Merlin Cinemas

A bit more info

This is an old building with a new lease of life. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.

When did you open?

We opened for our first event on Saturday 20th September 2025. But we bought the building in 2013.

Is it a cinema?

Yes and no. It can be, but it is also a hundred other things depending on what's happening on the day. We are already planning silent discos, stand up comedy, live bands, dance classes, private parties, hosting local and national DJs, drama, burlesque, as well as taking enquiries about corporate events and special occasions. But we are also equipt with a stunning laser projector and large cinema screen. Watch this space for special film events.

How do I book?

Online booking will be the easiest way to book as the venue is open for in-person and telephone booking only occasionally; this is especially true while we're establishing ourselves.

We hope you find our website useful! This venue is a little different to what we have done before, so we're continually refining the process to ensure it's as easy as possible to book.

If you run into trouble our Support Office is available by emailing action@merlincinemas.co.uk

Can I turn up on the door and buy tickets?

This depends on availability. If the event is sold out in advance, our website will indicate this.

What is the seating plan?

An overview of the seating plans is available here

Here are some helpful images to show the venue from different parts of the building here

The venue is one auditorium with the Stalls, Terraces, and Boxes on the ground floor and the Circle on the first floor.

The Circle is accessed via a large staircase, so this section of the auditorium is not suitable for wheelchair users and others with mobility needs. However, the ground floor offers easy access for all.

The ground floor space and furniture will adapt to the event that is happening, so you may see different seating plans in use when booking, or no choice of seat at all for standing or unallocated events.

For some events the dance floor will be left clear for dancing.

For some events the dance floor will have rows of seats, and other events nests of small 2-seater tables.

The Terraces around the dance floor are in 2 parts: the Upper Terrace and the Lower Terrace, which are separated by a shallow step down from the Upper to the Lower Terrace.

Much of the Upper Terrace is easily accessible to wheelchair users.

Are you doing food?

Yes! We have a full commercial kitchen on site and a menu which changes depending on the show. Take a note of the event details on the website; this will indicate if there will be food available and how to pre-book. Here is the current menu (last updated Sept 2025)

Are you doing Bingo?

It's not on the list at the moment, but if there was a demand, we would consider it for the future.

Is there a cloakroom?

No, at the moment, though we are looking at options after requests.

How do I find out about your ticket prices?

Each event will have different prices, so please check on a show-by-show basis.

What is the Theatre Investment Fund?

This is part of the ticket price which goes directly to the venue to maintain the facilities and ensure

Is there a booking fee?

There is a £1 booking fee per person

I have a Merlin Cinemas Movie Magic Card; can I use it at Ritz?

Yes, the food and drink discount will work at Ritz. The ticket discount will only work on selected film screenings. It will not work on any live events or special film events. Please check on a case-by-case.

Want more details? Please get in touch via ritz@merlincinemas.co.uk

FAQ

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