Windmill Cinema, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
The Windmill Cinema (formerly known as the Gem Cinema) was built in 1908 and designed by A. S. Hewitt. It is probably Britain's first purpose built seaside cinema. The Gem Cinema was first intended as a venue for a wild animal show. Variety performances were also held in the large, flat-floored hall behind the elaborate façade. Men and women sat on separate sides of the auditorium. It became the Windmill Cinema (or Windmill Theatre as it is sometimes referred to) in 1945.
