The people who created the Hackney Picturehouse definitely see the big picture.
Because this is a lot more than just a cinema.
It’s a pretty big, modern, glass-fronted building in the middle of Mare Street – opposite Hackney Empire. There are four screens in total, showing everything from big blockbusters to smaller arthouse pieces; foreign language films; documentaries; and live arts broadcasts. Head down there on a Sunday, and you can catch a screening of a classic film for their Vintage Sundays (Vertigo, Double Indemnity, etc.). And then there are the regular Screen Arts showings, streaming productions from the RSC, the Met Opera, the National Theatre, and the Bolshoi Ballet live. You can even see art exhibitions on screen, from an immersive Frida Kahlo show, to a portrait of Cezanne’s life and works.
Then there’s the ground floor, where you’ll find a relaxed, all-day restaurant and bar, ideal for freelancers, or bite to eat – burgers, pizza, sandwiches, and salads – before or after the film. And if you fancy taking a pint into the screen, this is where you can grab one.
The real USP, however, is on the top floor. This is where they’ve installed Hackney Attic – a multi-purpose arts space offering up live music, poetry readings, sketch nights, comedy, DJ parties, film quizzes and a lot more. It has beautiful arched windows looking out over Hackney Town Hall, and features its own self-contained bar & stage.
Pop in next time you want to see a film, or like, literally anything.
NOTE: Hackney Picturehouse is open now. You can find out more, and book tickets at their website right HERE.
Hackney Picturehouse | 270 Mare Street, E8 1HE
Making an evening of it? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in East London