There’s something a little bit special about London’s outdoor cinemas. Largely found on repurposed rooftops or above multi-storey car parks, these unusual spots almost always offer views dramatic enough to vie for attention with whatever’s on screen. Whether showing new releases or old favourites, there are few better ways to pass a sunny afternoon than basking in the rays while watching a favourite film. And, if it happens to rain? Well, there’s no greater British pastime than stubbornly persevering with an outdoor event under umbrellas and raincoats. Read on for our guide to the outdoor cinemas that promise a screening to remember…

Adventure Cinema, Kew Gardens

Arriving in more than 60 magical destinations nationwide, including London’s iconic Kew Gardens, Adventure Cinema will debut its inaugural season in the capital this June with a jam-packed line-up of films. Having formerly set up shop at the likes of Knebworth House, Cardiff Castle and Wollaton Hall, among a number of other national parks, castles, stately homes and countless heritage sites, 2025 is set to be Adventure Cinema’s best year yet. Specific to London, Kew Gardens gears up to preview the Wicked Sing-A-Long, Moana 2, The Gruffalo & Stick Man and Bridget Jones’s Diary from 20-22 June 2025. Plus, all Adventure Cinema’s destinations offer a variety of on-site food and drink options, so you can relax and sit back with delicious snacks to enjoy during the show.

Tickets from £17, visit adventurecinema.co.uk

Roof East, Stratford

Found on top of a multi-storey car park (see, we told you) conveniently located opposite Westfield Stratford City, Roof East is home to multiple bars, street food vendors, a crazy golf course, batting cages and lawn bowls, as well as an open air cinema, making it the perfect destination if you’re looking to make a day of your outing. Screenings are organised by the specialist Rooftop Film Club, so expect a slick operation complete with comfy deck chairs and a huge variety of films. This year’s line-up features newer releases including Oscar-nominees Wicked, as well as classics La La Land, The Devil Wears Prada and The Parent Trap.

Tickets from £16.95, visit roofeast.com

Rooftop Film Club, Peckham

Another summer screening offering created by the Rooftop Film Club, the cinema atop the Bussey Building in Peckham has been around long enough to become many Londoners' go-to for al fresco entertainment. Start your evening with a drink at the Bussey Rooftop Bar – the views across south London make this one of the city’s best spots for a sundowner – before retiring to your deckchair to enjoy the show. Download the app and pizza, popcorn and drinks can be delivered directly to your seat so you don’t have to miss a minute of the show. Our picks from this year’s line-up include award-winning films such as Wicked and A Real Pain, as well as classics Pretty Woman and 10 Things I Hate About You.

Tickets from £16.95, visit rooftopfilmclub.com

Openaire Cinema, Paddington

Undoubtedly London’s most unique outdoor cinema experience, Openaire does away with standard seating, swapping picnic blankets and deck chairs for, um, boats. Described as being akin to a drive-in cinema, the ‘float-in’ concept sees guests kitted out with a boat for up to eight people plus headphones to provide you with top-quality sound. Simply pick up your boat and navigate your way through the waters of Little Venice down to Merchant Square in Paddington. Once arrived, boats remain moored throughout the screening, so you’ll have access to land for the duration. This summer’s films have yet to be announced but, with Joker, Jaws and The Greatest Showman making up last year's line-up, we recommend booking your boat now.

From £248.40 for an eight-person boat, visit openaire.com

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