Because there’s something about watching a movie under the stars.
From rooftop screenings with a cocktail in hand to community film nights in leafy squares, London’s open-air cinema scene is as eclectic as the city itself. And while the 2025 line-up might be winding down, the capital still knows how to deliver silver screen magic in the open air.
Whether you’re soaking up the last of summer or planning your September stay, there’s something unforgettable about watching your favourite film with the city lights twinkling overhead.
If you’re staying at The Cumberland Hotel, you’ve already nailed the location. A short stroll from Hyde Park London, Marble Arch, and with easy Tube links to the city’s coolest screening spots.
This is your guide to the coolest outdoor cinemas in the capital… with a few hidden gems, some big names, and a couple of spots to bookmark for next summer.
Outdoor Cinemas in London This Summer
We’ve rounded up this year’s officially confirmed events. These are all worth the detour and don’t worry if you’ve missed them – they host great events every year! From riverside screens to open squares, these spots offer everything from cult classics to community cinema.
-
Canary Wharf Summer Screens
Where: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf
Running from 29th May through to September, these free screenings bring blockbusters, family favourites, and even gaming competitions to the big screen in the heart of Canary Wharf.
Whether you’re watching Barbie or Back to the Future, this central green space transforms into a buzzy city cinema (all without the ticket price).
Bring your own blanket and snacks or grab something nearby and check out what’s on
Distance from The Cumberland Hotel: 30–35 mins via Tube (Central Line to Bank, then DLR to Canary Wharf).
-
Rooftop Film Club – Peckham & Stratford
Where: Bussey Building, Peckham / Roof East, Stratford
If the vibe you’re after is rooftop, city skyline, beanbag and cocktail, then The Rooftop Film Club has you sorted. Think deckchairs, wireless headphones, themed evenings, and iconic views. It’s a regular fixture on every “cool things to do in London” list for a reason.
This year’s line-up includes The Devil Wears Prada, Get Out, Poor Things, Back to the Future, Mean Girls, and more.
Distance from The Cumberland: 35–40 mins via Tube and Overground (Central Line to Oxford Circus, Victoria Line to Victoria, then Overground to Peckham Rye).
-
Indiana Jones – Earl’s Court Square Gardens
Where: Earl’s Court, SW5
On Saturday 14th September, this one-off screening of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade brings classic cinema to a charming neighbourhood garden square.
Hosted by Earl’s Court Community Trust, bring your own picnic and blanket (chairs allowed at the back) for a unique atmosphere beneath fairy-lit trees.
Seen Indiana on the big screen? Try it under the stars, Book your ticket here
Distance from The Cumberland Hotel: 20–25 mins via Tube (Central Line to Notting Hill Gate, switch to District Line to Earl’s Court)
-
Community Cinema Screening – The Square, Islington
Where: The Arc Centre, Islington
Prefer indie cinema? Don’t miss this community-led screening of The Square, part of a series promoting global arthouse film in London’s local venues.
Expect a warm welcome, meaningful post-film conversation. No fuss. No inflated priced. Just people who love film. Reserve your spot on Eventbrite
Distance from The Cumberland Hotel: 20–25 mins via Tube (Central Line to Holborn, Piccadilly Line to King’s Cross, then walk or short bus to The Arc).
-
Shakespeare’s Globe – Open-Air Theatre Magic
Where: Bankside, Southwark
Okay, it’s not technically a cinema, but if you are after a cultural night under the stars, you wont do better than the open – air stage of Shakespeare’s Globe. Performances with all the drama, atmosphere, and history you could hope for. And let’s be honest, it’s a pretty unforgettable night out.
2025’s summer season includes A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello, and The Comedy of Errors.
Top tip: Standing tickets are only £5 and put you right in the heart of the action.
Check out their website to discover what’s on .
Distance from The Cumberland Hotel: 20–25 mins via Tube + short walk (Central Line to St. Paul’s, walk across Millennium Bridge).
Outdoor Cinema in London 2026
Some big names from London’s outdoor cinema scene have unfortunately packed away their chairs and have escaped the cooling nights.
But if you but if you’re planning for next year’s London holiday, keep these on your radar:
- Luna Cinema – known for screenings at Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace
- Pop-Up Screens – flexible, family-friendly films in Fulham, Greenwich and more
- Everyman Screen on the Canal – a cult classic pop-up in King’s Cross
- Vauxhall Summer Screens – free movies in Pleasure Gardens with food trucks and DJs
- Barbican Outdoor Cinema – arty screenings in a brutalist courtyard setting
Follow local guides like Time Out and Londonist for up-to-date listings next summer.
Why Outdoor Cinemas Are the Best Way to End Summer
Here at The Cumberland Hotel, we love London in the summer.
There’s something in the air with rooftop bars buzzing, parks packed with picnics, and cinema under the stars.
Swapping a dark theatre for skyline views and crisp September evenings is our kind of movie night. All you need is a blanket, good company, and maybe a post-show nightcap nearby…
If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer, why not explore a few more ways to savour the season? We’ve got plenty more blogs to inspire you.
Some of our top ideas include:
Savouring a cocktail and watch the city skyline sparkle. London is well known for its rooftop bars, you can read more about our favourites here: The Best Rooftop Bars in London.
Looking for something to do in the day, not yet ready to let go on the sunshine? Picnics are a great way to enjoy the Summer (and they are cheap too!), we rounded up some go to spots here: The Best Picnic Spots in London
Of course, you cannot come for a London holiday without respecting its musical heritage. Just like The Cumberland Hotel, London has music coursing through its veins. Why not follow the beat and read out blog on Where to Find Music Artists in London.
Don’t worry parents, we have not forgotten about you! It can be hard to keep the kids entertained in the summer holidays, which is why we put together a quick Top 5 Activities in London for Kids blog.
FAQs: Outdoor Cinemas in London
Q: Can I bring my own food and drink?
Most community or free events (like Earls Court and Canary Wharf) allow picnics. Rooftop Film Club offers food and drink on site.
Q: What happens if it rains?
Events like Rooftop Film Club usually go ahead with ponchos or blankets, but it is always worth checking venue T&Cs.
Book Your Summer Stay at The Cumberland
Looking for a London Hotel that puts you in the middle of everything?
Whether it’s Hyde Park film nights, Oxford Street shopping, or al fresco adventures across the capital, The Cumberland Hotel London is your home base for it all. Just steps away from Hyde Park London and Marble Arch station.
Still planning your London trip? Book your stay today
