Business Details
Award-Winning Cinema in Lewes
Lewes Depot is an award-winning independent 3-screen cinema located in the heart of Lewes, East Sussex, within the South Downs National Park. We provide an innovative programme of mainstream, arthouse, and independent films, complemented by live art events, educational workshops, and community-focused initiatives. Our venue features state-of-the-art projection and sound technology, a destination restaurant, and versatile private hire spaces. As a not-for-profit organisation with Charitable Trust status, we prioritise accessibility, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility.Our dedicated team of 80 employees and 55 volunteers ensures a seamless experience for visitors, while our commitment to sustainability has earned recognition through awards such as the Creative Green Highest Achievement for Commitment prize. We actively engage with local suppliers, promote cultural diversity, and strive to be a beacon of sustainable practice within the cinema industry.
Services
Film Screenings
Private Hire
Live Arts Events
Restaurant
Workshops
Event Catering
Gift Vouchers
Sustainability Programmes
Community Outreach
Film Education
Highlights and features
- Award-winning sustainability practices with national recognition
- Diverse programming spanning arthouse, mainstream, and live arts
- State-of-the-art cinema technology in three premium screens
- Community-focused venue with 80+ local employees and volunteers
- Sustainable restaurant sourcing from regional producers
Associations and certifications
- Creative Green
- Julies Bicycle
- The Big Screen Awards
What people say
Award-winning sustainability
Diverse film selection
Community hub
Excellent facilities
Engaging events
Services
Film Screenings
Lewes Depot offers a curated selection of mainstream, arthouse, and independent films across three screens. Our programming includes world cinema, documentaries, and classic films, enhanced by Q&A sessions with industry professionals. The venue features Dolby Atmos sound and 4K projection technology for an immersive viewing experience.
Private Hire
Host events in our award-winning architectural spaces, including three cinema screens, a gallery, and outdoor garden. Ideal for weddings, conferences, and private screenings, our facilities combine modern technology with flexible layouts. In-house catering and technical support ensure seamless event execution.
Live Arts Events
Experience live performances from the Royal Opera House, Royal Ballet, and National Theatre, alongside local artistic showcases. Our programme bridges global productions with community-driven arts, fostering cultural exchange and creative development within the South Downs region.
Sustainability Programmes
We implement carbon-reduction strategies aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, including energy-efficient systems and sustainable procurement. Recognised with Creative Green and Big Screen Awards, our practices educate visitors and set industry benchmarks for environmentally responsible cinema operations.
Film Education
Deliver practical filmmaking courses and educational workshops for all ages, led by industry professionals. Programmes include screenwriting introductions, youth filmmaking classes, and school screenings that combine technical training with creative storytelling development in a professional cinema environment.
People
Carmen Slijpen
Founder, Creative Director and Programmer
Carmen co-founded Lewes Depot in 2011, championing sustainable arthouse cinema. With Amsterdam projectionist training, she transformed her vision into a successful community cinema, prioritising environmental responsibility and cultural diversity in programming.
Robert Senior
Founder, Chair of Trustees
An entrepreneur and philanthropist, Robert co-founded Lewes Depot. He combines his lifelong film passion with strategic leadership as Chair of Trustees, guiding the venue's development while maintaining its community-focused ethos.
Petra Rinne Lovelock
Head of People & Operations
Petra oversees HR and operations for 80+ staff, ensuring inclusive workplace practices. Her focus on customer service excellence and operational efficiency supports Lewes Depot's mission to be both a cultural and community hub in Lewes.
Tim Rendle
Head Chef
Tim leads the kitchen team, creating seasonal menus using local produce. His culinary expertise blends British and Italian influences, reflecting Lewes Depot's commitment to regional suppliers and sustainable hospitality practices.
Dan Short
Technical Manager
With 30+ years as a projectionist, Dan manages technical operations. His expertise ensures cutting-edge cinema technology functions seamlessly, supporting Lewes Depot's mission to deliver premium viewing experiences in Sussex.
Questions
What types of films do you show?
We screen mainstream, arthouse, independent films, documentaries, and classics, alongside live arts broadcasts from institutions like the National Theatre.
Can I hire the venue for private events?
Yes, our spaces accommodate weddings, conferences, private screenings, and celebrations with tailored packages and in-house catering.
How does Depot support sustainability?
We implement carbon-reduction strategies, sustainable procurement, and energy-efficient systems aligned with UN SDGs, achieving industry-leading environmental certifications.
Are there educational programmes available?
We offer filmmaking workshops, screenwriting courses, and school screenings led by industry professionals for all age groups.
How can I become a member?
Annual membership at £45 provides four free tickets, 10% off additional tickets, and exclusive perks supporting independent cinema.
Do you offer accessible screenings?
Yes, we provide descriptive subtitles, relaxed viewings, and baby-friendly screenings weekly to ensure inclusive cinema access.
Reviews (4)
Jan Pearson
Jan 22, 2022
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We visited The Depot on 22 January for an evening meal before the cinema. The service was quick and efficient, the food was exceptionally good as was the wine and coffee. Cannot praise The Depot enough. Thank you.
Mark W.
Jan 16, 2022
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Ales, cakes and all sorts to eat in lovely environment. Interesting building, (old brewery depot), tastefully refurbished. Outdoor eating available in pleasant setting.
David H. Thomas
Jan 09, 2022
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I absolutely love this place. The restaurant has excellent food and coffee and you can eat outside or inside. The atmosphere is welcoming and being able to have a snack or meal either before or after you see a movie in the cinema is wonderful.
Mark Hagen
Dec 26, 2021
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Went to see the Royal Ballet live stream at the Depot and had dinner in the restaurant beforehand. All very enjoyable, very good 3 course meal and wine and the ballet stream was excellent. It's Christmas so, of course, it was the Nutcracker, it was great fun, very colourful etc. Seating was "separated" with an empty seat between groups, but all available seats were taken. At the end some folks stood up and applauded, not sure how the Royal Ballet in London was supposed to hear them in Lewes but it shows that, like me, they really enjoyed the performance and showing. And the great meal in the restaurant
