Rotherham is Wonderful: Ponds Forge, Rotherham – a new, hidden gem!

Rotherham is going through an exciting period of development with the markets being transformed and Forge Island having a brand new hotel and cinema.

The Arc Cinema

The Arc Cinema is part of this new Island complex with free car parking within easy reach of the cinema is free for 3.5 hours, and it is a 6 minute walk from Rotherham College and University Centre Rotherham.

There are special screenings as at The Arc Cinema, inclusivity is at the heart of everything they do. Their Sensory Screenings are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities. These screenings, typically held on a regular monthly basis, offer a relaxed environment with adjusted sound and lighting, creating a calm and supportive atmosphere. Families and individuals are encouraged to feel at ease, allowing everyone to enjoy the magic of the movies together.

Mondays at The Arc Cinema are dedicated to subtitled screenings, providing accessibility and enjoyment for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Every Monday early-evening, they offer screenings with subtitles, allowing everyone to fully engage with the film’s dialogue and storyline. These screenings not only cater to those who are hearing-impaired but also welcome anyone who prefers or enjoys watching movies with subtitles. Join them for an immersive movie experience where everyone can follow the story effortlessly and enjoy the magic of cinema without any barriers.

They also have Parent and Baby Screenings at The Arc Cinema which offer a relaxed and baby-friendly environment for parents and caregivers. These regular, usually monthly, screenings are designed to allow parents to enjoy the latest movies while accommodating the needs of their little ones. With slightly dimmed lights and lower sound levels, parents can take care of their babies’ needs while still enjoying the big screen experience.

On top of all this, students get a discount on production of a valid ID card.

A New Travelodge

Across the way from the Arc Cinema, is the new Travelodge – with a new design – and within easy reach of Rotherham town centre, railway and bus stations.  There are lots of breakfast and menu options and offers too for non residents.

This is a great new addition to the town which had no large hotel centrally for students visiting our University Centre from far away or a place to stay when there is a late night event, exhibition or student performance to take in.

Food and Drinks

Residents can enjoy plenty of choices at breakfast and a delicious menu of evening meals in their on-site Bar Café. Along with great food, their Bar Café also serves a range of drinks and bar snacks, alcohol-free drinks too. They even have a choice of accessible rooms to travel more comfortable for every guest.

With the major improvement plans that are currently underway at the markets which will include; a modern and accessible central library, a new community hub, extensive public realm and improved links to the town centre, College and University Centre, it is exciting times in Rotherham and there is lots to look forward to and enjoy for both community members and students alike.

Next month in our ‘Rotherham is Wonderful’ section, we will explore the great – and little – eateries in Rotherham.