Jam Jar Cinema
Independent, community-run cinema in the heart of Whitley Bay, showing the best of new releases, classics, documentaries and world cinema across three screens, with two bars and full accessibility.
About Jam Jar Cinema
Jam Jar Cinema is an independent, community-based cinema on Park Avenue in Whitley Bay, which opened in a former derelict Job Centre building in September 2013. It began as a single 50-seat screen and expanded in 2019 to three screens with digital DCI projection, two bar areas, a lift and step-free access, making it welcoming and accessible to all. Run as a community interest company, it offers a friendly, affordable and inclusive alternative to the multiplex.
The programme spans new releases, cult classics, documentaries, family films and world cinema, alongside special events, and the venue is a natural home for the Whitley Bay Film Festival each September. With its bars and comfortable screens just off Whitley Road, the Jam Jar is a cornerstone of the town's cultural life and an easy Metro ride from across the coast.
Featured in These Guides
Blog posts and guides that feature Jam Jar Cinema.
Whitley Bay Film Festival Returns for September 2026 with Nick Broomfield
The volunteer-run film festival is back across Jam Jar Cinema, St Mary's Lighthouse and other coastal venues this September, with documentary maker Nick Broomfield headlining opening night.
Family Activities in Whitley Bay: Days Out with the Kids
The best family days out in Whitley Bay, from the beach and the Links to St Mary's Lighthouse, the Spanish City and a great spread of rainy-day soft play, grouped so you can plan around the weather.
Date Night in Whitley Bay: Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do
Where to eat, drink and wander for a romantic evening in Whitley Bay, from Park View restaurants and the Spanish City dome to cocktails, craft ale and a walk along the seafront.
An Evergreen Guide to the Whitley Bay Film Festival
A volunteer-run celebration of cinema in unforgettable coastal settings: what the Whitley Bay Film Festival is, its distinctive venues, and how to find the programme and book tickets each September.
More Sports & Leisure in Whitley Bay
Spanish City
The North East's most iconic seafront building, the Grade II listed Spanish City dome originally opened in 1910 as a concert hall and tearoom. Beautifully restored and reopened in 2018, it now houses restaurants, a tearoom, and event spaces beneath its landmark dome.
Whitley Bay Playhouse
A state-of-the-art theatre and entertainment venue hosting music, drama, comedy, dance, and family shows throughout the year. The Playhouse is a cultural centrepiece for the town with a busy programme of touring productions and local events.
Waves Leisure Centre
A popular leisure centre near the seafront with a swimming pool featuring wave machine and flumes, gym, spa facilities, and soft play area. A go-to destination for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
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What's On
The North East King of Swing: Jason Isaacs
7:00 PM - 12:30 AM · St Mary's Lighthouse Suite, Spanish City, Spanish City Plaza, Whitley Bay, NE26 1BG
The Creedence Clearwater Review
7:30 PM · Playhouse Whitley Bay, Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay, NE26 1LZ
WBMTC: We Will Rock You
7:15 PM evenings, plus 2:15 PM matinee on 31 October · Playhouse Whitley Bay, Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay, NE26 1LZ