The Arc Cinema

The Arc Cinema in Daventry is one of those proper independent picture houses that's become increasingly rare. It's a working theatre showing current releases alongside the odd classic screening, and the kind of place where you actually want to sit down rather than just grab popcorn and rush through.

The building itself has character - proper cinema, not a multiplex shoehorned into a shopping centre. Locals are genuinely protective of the place, which tells you something. The screen's decent, the seats are comfortable enough, and there's something quite nice about watching a film somewhere that feels like it matters to the community.

You'll need to check their website or ring ahead for current programmes and ticket prices, but it's absolutely worth doing if you're staying in the area. An evening showing works well if you're based at one of the nearby glamping spots like EWE Glamping or Hideaway Wood Farm - both a short drive away. Even Whitefeather Campsite is only a couple of miles out.

It's not a day-long attraction, obviously - allow an hour or so for a film. Go mid-week if you can; weekends get busy. The real value here is having somewhere decent to spend an evening when you've had your fill of countryside walks. For families with older kids who aren't glued to streaming services, it's a proper treat. Younger children might fidget - depends on the film and your lot.