Congratulations to Campbeltown Picture House which has been voted one of six “hidden gems” from across Scotland after a nationwide search.
One of the first purpose-built cinemas in Scotland, Campbeltown Picture House has provided the town with a centre of entertainment for the past 100 years. From its origins in the silent movie days in 1913, through to the modern day and digital technologies, the Picture House has provided an invaluable service to Campbeltown and Kintyre cinemagoers. Its unique Glasgow School Art Nouveau design has been restored with new contemporary facilities added, including a second auditorium and a new café bar, so that it can operate as a sustainable community-based business.
A cultural hub for Kintyre, this much-loved building, which is due to reopen this Autumn, will then be able to screen films and live relayed performances of theatre, opera and music, and stage small scale drama, music and comedy.
The public vote was co-ordinated by Dig It! 2017, a year-long celebration of Scottish archaeology. They are working with partners across the country to celebrate Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and to unearth six equally extraordinary Hidden Gems. "Unlike the World Heritage Sites, you won’t find these places featured in as many travel guides, postcards or Instagram feeds. They might be a little bit quieter, harder to find and rougher around the edges. You’ll have to step off the beaten track see some of them for your own eyes; it’s all part of the experience. Your reward is a piece of the past will surprise, delight and inspire you."