6 Best Outdoor Cinemas in London

London, a city that pulsates with history, culture, and entertainment, offers an enchanting array of experiences. Among the many ways to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this metropolis, outdoor cinemas stand out as a truly magical experience. Picture yourself under a starlit sky, surrounded by lush greenery or iconic city landmarks, as you settle into a comfy chair, awaiting the start of a captivating film.

Some things are definitely better outdoor, cinemas are one of them. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a hopeless romantic, or simply seeking a unique way to enjoy a movie, these outdoor cinemas are sure to leave an indelible mark on your London adventure. From iconic parks, by the canal to hidden gems nestled in unexpected corners of the city, each venue offers its own distinct charm and ambiance. Here are some of the best outdoor cinemas in London that are worth a visit. 

 

1Everyman’s Screen on the Canal

Everyman’s Screen on the Canal london

Where: Kings Cross

Jaguar, is making a return to the capital this summer, adding to one of London’s hottest event schedules at the much-loved shopping and dining destination.  Everyman’s free, annual outdoor film and TV festival will see a jam-packed summer programme of entertainment on the iconic Canal Side Steps on the banks of the Regent’s Canal. Everyman Screen on the Canal will take place from 22 June to 6 August, giving you the chance to enjoy a whole host of films and screenings – all while reclining on bean bags on the grass steps and fully embracing the Great British summer. 

An idyllic setting for a romantic date night, a family day out or a fun evening with friends, films, and screenings will run throughout the day and every evening. There will be something for every film and TV enthusiast to enjoy, with the line-up including Elvis, Matilda, Top Gun: Maverick, Mamma Mia and Casablanca, as well as screenings of the Wimbledon Tennis Championship. Of course, the Everyman experience wouldn’t be complete without delicious food and drink. You will be able to order from Everyman’s menu, which includes its famous house and vegan burgers, as well as a selection of wine and summer cocktails for the ultimate al fresco movie night. Read more here.

 

Learn More: Kingscross.co.uk

 

 

2The Luna Cinema

outdoor cinemas in London Luna Cinema

Where: Various locations across London

Luna Cinema is known for their incredible settings from castles, cathedrals to parks, palaces, and even a rubber dinghy in a lido. This outdoor cinema has screenings all over the UK with a majority of them based in London. What makes Luna Cinema amazing is their location, you are guaranteed to have an unbelievable backdrop. Screenings in London for this summer include One New Change with a view of the iconic St. Pauls Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, Victoria Embankment Garden and many more. You can make the most of your outdoor cinema experience with their delicious picnic hamper and a full bar on site.

 

Learn More: Thelunacinema.com

 

 

 

3Rooftop Film Club

outdoor cinemas in London

Where:  Stratford and Peckham

Nothing can beat watching a film outdoors, with the impressive London skyline and sunset in the background. Rooftop Film club offers just that – outdoor cinema on a rooftop with the iconic backdrop of the city. They have cool quirky locations across London with screenings at Roof East, and Peckham’s Bussey Building. Doors open early before the screening, so you can enjoy all the elements of the experience during the most beautiful times – golden hour, sunset and dusk.

The screenings now take place twice a day on weekdays and three times on a Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holiday.  The late screening begins after the sun goes down, just as the stars are coming out, and the city lights are starting to twinkle. The films vary from cult classics to brand-new releases. Rooftop Film club offers comfy deckchairs so lean back, get comfy and breathe in those city views under the stars. You also get your own personal headphones, so you can live in those memorable cinematic moments, and not get disturbed by the outside world. 

 

Learn More: Rooftopfilmclub.com

 

 

Related: Outdoor pools in London

 

 

4Popup Screens

outdoor cinemas in London Popup Screens

Where: Various locations across London

Pop up outdoor cinemas are one of the best things about summer in the city. Pop-up screens are bringing the big screens to open leafy parts of London this summer, popping up all around London from locations such as Hammersmith, Fulham, Crystal Palace and more. Screening films like 10 things I hate about you, Dirty Dancing, Romeo and Juliet, Ghostbusters, Top Gun and many more. Simply pack something to sit on, a blanket for the chilly evenings, and enjoy a film under the stars. 

 

Learn More: Popupscreens.co.uk

 

 

 

5Backyard Cinema

outdoors cinema backyard cinema

Where: Borough

Experience cinema like you have never seen it before. What started as friends watching films projected on a bedsheet in their backyard, now Backyard Cinema has grown to be one of the leading alternative cinema experiences in the UK. Backyard Cinema offers an immersive cinema experience that is more than simply the movies, making it ideal for movie buffs and adventure seekers.

This outdoor cinema in London is not your usual cinema, here you will be immersed in a cinematic journey with themed screenings. Expect to be surrounded by actors and live music, each screening is truly a unique evening out. Big comfy bean bag loungers are provided. 

 

Learn More: Backyardcinema.co.uk

 

 

6Marylebone Summer Film Night

Marylebone Summer Film Night

Location: Marylebone

Marylebone Summer Festival returns on Saturday 10th June and Sunday 11th June, with an outstanding weekend line-up featuring pop up outdoor film screenings, live music performances, a dog show, alfresco bars, food and gift stalls, shopping, alfresco dining and more.

In the tranquil surroundings of the open gardens, there will be pre-film activities to enjoy including free table tennis, live music, and a festival pop-up bar in partnership with 108 Brasserie at The Marylebone Hotel. The bar will serve a range of quality drinks and a special themed cocktail named ‘Hound Dog’ for VIP cinema ticket holders to raise a glass to the King of Rock & Roll.

 

Learn More: Backyardcinema.co.uk