With the summer seasons approaching, and the temperature dropping in solidarity, we’re sure you’re eager to get out and enjoy it. Each year, a wide range of London’s most popular outdoor cinemas reopen in celebration, and 2024 is no different. To plan your visit, take a look through our picks for the best open-air screens, soon to be showing your favourite films from classics to new releases.
The Best Open-Air Cinemas In London
Words by
Urmi Pandit
8th May 2024
For any film lovers in London looking to enjoy the silver screen in the sun, SPHERE has you covered. From a free screening floating on the water to a panoramic rooftop performance, there's a perfect movie night for everyone this summer, with our guide to the best open-air cinemas in the city.
Adventure Cinema, Ealing
Adventure Cinema holds screenings across the UK
Set before the backdrop of the beautiful 18th Century Natural Trust mansion, Osterley Park and House, one of West London’s most picturesque natural spaces, is the annual Adventure Cinema events. Bring the family to experience the perfect combination of history and the world of cinema throughout August.
Showings to come include rom-coms, musicals and 80's classics, so there’s certainly something for everyone. Pre-booked tickets range from £9.50 for guests under 12 and £15.50 for adults, and all are encouraged to bring their own blanket or camping chair for the best experience.
Open from 8th to 11th August, see Adventure Cinema's full programme here.
Summer Screens, Canary Wharf
The Wimbledon Championships 2023 showing at Summer Screens
Head over to Canada Square Park in Canary Wharf from 30th May to 8th September for the annual free Summer Screens season.
Known for showing the most exciting sporting championships of the year, from F1 to Ascot to Wimbledon, visiting this open-air venue is a must. This year’s Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games are, of course, scheduled for later in July and August. In the meantime, choose from their mid-week cult classic and weekend family favourites, to enjoy a picnic with a view.
See the full programme here, to be confirmed.
Everyman Screen On The Canal, King's Cross
Each year, Everyman’s popular Screen On The Canal returns with another summer of family-friendly screenings. Even better – the showings are free to attend, so simply turn up on the day and secure the comfiest spot in the sun.
Join from June to August on the steps of Granary Square in King’s Cross, for range of films you're sure to enjoy.
Keep an eye out for the updated programme here.
Everyman In The Garden At The Grove, Watford
Enjoy a luxury overnight stay at The Grove with an outdoor cinema pop-up
Luxury hotel, golf resort and spa, The Grove, is also partnering with Everyman and Discovery for guests to enjoy a new outdoor cinema pop-up during their stay. From 18th July to 8th September, the immersive experience will be held in the enchanting Walled Garden, amid 300 acres of the Hertfordshire countryside and the venue’s luxurious suites.
Visitors are invited to take in a range of both new and older releases, after enjoying their award-winning spa, quality restaurant dining, or experiential packages curated by Discovery. From films to hot air balloons, this one is a must.
You can head there directly from Euston station, with an overnight stay in a West Wing Classic Room starting from £420. Find the full programme here.
Barbican Outdoor Cinema, Barbican
Looking for an escape from the city? Look no further than the Barbican Outdoor Cinema, where visitors can enjoy the hustle and bustle of London from a distance, illuminated by the outdoor cinema in Sculpture Court. From this year's most highly-anticipated new releases, to internationally awarded films, to famous classics across a range of genres, the Barbican is the place to be this summer.
Adult tickets range from £18, including a free Campari Spritz or a non-alcoholic Crodino Aperitif through the venue’s partnership with ScreenTalks. For mid-show snacks, enjoy fresh food from the Barbican’s range of vendors – Copper Rattle offering gourmet hot dogs, Toum & Tahini with Middle Eastern bites, and Kichiya Pastries for lighter, sweeter Japanese desserts.
Look out for 2024's details here.
Merchant Square Big Screen, Paddington
Outdoor screening at Paddington's Merchant Square Big Screen
With a free open-air film screening right by the canal under the stars, there’s little left to wish for. Merchant Square Movies offers both reclined deckchairs and plenty of spaces for picnic blankets.
Kicking off on 15th May, your evening of entertainment can be paired with a range of authentic Mexican street food, refreshing drinks and essential popcorn on offer at the venue.
Head to the venue's website to find out more.
Rooftop Film Club, Stratford & Peckham
The Rooftop Film Club has two venues, each with an equally memorable experience to offer. Visitors can take in the big screen through personal wireless headphones to ensure noise-cancelling viewing. Tickets start from £16.95, with the option of upgrading to packages including popcorn and prosecco to share.
The Rooftop Film Club at Roof East, Stratford
Over in Stratford, Roof East hosts a panoramic view behind the screen of the city’s skyline, bustling street food stalls to keep you full, and as many arcade-style games as you could wish for while you wait for your film.
The Rooftop Film Club at Peckham's Bussey Building
On top of Peckham’s Bussey Building is an equally stocked bar serving a range of cocktails and beers, plus adjustable deck chairs for you to truly sit back and relax.
See the full programme here.
