Movie Starr

The old cinema building in Benfleet has been given a proper second life as Movie Starr, a theatre that screens films and hosts live events. It's got that authentic vintage feel - the sort of place where you can still imagine queuing for tickets in the 1950s, even though the programming is thoroughly modern.

You'll find everything from the latest releases to classic films, plus occasional live performances and special events. The screen quality is decent, and crucially, it doesn't feel like a multiplex chain - there's actual character in the venue. The staff know what they're doing, and the atmosphere tends to be more relaxed than the big commercial cinemas you'd find elsewhere.

This works particularly well if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Essex Glamping or Haven Kent Coast - and need an evening out without leaving the area. Bad weather day sorted. Families with kids will appreciate it, though obviously depending on what's on. Adults after a proper cinema experience rather than popcorn-fuelled chaos will rate it highly.

The exact opening hours and admission prices aren't straightforward to find without ringing ahead, so check the website first or call them directly. Don't assume it's showing what you want to see - it's worth planning around rather than a last-minute option. Worth the detour from your holiday base if there's something on you fancy, but not a destination in itself.