The Lighthouse ...

Described by The Arts Council as "A local resource of national significance which aims to entertain, stimulate and inspire", the Lighthouse is the UK's biggest arts centre outside the capital. Featuring Theatre, Cinema, Music, Visual Arts, Literature and other events, it was originally known as Poole Arts Centre.

Built in 1978 it was a huge success, but by the mid 1990s it became apparent that the Centre was in need of refurbishment and refreshment. Accordingly, Poole unitary local authority commissioned a feasibility study. 

In 1996 this led to the appointment of a new Board and management team who developed the plans for the refurbishment of the building. Modifications included a new gallery space and redesigned cinema space. Front of house, bars, café and circulation areas were reorganised and modernised with improvements made to access. The facade of the building was animated with a lighter architectural form and the building lit to be an attractive beacon after dark.

Licensed for a capacity of 4,000, it contains a 669 seat theatre, 1,500 seat concert hall (home to theBournemouth Symphony Orchestra), 150 seat studio, 105 seat cinema, image lab and media suite, a gallery for photography and digital art, a restaurant and function rooms.

The radically refurbished building reopened as The Lighthouse in the summer of 2002

Visit The Lighthouse website here