London in summer is a treat. Long evenings, golden light, and that irresistible pull to get outside. However, here’s the age-old seasonal dilemma: we want to make the most of the sunshine and enjoy the kind of downtime that leaves us feeling truly recharged.
The solution? Outdoor cinemas.
These open-air screenings have become a staple of the London summer scene, turning film nights into magical moments. Whether you’re looking for free riverside screenings, rooftop cult classics, or even a floating film on the Thames, here’s your ultimate guide to the best outdoor cinemas in London this year.
Rooftop Film Club
These guys always manage to find the coolest spots in the city. Their rooftop theatre showings take place in some of London’s hippest neighbourhoods, including Shoreditch and Peckham. They cater to the hipster crowd, showcasing cult classics like The Labyrinth, Napoleon Dynamite, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. They’ll probably serve you a cocktail in a jam jar, too.
Movies on the River
The River Thames is foremost amongst the places in London you wouldn’t expect to find a cinema. Nonetheless, Time Out’s unique event, Movies on the River, is an excellent choice for spectacular views and great films. You’ll enjoy a peaceful cruise down the river just before the sun sets, after which you’ll be treated to a viewing of your favourite movies.
Film4 Summer Screen
Somerset House is one of the most stunning locations we can think of to hold a pop-up cinema. Not only is it a perfect venue, but you’ll also see some fantastic independent films that you won’t see anywhere else. Showing some UK premieres, Film4 brings new movie experiences to today’s Londoners.
Summer at the Southbank Centre
This lovely little outdoor cinema is the perfect way to catch fantastic musicals like Chicago, Moulin Rouge and Little Shop of Horrors right on the banks of the Thames. After the showing, take a look around some of the summer exhibitions happening at the Southbank Centre, including music, dance and fashion. It’s a vibrant place to be on a Friday evening.
British Summer Time’s Open House
If you checked out our post on the best summer festivals, you’ll know that BST is at the top of the list for hosting A-tier performing artists in the city. However, the organisers use the space between gigs by opening up the festival site for free movies and live shows. Use the street food vendors well and catch modern classics like Bohemian Rhapsody and Guardians of the Galaxy.
More outdoor cinemas around London
Free Outdoor Cinemas
- Canary Wharf Summer Screens: Free films and live sports in Canada Square Park, from May to September.
- Everyman on the Canal, King’s Cross: 100+ free screenings at Granary Square with colourful installations by Yinka Ilori.
- Summer by the River, London Bridge: Free Tuesday night movies at The Scoop amphitheatre, plus live music and food stalls.
- Lower Marsh Lates, Waterloo: Pedestrianised street cinema nights with sing-along favourites like Grease and Dirty Dancing.
- Merchant Square Summer Movie Nights, Paddington: Canal-side classics from Mamma Mia to The Princess Diaries.
- Barbican Outdoor Cinema: Ticketed but affordable, with artful picks like Dune (1984) and Fantastic Mr. Fox.
Ticketed & Special Venues
- Luna Cinema: Iconic backdrops like Kensington Palace and Hampton Court host summer screenings (£15.50+).
- Vision Cinema: Pop-up screenings across Greenwich, Hackney, and beyond, from family hits to comedies.
- Adventure Cinema: Set in stunning locations like Kew Gardens and Westminster Abbey, often with sing-along editions.
- Secret Cinema at Battersea Park: Fully immersive experiences (this year: Grease), blending theatre, music, and film.
London outdoor cinemas at a glance:
| Cinema | Location | Free / Ticketed | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rooftop Film Club | Shoreditch, Peckham, Stratford | Ticketed | Hip, city-view cool |
| Movies on the River | Thames | Ticketed | Romantic, unique |
| Film4 Summer Screen | Somerset House | Ticketed | Cinematic grandeur |
| Summer at the Southbank | Southbank Centre | Ticketed | Musical, cultural |
| BST Open House | Hyde Park | Free | Festival feel |
| Canary Wharf Summer Screens | Canary Wharf | Free | Big-city buzz |
| Everyman on the Canal | King’s Cross | Free | Family-friendly, artsy |
| Summer by the River | London Bridge City | Free | Riverside social |
| Lower Marsh Lates | Waterloo | Free | Lively, casual |
| Merchant Square Nights | Paddington | Free | Relaxed, canal-side |
| Barbican Outdoor Cinema | Barbican | Ticketed | Art-house cool |
| Luna Cinema | Landmarks | Ticketed | Iconic settings |
| Vision Cinema | Various | Ticketed | Pop-up variety |
| Adventure Cinema | Landmarks | Ticketed | Scenic, family-friendly |
| Secret Cinema | Battersea Park | Ticketed | Immersive theatre |
| Floating Film Festival | St Katharine Docks | Ticketed | Quirky, cosy |
For more exciting things going on in and around London, check out our London tours. You’ll find the very best ways to explore the capital.
