Film buffs are in for a treat at New Lanark World Heritage Site as it announces its newly licensed cinema – positioning it as a cornerstone for celebrating Scottish movies and storytelling.
Housed within the historic Robert Owen School for Children, the 123-seat cinema is unique, being the only one of its kind located within a World Heritage Site in Scotland.
The venue also features an exhibition space, allowing people to delve deeper into the stories and history behind the films being showcased.
New Lanark FilmTheatre’s inaugural screening will be the iconic blockbuster Top Gun on February 15 as a special Valentine’s Date Night.
Couples and cinema enthusiasts alike will have their breath taken away as they enjoy this classic film in a setting rich with history and charm.
The launch also marks the beginning of an exciting new tradition with the first-ever New Lanark Film Festival, running from March 24-28.
The festival, organised in partnership with the prestigious Bill Douglas Cinema Museum in Exeter, will highlight the legacy of acclaimed Scottish director Bill Douglas and his contributions to preserving cinematic history.
Curated in collaboration with Dr Phil Wickham, the festival will feature a selection of Douglas’ works, including never-before-seen short films from the 1960s, providing an intimate glimpse into the filmmaker’s early creative journey.
This partnership highlights the shared mission of preserving film history in a venue that celebrates both heritage and innovation.
Harvey John Perrie, marketing and events officer at New Lanark, said: “The New Lanark Film Theatre has so much potential and is an exciting new asset to our World Heritage Site.
“New Lanark is a place full of stories from its long history – and now we have a new way to tell stories through the medium of cinema.
“The Film Festival is something we envision bringing the whole community together, whether you’re a filmmaker, a film lover, or someone wanting to try out something new – our unique location means that there is something for everyone.
“We have been overwhelmed by the submissions and interest we have had for our first Film Festival, and we are very excited to share our packed programme soon.”
The New Lanark Film Theatre is a testament to the site’s mission to honour history while embracing contemporary cultural experiences.
By partnering with local institutions and film charities, New Lanark aims to create a space that preserves and celebrates important stories, transforming the cinema into a gateway for learning and inspiration.
Tickets for the Valentine’s Day screening of Top Gun are now available on the New Lanark website.
Further details about the New Lanark Film Festival line up and ticketing will be announced soon; visit here for more information.
*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.