Whether a local or just visiting, going to the movies is a fun way to spend a few hours. In Newcastle there are a variety of cinemas to suit every taste and budget.

Going to the movies can be a relaxing way to spend time. There are cinemas in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Hunter Valley areas in New South Wales, Australia to suit all interests. Most cinemas show mainstream new releases, but some also screen classics or foreign films.

Visitors to the area can also enjoy a trip to the movies. For tourists without their own car, the central city cinemas and those located in the suburban shopping centres of Charlestown and Glendale are easily accessible by public transport. Timetable and route information can be accessed at the Newcastle Buses website or by phoning 131500. Bus transport is free in the inner city, so parking in Newcastle West and catching a bus can prove easier than finding a parking space in the centre of town.

Hoyts Charlestown - 244 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown - (02) 4942 1811

This six-screen cinema has a large carpark with some undercover parks available. It is only a short walk to Charlestown Square shopping centre, where there are a variety of food outlets. The usual Hoyts ticket deals and booking arrangements apply.

Greater Union Glendale - Stockland Supercentre, Lake Rd, Glendale - (02) 4956 9331

Part of the Stockland Glendale shopping centre complex, this multi-screen cinema has plenty of parking, but no undercover parks. There are several coffee shops and fast food options nearby, but limited access to restaurants.

Tower Greater Union - 183-185 King St, Newcastle - (02) 4926 2233

Limited on-street parking with parking meters during the day. Undercover parking is available, at a charge, in parking stations nearby. Sessions at this three-screen cinema are often not as crowded, even for more popular movies, due to the inner city location and restricted parking. Close to coffee shops and restaurants in Newcastle City mall and Darby St, Cooks Hill.

Both Glendale and Newcastle cinemas have the usual Greater Union ticket deals and booking arrangements.

Showcase City Cinema - 31 Wolfe St, Newcastle - (02) 4929 5019

A small independent cinema located off the Newcastle mall. Parking as per the Tower Cinemas. The Showcase City offers both new release movies and special events such as film festivals.

Lake Cinema - 62 Main Rd, Boolaroo - (02) 4958 5810

This small local theatre has great ticket prices (all tickets $6). There is only limited seating, so it is important to arrive on time to ensure that tickets are still available. There is no off-street parking and it is important to take note of parking signs in the main street – one hour limit on spaces during the day. Tickets are only sold from one hour before each movie commences and there are no bookings for sessions before 7pm. Double sessions offer complementary tea, coffee and biscuits at interval. There is a kiosk available.

Scotty’s Cinema Centre - Cnr Adelaide St and Burke St East, Raymond Terrace - (02) 4987 7333

Currently cash payments only are accepted for tickets with an ATM available in the foyer. A small local cinema located in Raymond Terrace, on the Pacific Highway heading north of Newcastle.

Reading Cinemas - Ken Tubman Dr, Maitland - 4934 2240

Large four-screen cinemas, with new release films, kiosk and free parking. Maitland is the gateway to the Hunter Valley for visitors travelling from Newcastle. Within 30 minutes from the Hunter vineyards and wineries. Usual Reading Cinemas prices and specials apply.

Heddon Greta Drive-In - Off Heddon St, Heddon Greta - (02) 4936 2800

The only drive-in in the Hunter Valley, servicing the Valley, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. Cash payment only for tickets. The website lists opening times and includes a link to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website showing a predicted rainfall gauge for the area. Ticket prices are per vehicle (up to 8 people) and FM radio reception required to hear the movie. There is a kiosk and amenities on site.

Not just for Newcastle locals (or Novocastrians), heading to the movies is a relaxing way to take a few hours out from the hectic pace of sightseeing and tours, especially if the weather isn’t co-operating with travel plans.