conducting regular screenings on Saturdays. Cinema technology has come a long way since then and Derby has some prime examples we can explore.

Present Cinemas

Showcase Cinema De Lux

Location: Intu Derby, Level 3 West Mall Intu, Derby DE1 2PQ

Website: https://www.showcasecinemas.co.uk/showtimes/showcase-cinema-de-lux-derby

If you are looking for things to do in Derby city centre, its so easy to access the showcase. Being located in the shopping centre it has everything you need, parking facilities, a food court just down stairs and of cause all the latest blockbusters to enjoy.

The Showcase has the largest screen available in Derby combined with complete surround sound, the XLR viewing experience is not one to miss especially when it comes to the biggest films of the year, such as the recent Avengers: Endgame. There is also the option to splash out an take a trip to the Directors’ Lounge, a smaller screening venue with large seating and a bar right outside, not to mention complimentary popcorn and a drink.

Odeon Luxe Derby

Location: Meteor Centre, Mansfield Rd, Derby DE21 4SY

Website: https://www.odeon.co.uk/cinemas/derby/32/

The Odeon cinema in Derby can be found just outside the city centre, thus it is centred around a calmer atmosphere. It is therefore perfect for more intimate occasions particularly because all the seating in every screen are recliners, so you will have plenty of leg room. Even the entrance conveys a message of luxury, with their blue and chrome house style, the foyer greets you with a large selection of drinks and nibbles to choose from. As well as casual viewings the Odeon offers a monthly membership that will allow you to view as many films as your heart desires.

Quad Cinema

Location: Cathedral Quarter, Market Place, Derby DE1 3AS

Website: https://www.derbyquad.co.uk/whats-on/cinema

The Quad cinema is the most unique cinema to Derby. It is run on the principals of participating in art and therefore aims to educate through creative activities including films and exhibitions. It’s a strong supporter of the indie scene and often presents films you won’t see in the other cinemas. You will be able to find films from all corners of the earth and even home-grown projects. They offer events such as Q&As with directors, links with film festivals and re-releases of classics. This cinema is a home for true film fans.

The history of this cinema works as a perfect Segway to the next section. With some of the original projection equipment from the Metro cinema, a historic independent cinema that sadly closed in 2008.      

Past Cinemas

Cinemas have a history of being some of the most architecturally interesting buildings that lit up the high street. Sadly, those days are gone, as are most of the buildings in Derby.

The Hippodrome is one of the remaining buildings from cinema days gone by. It was opened in the 1930’s, located on green street in the heart of Derby city. It was both a theatre and a cinema.

The building itself has had a storied past. Its hosted guests such as Morecombe and Wise, it was turned into a bingo hall and almost destroyed to build a car park. Now it sits idly by waiting for the next investor to decide its fate.

Unless the Derby Hippodrome Restoration Trust has anything to say about it. Even though the building is infected with rust and decay, they still hold a consistent effort to save this time capsule of a building.

You can find their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/DerbyHippoRT/