For decades, The Ultimate Picture Palace has held a special place in the hearts of film lovers in Oxford. Nestled in the heart of Cowley Road, our historic cinema has been a cherished destination, captivating audiences with its diverse film selection and creating a strong sense of community through shared moments of cinema magic.

In 2018, an opportunity emerged when the previous owner, Becky Hallsmith, sadly passed away, leaving The Ultimate Picture Palace up for sale. Based on Becky’s wishes for the business and realizing the immense value that a community can bring to the arts, we made a decision: to transition into a community-owned cinema, entrusting the power and future of this iconic establishment to those who hold it closest to their hearts—you, our loyal patrons and devoted film fans.

In June 2022, thanks to the tireless dedication and unwavering support of over 1,200 cinephiles who purchased community shares, a remarkable milestone was achieved. The Ultimate Picture Palace was bought by The Ultimate Picture Palace Community Cinema Ltd (UPPCC), a Community Benefit Society allowing it to officially become a community-owned business, marking a significant moment in the cinema’s history and securing the future of business