The art deco style Carlton Cinema in Cosham was opened in 1934. The ownership of the cinema changed hands many times over the years, leading to it being renamed under aliases such as Virgin, ABC, and Cannon. It was closed in January of 2003 before it was reopened 25 days later under the original name, the Carlton. In 2007 it brought down the curtains for good, and it has been in a state of decay ever since.
The Blue Lagoon was the function room for the Hilsea Lido, an art deco style outdoor swimming pool. The Lido opened in 1935, but was closed in 2006. Recently a group of local residents formed a project to renovate the Lido, and there are plans to reopen it next year.
Southsea’s victorian-era seafront, a once popular destination for holiday makers, has declined rapidly in recent years. Restoration has begun, but many of its attractions remain tatty and run-down.
The Queen’s Hotel was originally built in 1861, but after being ravaged by a fire, was rebuilt in 1903, complete with its Edwardian Baroque style that stands today. It is one of the few remaining buildings in the city features this grandiose style.