The Carlton
Maryport's restored former Carlton Cinema is becoming a major cultural and entertainment venue, with a 280-capacity auditorium, stage, bar, café area, courtyard and accessible facilities. The bar and café are expected to begin opening in mid-September 2026, with arts events following during the autumn.
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About The Carlton
The Carlton is one of Maryport's most important regeneration projects, transforming the former Carlton Cinema on Senhouse Street into a new cultural, entertainment and community venue.
Cumberland Council confirmed in August 2026 that the redevelopment is complete. The building is being operated by Maryport Horizons Community Interest Company on the council's behalf.
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The first phase of public opening is now expected in mid-September 2026, when the bar and café area is scheduled to begin welcoming visitors. Arts and cultural events are expected to follow during the autumn. An exact opening day, regular public opening hours and the first full programme had not been published when this listing was updated, so check current announcements before making a special journey.
Performance space
The ground floor contains a flexible auditorium with capacity for up to 280 people and a permanent stage. The venue has been designed for live music, theatre, comedy, arts activity, community performances and other events.
Bar, café and courtyard
The contemporary extension beside the restored historic building provides the main entrance and a bright bar and café area. Behind it are a conservatory and courtyard, adding space for visitors before, after and around events.
Accessibility
The new entrance is fully accessible and lifts provide access through the building. Visitors who need a particular seating arrangement or other event-specific support should check access information when individual performances are announced.
Creative and business spaces
The upper floors include offices, workshop and co-working areas for businesses, creatives and community organisations. The building also contains a soundproofed broadcast and podcast studio.
Planning a visit
The Carlton is in Maryport town centre on Senhouse Street, within walking distance of the harbour and other central attractions. Irish Street Car Park on Marine Road is a useful large town-centre option and is close to the harbour.
The venue is moving through a phased opening during September and autumn 2026. Do not rely on generic daytime hours: check the latest Carlton or Maryport Horizons information for the bar, café and individual performances before travelling.
Worth It
A major new addition to Maryport's cultural scene. The redevelopment is complete, the café and bar are expected to begin opening in mid-September 2026 and arts events should follow in the autumn. Check the latest programme before travelling while the venue moves through its phased launch.
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