ABC and Catford’s Lost Cinema

ABC and Catford’s Lost Cinema

For most of the twentieth century, Catford housed a number of cinemas making it a popular hang out spot for South Londoners.

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Photo coutesy of Lewisham Archive

Opened in 1909 and closed in 1914, The Electric Picture Palace stood at 8 Sangley Road. It was demolished in the 1990s and replaced by a block of flats.

1909-1914 The Electric Picture Palace
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- Photo coutesy of Lewisham Archive
- Photo coutesy of Lewisham Archive
The Central Hall Picture House opened in 1913. Later renamed The Plaza, The Cannon and then the ABC cinema, it sat on the corner of Sangley Road and screened films as well as hosting variety and liver performances.

1913-1981 Catford Picture House

Oral history of Hazel Savill
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It wasn’t just Catford that has lost its cinemas. Lewisham used to have several throughout the borough, nearly all of which have now gone. You can read more here.

The lost cinemas of South London
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The ABC, or more commonly known as the Catford Cinema, continued to show films until 2001 when it closed. The building still stands but is now used as a church. Residents of Catford still talk about the fond memories they have of the notorious Catford Cinema and continue to mourn the loss of their many cinemas.

1981-2001 The Catford Cinema

Oral history of Enomwoyi Damali

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- Photo by Warren King
- Photo by Warren King
- Photo by Kevin Ireland
Catford Tales paid homage to the beloved cinemas of Catford, making use of the Studio performance space to bring memories of the cinema to life.

2015 Catford Tales
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