Scotsman Hotel launches boutique cinema to capitalise on growing demand for ‘luxury’ small screen experience

One of Edinburgh’s most iconic hotels has opened a boutique cinema to capitalise on the growing demand for traditional movie-going experiences.

The Scotsman Hotel on North Bridge Street has restored an ‘almost bare room’ to an opulent cinema reminiscent of a bygone era.

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 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,” he said. “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.

Mike Wiles, Operations Manager from the Cinema Division of G1, said: “The Scotsman Picturehouse will appeal to people who want more from a cinema
experience. Whether you want to combine a movie with brunch or afternoon tea, bring your clients to a bespoke corporate screening or enjoy the best seats in the house at an opera, this beautiful venue is offers something stylish and completely different.

“Keep an eye on our social media channels because there are opportunities to win tickets to the Picturehouse during its opening weeks.”

Pete Johnson added: “The cinema industry has evolved a lot and audiences are now demanding more. The idea of boutique cinemas is flying at the moment with small, unique cinemas proving incredibly popular around the UK. It’s great that the city can now tap into this popular trend.”

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.

Visit www.scotsmanpicturehouse.co.uk

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