Picture House, Grade II listed cinema building in Stafford, England
The Picture House is a listed building on Bridge Street in Stafford built in Tudor style with distinctive black and white timber framing and a stucco exterior. The structure features a seven-bay barrel-vaulted ceiling and a central gable that exemplify early 20th-century cinema design.
The cinema opened in 1914 and showed films until 1995 before being converted into a pub. During its time as a movie venue, it offered silent film screenings with live musical accompaniment.
This place served as a social hub for the local community and continues to define the character of Bridge Street with its striking features. The conversion to a pub preserved many original details that visitors can still notice when they step inside.
The building sits centrally in Stafford and is easily reached on foot along Bridge Street. Since it now operates as a pub, visitors should expect typical bar opening hours and an interior designed for dining and drinks.
A French Celesta organ by Mustel provided the musical accompaniment for silent films from 1917 onward, creating the right mood for audiences. This rare instrument is a remarkable reminder of how cinemas once enhanced the viewing experience.
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