Named in memory of Sir John Hurt, the distinguished film actor who lived in Norfolk up until his death in January 2017. The charity’s aim is to promote great cinema in Norfolk – through screenings, nurturing film-makers, providing education, and facilitating workshops.

We are based at Cinema City in Norwich; a three-screen cinema housed in the historic Suckling House and Stuart Hall nestled in the Norwich Lanes, an area in the bustling heart of the city which boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in the UK. The charity is run by a dedicated team of trustees.

The Sir John Hurt Centre opened in 2016 and is housed in part of the Grade I listed building complex. The Centre is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment and modular furniture, providing flexible facilities for meetings, workshops, training or education. Two rooms are available to hire – The Marchesi Room and The Colman Room, both feature beautiful views of the surrounding medieval city. The spaces are accessible with level flooring throughout with access via stairs or lift from the Cinema City courtyard. 

The Sir John Hurt Film Trust acts as custodians of Suckling House and Stuart Hall, the medieval buildings which house Cinema City, acting on behalf of Norwich City Council, which owns the buildings, managing the agreement with the operators of the cinema, restaurant and bar.

Cinema City underwent a major redevelopment in the early 2000s and re-opened in 2007 as a digitally equipped three-screen cinema. The building also boasts The Bar and Dining Rooms in the stunningly restored Great Hall of Suckling House, and a covered medieval courtyard, providing a fantastic setting to enjoy a drink or a meal.