Mac Arts
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Mac Arts
MacArts is run by the Duncan MacKinnon Music and Arts Trust - a charitable organisation inspired by the visionary spirit of Dunc MacKinnon, a prominent Borders promoter who brought high profile acts to the Scottish Borders in the 1960s. We can't tell you how good it is to be back- we have missed you!

But we do have to tell you that 'back' is going to be a wee bit different, for now. As a responsible venue / employer, we will be following SBC and Scottish Government guidance and recommendations to ensure all our gigs and events run smoothly and safely. At a majority of our gigs, tickets will be available to purchase on the door.
Services
Mac Arts is run by the Duncan Mackinnon Music and Arts Trust - a charitable organisation inspired by the visionary spirit of Dunc Mackinnon, a prominent Borders promoter who brought high profile acts to the Scottish Borders in the 1960s. Whilst Mac Arts is a work in progress, the Trust has already made sufficient improvements to ensure the building currently offers a viable venue that is fully functional and open for business.
Limited edition MacArts live T-shirts. Only 70 of these heavyweight "When words fail music speaks" T-shirts have been produced so snap them up. All proceeds will help us keep the lights on until we can get back to live performance. We would like to thank Jim Jones and the Righteous Mind and photographer Patrick Rafferty for permission to use the image.
MacArts is an adaptable space which can be hired at very reasonable rates for music, theatre, fashion shows, classes, workshops, meetings, private parties, receptions, photo-shoots, conferences, corporate events and more. There is a bar available in both rooms and a cafe in the rear hall.

Whatever you have in mind, we will be happy to discuss your requirements - including the layout of tables and chairs, provision of sound and lighting equipment, projector, screen, smart screen, technical advice, arrangements for catering, and any other support you require.If you would like more information about hiring the venue and its facilities, and the costs involved, please contact Kate or Chris by phone or email:.
The Trust is passionate about MacArts and is determined to see the project succeed. We have achieved much in getting this far, but a project of this scale requires considerable additional support. The MacArts project team are working hard to secure the major funding necessary to carry out the renovation work required to create and develop this vibrant community and arts hub for Galashiels and the central Borders.
Ramps Mac Arts is fully ramped throughout and entry to the building is to the left of the main door. We would like to make the access to the stage ramped as well but that's a bit more complicated. Toilets Mac Arts has a single accessible toilet. Viewing Platform For standing events we have a seated viewing platform for anyone that can't stand for too long.
Reviews (12)
William Winsborough
William Winsborough
Dec 05, 2021
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Many thanks for having us at the MacArts tonight. We really enjoyed playing there.
And huge thank you to the wonderful staff that couldn’t do more for us. You’re all awesome!!!!
Willie (bassist - The Polis)
😃👍
Catriona Hamilton
Catriona Hamilton
Oct 15, 2021
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Beautiful venue (converted old church) Friendly staff.
Tremendous acoustics for live music.
Neal Wade
Neal Wade
Oct 12, 2021
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Space for the Town's Band to rehearse appropriately distanced in the interim before normal life resumes (assuming it does) - since 1834, two world wars and a pandemic, but the band plays on ...
Daniel D.
Daniel D.
Oct 11, 2021
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Went to macarts tonight to see Wrest. Very friendly staff, lovely venue (old church) and very intimate.
Really enjoyed my night here and would absolutely return again. Thanks guys!
Roy Cook
Roy Cook
Sep 29, 2021
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Fantastic venue and staff make it a great experience to see and hear live performances by renowned and local artists
David Finnie
David Finnie
Sep 13, 2021
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Brilliant experience but staff have to make sure people are using the face masks before entering the building.
Ginny O'Neill
Ginny O'Neill
Aug 30, 2021
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What a wonderful evening, venue gorgeous!!!! A real escape from the norm!..band fantastic, and the lighting effects...but the absaloute winner was the staff. .I went to the concert with a lady who can get anxious..Kate (Macarts) ensured we had seats, drinks, could leave for fresh air ect...
This made for a first gig a magical and enjoyable experience...and want to do again and again!! Thankyou all!!
.
Graham Martin
Graham Martin
Jul 01, 2020
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Great music venue in former church. People and staff were so friendly, there was no pushing or jostling, as I'm used to in normal gigs back in Yorkshire. And there weren't massive queues at the bar, which I'm not sure if that was down to being cash only or just the norm. Had a fantastic night out and hope to visit again soon.
Allen Bell
Allen Bell
Mar 15, 2020
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Brilliant venue and the staff could not have been more welcoming! Played there last night with Maiden Scotland and loved every minute. Will absolutely be back!
Dunc Stark
Dunc Stark
Mar 01, 2020
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Attended a live music event, at which the staff were all lovely, the gig was excellent and the security were very polite! All in all an excellent venue for live music.
Scott Ramsay
Scott Ramsay
Feb 01, 2020
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Great venue & great Honeyblood gig. Sound was amazing & such a friendly place. We will be back. Thank you
Christopher Elder
Christopher Elder
Nov 28, 2019
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A wonderful local venue for anyone who wants to see various acts and performances. I was there for the W3L Wrestling show, and the atmosphere was fantastic.