This September, Southsea Community Cinema & Arts Centre is proud to be part of Holmes Fest 2025, the 10-day celebration of Arthur Conan Doyle’s world-famous detective, created right here in Portsmouth.
As part of the festival, we’ll be hosting events that bring Conan Doyle’s imagination to life on the big screen — from family-friendly creative workshops to classic film screenings.
One of the major highlights will be our free children’s art workshop, inspired by Conan Doyle’s The Lost World. Young explorers can get hands-on making dinosaur eggs and skulls, before joining us for a free screening of the 1925 silent film adaptation of The Lost World — a cinematic landmark that inspired generations of adventure stories, including Jurassic Park.
We’ll also be rounding off Holmes Fest in style with a special screening of the 1939 classic The Hound of the Baskervilles, starring Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes. It’s the perfect way to close 10 days of mystery, fun, and celebration.
Aysegul Epengin, Manager of Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre, said:
“We are delighted to be part of Holmes Fest this year. Our Arts Centre is growing, and the range of activities we offer is expanding all the time. For the festival, we’re excited to share two wonderful films connected to Conan Doyle’s legacy, and we strongly recommend booking online in advance to secure your place.”
Festival organiser Matt Wingett said:
“This year’s programme is the biggest yet — with theatre, walks, talks, live shows, and film. We’re thrilled to have Southsea Cinema involved, especially as Conan Doyle himself has such strong ties to the city. It’s going to be a wonderful mix of history, creativity and entertainment.”
Holmes Fest runs from 19–28 September 2025 across Portsmouth, with events at Groundlings Theatre, Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre, and other venues.
📍 Southsea Cinema Events at Holmes Fest 2025:
- Lost World Children’s Workshop & Film Screening – Free event
- The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939) Closing Night Screening
For full programme details and tickets for other events, visit: www.lifeisamazing.co.uk.