Arts Picturehouse, Cambridge Travel Guide

A Storied Venue with Art Deco Heritage

Arts Picturehouse occupies the upper floors of a large square building on St Andrew's Street, Cambridge, originally opened as the Regal Cinema in 1937. Over the decades, it has transformed from a grand single-screen venue with nearly 1,900 seats into a modern three-screen cinema while retaining elements of its art deco style. The renovation preserved the building’s historic charm, with the original stalls area now repurposed as The Regal pub, reputedly one of the largest pubs in the UK. This blend of cinema and social space enriches the cultural fabric of central Cambridge.

A Curated Film Selection and Festival Hub

The cinema is renowned for its eclectic programming, offering a mix of mainstream hits, independent films, world cinema, and documentaries. It serves as the home of the Cambridge Film Festival, held each summer, which brings premieres, special screenings, and filmmaker events to the city. This focus on diverse cinematic experiences makes Arts Picturehouse a cultural hub for film enthusiasts seeking more than just blockbuster fare.

Comfort and Atmosphere for Every Visitor

Inside, the cinema provides a cosy yet spacious environment with comfortable seating and good sound quality. The three screens vary in size, with the largest boasting THX certification for premium audio-visual experience. The venue’s relaxed ambiance is enhanced by a well-stocked café-bar offering a range of drinks including local ales, wines, and coffee, as well as light food options. Patrons appreciate the ability to take drinks into the screening rooms, fostering a casual and adult-friendly atmosphere.

Community and Accessibility

Arts Picturehouse places importance on accessibility, featuring lifts and facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Its central city location means there is no dedicated parking, but it is well-served by public transport and is within walking distance of Cambridge’s main attractions. The cinema also hosts private screenings and corporate events, making it a versatile venue for various community and cultural activities.

A Unique Blend of Cinema and Social Life

Sharing its building with The Regal pub downstairs, Arts Picturehouse offers a unique combination of film and social experiences. Visitors often enjoy a drink before or after screenings, benefiting from the pub’s extensive selection and more affordable prices compared to the cinema bar. This synergy between cinema and pub life adds to the venue’s charm and appeal as a local gathering place.

Continued Legacy in Cambridge’s Cultural Scene

Since reopening as Arts Picturehouse in 1999, the cinema has become a cherished part of Cambridge’s cultural landscape. Its dedication to independent film, community engagement, and historic preservation ensures it remains a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether attending the film festival, catching a new release, or simply enjoying the café-bar, Arts Picturehouse offers a distinctive and memorable cinema experience.