It wouldn't be summer in London without an onslaught of pop-up outdoor cinemas and rooftop film screenings. Whether you're into classic flicks or the newest releases, check out where you can get your al fresco film fix in summer 2018.
The Nomad Cinema
We're kicking off with Nomad because not only does this wandering cinema offer a cracking selection of flicks throughout the season, it also raises money for charity. It's a volunteer-run social enterprise, with 100% of profits going to The Sustainability Institute, a development programme in South Africa.
The full summer 2018 programme hasn't been announced yet, but screenings in the atmospheric Brompton Cemetery are always a highlight. Other venues on the list include Leadenhall Market, the gardens of St Paul's Cathedral, Grosvenor Square and Paddington Square Gardens.
The Nomad Cinema, from 13 May 2018
Rooftop Film Club
Rooftops in Peckham, Shoreditch and Stratford are being graced with Rooftop Film Club pop-ups this year. Cult classics sit on the bill alongside new releases such as Ladybird and Black Panther. A full bar is available at each location, along with snacks such as popcorn and chocolate, and more substantial food offerings (details for this year TBC). Our recommendation? Head for the Bussey Building in Peckham for seriously impressive views over the London skyline at sunset.
Rooftop Film Club, from 3 May 2018
The Luna Cinema
This open-air cinema is holding 175 screenings all over the UK this summer including, for the first time, on the beach in Brighton. But it's London we're here to talk about, so let's talk about Four Weddings and a Funeral at Westminster Abbey, Dunkirk in Greenwich Park, and that annual classic, Jaws on a dinghy at Brockwell Lido. There are plenty of other impressive London venues including Alexandra Palace, Battersea Park, Hampton Court Palace and the RAF Museum, with films ranging from classics (Pretty Woman, The Breakfast Club) to new releases (The Greatest Showman, Three Billboards...)
The Luna Cinema, 16 May-7 October 2018
Royal Opera House's BP Big Screens
Who says nothing in this life is free? Entry to these livestreamed Royal Opera House screenings is. Big screens pop at locations including Trafalgar Square on three different dates across the summer, opening the likes of Swan Lake, La bohéme and Don Giovanni to a wider audience.
BP Big Screens — Royal Opera House, 12 June-12 July 2018
Hyde Park Summertime Festival
Even if you haven't got tickets for the blockbuster music gigs that headline Hyde Park's British Summer Time festival, you're invited to Open House, the weekday events that take place in the park between the gigs, including street food markets, sports events and open-air film screenings. The exact details for this year haven't been released yet, but watch this space...
BST Hyde Park Open House, 9-12 July 2018
Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House
Once again for a fortnight in August, that cobbled courtyard will be home to a giant cinema screen, with crowds huddling round for screenings. Already announced so far this year are Inception, Labyrinth and Call Me By Your Name — keep an eye on the website for updates.
Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, 9-22 August 2018