The curtain is about to rise on Scotland’s newest cinema, which has seen an almost bare room restored to a bygone era of cinematic opulence. The boutique, 48 seat Picturehouse at The Scotsman hotel in Edinburgh will capitalise on the growing demand for unique cinema experiences.

The Scotsman Picturehouse features ornate Edwardian cornice-work, wood panelling and luxurious bespoke red leather and velvet armchairs and sofas, each softly lit by table lamps. Opening to the public on Friday 9th August 2019, the Picturehouse will a screen a mixture of classic masterpieces, the latest releases, modern cult favourites and curated cultural content such as ballets and operas.

Film lovers will be able to combine their favourite movie with afternoon tea or enjoy specially paired movie menus at The Scotsman’s Grand Café. Edinburgh’s unique ‘vintage luxe’ cinema means the city will be able to take advantage of a growing trend for immersive cinema experiences, according to Pete Johnson from the Indy Cinema Group, “We have seen immersive cinema experiences such as the Secret Cinema in London and Tivoli cinema in Bath grow in popularity. This brings that trend to Scotland’s capital. They appeal to young professionals who want a more luxurious cinema experience and are prepared to pay a little extra for it. I’m sure it will prove a great place for corporate screenings as well as offering the public the chance to do something completely new and exciting.”

The Picturehouse cinema has been carefully constructed by a team of craftspeople as part of the multi-million pound refurbishment of The Scotsman hotel which was rescued by G1 group following liquidation in 2017. Plasterers and joiners spent 16 weeks creating the kind of decorative finishes which would have been seen in picturehouses during the last century, around the time of the building’s heyday when it was the home of The Scotsman newspaper. Whilst nodding to the past, the Picturehouse also features every mod con including USB ports and power sockets to charge up your phone or laptop while you relax, making it a spectacular venue for corporate screenings, weddings and events as well as for a special evening with your partner.

For a selection of screenings, special film packages have been created which include a meal in the Grand Cafe - once the home of the Advertising & Notices Dept. of the Scotsman Newspaper and now a stunning restaurant specialising in Scottish and seasonal produce. They include ‘Brunch and a Blockbuster’, ‘Afternoon Tea and a Matinee’ and dinner followed by a movie. Prices start at £19.95 for a film package.

Full schedule available www.scotsmanpicturehouse.co.uk

The Picturehouse, Scotsman Hotel, 20 North Bridge, Edinburgh.