For first-time visitors to Arrowtown, the most challenging part of your holiday can be finding what to do. Even in such a quaint town, the options are endless. Our friendly staff at Arrowtown House are here to help. After all, locals know best.
We’ve designed the perfect night out filled with movies, cheeseboards, drinks and maybe even some live entertainment. All a short 4-minute walk from your accommodation. What more could you want?
The destination: 18 Buckingham Street.
The venues: Dorothy Browns Cinema and Blue Door Bar.
Start your night right, at Dorothy Browns cinema, bookshop, and bar. It’s not often you find a place that can do all three; luxury cinema, boutique bookstore and extensive bar. But trust us when we say, Dorothy Brown can.
This cinema is not your usual auditorium-style dark room, with uncomfortable tiered seating and lousy air conditioning. Instead, it’s a lavish lounge setting, with sofa chairs, infinite legroom, cosy blankets, and a fully licensed bar right next door. Picture yourself watching your favourite blockbuster movie, nestled on the couch, wine glass in hand and a cheeseboard resting beside you. Now that, is the Dorothy Brown experience.
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, you’re blessed with an intermission. Why these were ever removed is a total mystery. A short intermission is a perfect time to top up your glass, use the restroom and order more movie snacks. The bar is stocked with an impressive selection of local wines, craft beers and spirits, that pair nicely with delicious cheeseboard platters, mixed olive bowls, Patagonia chocolates and pure NZ ice creams.
The warm and comforting atmosphere and full bellies will either put you straight to sleep or ready to go for your next adventure, just down the alleyway.
This next stop is arguably Arrowtown’s best-kept secret. From the outside, a raggedy blue door that’s nothing special. From the inside, a Speakeasy-style cocktail bar, warmly lit by a fire and candlelight. Step through the Blue Door and step back in time.
This historic bar has come a long way from being an old storage unit to the town’s favourite local hideaway. The dim lighting, leather chairs and open wood fire create an authentic ambience that is hard not to love. And speaking of things that are hard not to love, why not try one of Blue Doors’ signature cocktails? You can thank us later.
Not only does the Blue Door offer premium drinks and outstanding service at the bar, there’s also a chance for live entertainment. It’s the ideal place to be for live music performances, DJ sets and open mic nights. Check out the Blue Doors Facebook page before your visit and find an event that suits you.
Buckingham Street is full of restaurants and bars, all equally unique. So don’t let this itinerary hold you back from exploring new hidden gems around town. We can’t wait to hear all about your evening adventures at the breakfast table the following morning.
Want more insider tips? Say hello!