Introducing Loop: Ashford's new place to go, again and again

Something new is coming to Elwick Place, Ashford on 27 November 2026.

The Ashford Cinema is evolving into Loop, a new all-day entertainment and lifestyle destination bringing together cinema, food and drink, social games, live events and flexible workspace.

The cinema will remain at the heart of Loop, alongside a host of new experiences designed to give people more choice in how they spend their time – whether that’s a coffee and some work, a family film, a game with friends, dinner and drinks or a night of live entertainment.

Over the past two years, The Big Picture has successfully revitalised the business, increasing admissions by more than 25% and helping secure the cinema’s long-term future as a thriving town-centre destination. Now, the business is taking the next step with the launch of Loop.

Keith Pullinger from The Big Picture said: “Loop is about creating somewhere that feels easy to come to and easy to enjoy. Whether you’re here for a film, coffee with a friend, a family day out, a few hours of work or an evening with friends, there’ll be plenty to experience and plenty of reasons to come back.

"The cinema will always be an important part of what we do. We’re building on that to give people more reasons to visit and more to make the most of their time here.  

"We’re really excited to be bringing something new to Ashford – a place with so much to do, whether you’re coming for a film, a meal, a game or an event. There’s still plenty to reveal, and we can’t wait to share more over the coming months.”

Something for every kind of visit

Loop will introduce a range of 11 different social and interactive entertainment experiences, including bowling, golf simulators, interactive darts and karaoke.

A varied programme of live events will include comedy, live music and quizzes, alongside activities that bring the community together, from Pilates, yoga and salsa to chess tournaments and Dungeons & Dragons.

The food and drink offer will feature pizzas, burgers, sharing dishes, sides and a wide choice of drinks, whether you’re stopping by for something to eat, meeting friends or settling in for the evening. At the heart of the space will be an impressive bar area, creating a lively social space to enjoy everything from a casual drink to cocktails and drinks with friends. 

Flexible workspace will also offer half-day and full day passes alongside membership options, providing a place to work, meet and take a break outside of the traditional office environment.

More experiences and events will be revealed in the run-up to launch.

Creating new opportunities in Ashford

Loop will also bring more than 30 new jobs to Ashford as the venue expands its entertainment, events, food and drink and workspace offers.

The team will play an important role in creating the atmosphere that makes Loop different - people who enjoy being around others, take pride in making people feel welcome and want to help create experiences that guests will remember.

Ben Hammond, General Manager said “We’re looking for people who are warm, friendly and full of energy - people who genuinely enjoy creating great experiences for others.”  

“The team will be at the heart of what makes Loop feel different. We want every visit to feel easy, enjoyable and welcoming, and we’re looking for people who share that approach and want to be part of creating something new for Ashford. There are more than 30 new roles coming up, and we would love to hear from people who want to be part of it.”

Be the first to hear what’s coming

There’s plenty more to come before Loop opens on Friday 27 November 2026. Sign-ups are now open for In the Loop, the Loop newsletter, offering subscribers the chance to be among the first to hear what’s coming to the new venue, from new experiences and events to launch news and offers.

Everyone who signs up to In the Loop will also be in with a chance of winning a VIP Loop experience.

Those interested in joining the Loop team can register their interest via the Loop website.

Find out more and sign up at The Loop's website.