Blackpool's newest cinema experience is now open

After years of development, the Backlot Cinema opened on Friday morning, bringing Lancashire's first Imax to the town centre.

The new cinema is a part of an extension to the Houndshill Shopping Centre, and is located on Coronation Street near the Winter Gardens Complex. 

[22nd March 2024, Blackpool, England] Today marks the grand opening of The Backlot Cinema & Diner, located in Houndshill Shopping Centre’s new extension. The unique destination promises to re-define the cinematic experience and bring the very best entertainment to the heart of the local community.

The multi-screen cinema & diner, a pivotal part of the town’s major regeneration project, will be an experience like no other. The cinematic wonderland will go beyond showcasing the latest Hollywood releases, by offering a diverse selection of films from arthouse titles, family favourites and timeless silver screen classics.

The Backlot boasts Lancashire’s only IMAX ® screen and one of the largest in the North West - standing at a gigantic 10.85m tall and 19.87m wide. The location is equipped with IMAX with Laser, IMAX’s most immersive theatrical experience. Immersive by design, IMAX with Laser has been developed from the ground-up to deliver crystal clear, lifelike images and precision audio for a moviegoing experience unlike anything else.

Timed perfectly for Easter holidays, The Backlot opens its doors with an exciting line-up of new blockbuster releases: Dune: Part Two, Ghostbusters and Godzilla X Kong. There are also screenings of films such as Barbie, Oppenheimer and Wonka, that were released during the last ten months when the town has been without a multi-screen cinema.

Designed to be a vibrant arts and entertainment hub, The Backlot is equipped with cutting-edge technology to host live gaming tournaments and corporate conferences. There will also be regular events, such as comedy nights, film festivals, diner and movie packages, and local community meetups, which will ensure that it becomes a cultural focal point for both local residents and Blackpool tourists. Complementing the big screen, The Backlot’s 100-seater diner will serve fresh burgers, hotdogs and sticky wings, along with a delicious range of desserts, including American-style thick pancakes, indulgent sundaes and thick milkshakes.

The Backlot’s founder and owner, John Sullivan said: "As we unveil The Backlot, our vision is to create not just a cinema but a cultural haven for the Blackpool community. We believe in crafting an immersive experience that goes beyond the screen, inviting our customers to indulge in the magic of cinema with a completely bespoke programme and a delicious diner. The Backlot is a celebration of art, entertainment, and the vibrant spirit of Blackpool. Our brilliant team is ready to deliver a truly exceptional 5-star experience, where every visit will be a feast for the senses."