culture
Maltings Cinema Relocates to Barracks; 21st Film Festival Approaches
From the temporarily housed Maltings Cinema at Berwick Barracks to the upcoming 21st Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival, here’s your local guide to cultural film experiences in Berwick.
How we reported this
Berwick’s film scene is thriving, anchored by the Maltings Cinema at Berwick Barracks (TD15 1DF), a 96-seat venue that opened in October 2024 in the historic Barracks Mob Store. This temporary cinema operates while the main Maltings site on Eastern Lane undergoes redevelopment, which is expected to continue until 2028. The venue screens the latest film releases, special screenings, and event broadcasts, opening its doors 45 minutes before each show.
Why This Matters Now
With the main Maltings site under redevelopment, the temporary cinema at the Barracks ensures Berwick residents and visitors don’t miss out on the big-screen experience. The venue’s historic setting adds a unique cultural layer, while the upcoming Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival (BFMAF) highlights the town’s commitment to independent and artistic cinema. The festival, now in its 21st edition, runs March 20-22, 2026, and will feature over 50 films alongside a new year-round venue at 22 Bridge Street.
Local Cultural Experiences
Maltings Cinema at Berwick Barracks
The Maltings Cinema is the go-to spot for current releases and special event broadcasts. Located at Berwick Barracks (TD15 1DF) in the Mob Store-a building with military heritage-it offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Doors open 45 minutes before each screening, giving you time to settle in. Tickets and showtimes are available via The Maltings website or box office.
Berwick Film Society Screenings
For film enthusiasts seeking curated programming, the Berwick Film Society holds screenings from January to May and September to November on specific Wednesdays at the Maltings Cinema. These screenings are a great way to see classic, independent, or foreign films in a community setting. Tickets can be booked through The Maltings website or box office, with details on specific dates available online.
21st Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival (BFMAF)
Mark your calendar for March 20-22, 2026, when the 21st BFMAF takes over Berwick with over 50 films. The festival will also launch a new year-round venue at 22 Bridge Street, expanding its cultural footprint beyond the annual event. This is a key moment for film lovers in the region, offering access to contemporary media arts alongside traditional screenings.
North Berwick Cinema (Separate Location)
While not in Berwick proper, North Berwick hosts NBMovies community cinema at North Berwick Community Centre on the 3rd Friday of every month. Tickets are affordable: £3 for under 18s and £6 for adults. It’s a good option for those willing to travel for a community screening experience.
Practical Advice for Cinema-Goers
For Berwick’s cinema scene, planning ahead is key. Check The Maltings website for showtimes and film listings at the Barracks venue. If you’re into film society fare, the Berwick Film Society’s seasonal schedule runs from January to May and September to November, with Wednesdays being your catch day. And for the festival, keep an eye on BFMAF’s website for the full programme closer to March 2026. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Berwick’s film options offer a mix of mainstream and cultural cinema that’s easy to access and enjoy.