Do you remember The Carlton Cinema in Watford?

Richard Massara, a member of the Watford Observer’s new nostalgia Facebook page We grew up in Watford, has posted these pictures and others of the cinema.

He recalls: “Remembering the Carlton Cinema on Clarendon Road (next to the Palace for those who don't remember it). One time skating rink, and sadly demolished in the early 1980s. This used to tell me we had arrived in town - now to head for Beatties!”

If you grew up in Watford and are interested in the town and its past, join our new Facebook group via this link.

Watford Observer:

The website cinematreasures.org states the Carlton opened as the Super Cinema in February 1921 after the former roller skating rink was converted.

The Rank organisation acquired the lease to the cinema in 1950 but continued to sub-let it until 1963.

However, it decided to take control after the closure of the Odeon and have the Carlton as a second cinema in Watford to the soon to be renamed Gaumont to Odeon.

Watford Observer:

Watford Observer:

Rank decided against renewing their lease in 1980 and the Carlton Cinema closed on July 19, 1980.

It was converted into a furniture showroom for short time before the bulldozers moved in to demolish the former cinema in September 1982.

Watford Observer: