London cult venue Prince Charles cinema saved as 25-year lease renewal is signed
A long-term agreement reached
The celebrated Prince Charles repertory cinema in Leicester Square has signed a new 25-year lease with its landlords. The agreement has no break clause, and the cinema said the deal had staved off the threat of closure.
The venue had faced closure concerns since January 2025. It thanked the many people whose support, commitment and belief helped the cinema, without specifying how many supported it.
Support from film figures
News of the closure threat prompted support from film fans and people in the industry. Those named included actor Paul Mescal and directors Danny Boyle, Robert Eggers, Christopher Nolan and Edgar Wright.
Owner looks to the future
Owner Ben Freedman said the cinema mattered greatly to its team, audiences and the wider arts community. He said the new security would give it confidence to invest in the future and remain a home for film lovers. Freedman said the agreement worked for both parties and would let the cinema look ahead with confidence and excitement to its next chapter.
Oxford cinema faces lease uncertainty
Lease issues also threaten the Ultimate Picture Palace, an independent cinema in Oxford. Its landlord, the University of Oxford’s Oriel College, is refusing to renew the current lease beyond 2037.
Key points
- The Prince Charles cinema has secured a 25-year lease without a break clause.
- The agreement has staved off a closure threat that began in January 2025.
- Paul Mescal and several directors were among those who showed support.
- Oxford’s Ultimate Picture Palace faces lease uncertainty beyond 2037.