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London’s popular Catford Mews cinema is getting a new lease of life, thanks to another independent cinema eight miles across the city.
Hackney’s The Castle Cinema has taken ownership of Catford Mews, which closed in November 2024 after the previous operator was evicted over rent arrears.
Lewisham borough’s only cinema, Catford Mews will reopen later in 2026 as The Castle Catford, with three screens as well as a community space, bar and café, bringing independent cinema back to this corner of south east London.
‘In Catford, [The Castle] will take on the operation of the cinema and bar, with a strong focus on independent and foreign language films as well as more mainstream titles, ensuring there is something for everyone,’ says Lewisham Council in a statement.
‘They will also take on operation of the main foyer space accessible from Winslade Way, maintaining it as a cafe/food court space which has proven to be popular with the local community in recent years, as well as offering an opportunity for food start-ups to build their business from.’
Great news, in other words, for locals who came to love Catford Mews as a community hub and seed bed for local businesses – as well as local movie fans.
‘We’re building more than just a cinema,’ says The Castle’s co-founder Asher Charman, ‘we’re creating a space for culture and connection, for everyone. From Parent & Baby screenings and LGBTQ+ events to curated strands celebrating Black cinema and local heritage, we want our programme to reflect the true diversity and energy of Catford. We’re excited to build a vibrant social hub where the whole community feels at home.’
The Castle, which opened in 2015 after a Kickstarter campaign, has become one of London’s most beloved indie cinemas. The Mews cinema should be in the safest of hands.
Sign up to castlecatford.com for updates on The Castle Catford and news of its opening date.