There’s something undeniably charming about an outdoor film screening. It’s the kind of event that takes over London’s parks and rooftops when the weather warms up – and for good reason! But do you know what’s even better than an outdoor movie-watching session? A FREE one, of course! So we’ve rounded up the best free outdoor film screenings to enjoy in London this summer.
Summer By The River
This London Bridge riverside festival brings summer vibes to our capital all through the warmer months. Each year sees a stacked roster of events taking over the area, as well as plenty of free outdoor film screenings! Throughout the summer, you can head to their The Scoop viewing area to enjoy everything from family-friendly flicks to cinematic classics.
🎬 What’s showing? Paddington In Peru, Despicable Me 4, and more.
📍 Where is it? You can find Summer By The River’s The Scoop at 110 The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2AA. The nearest station is London Bridge.
Find out more here.
Canary Wharf Summer Screens
Canary Wharf is bringing back the spectacular Summer Screens viewing experiences with loads of film-watching opportunities, as well as some competitive fun. Running all the way from May until September 27, visitors can catch their favourite films and the top sporting events of the summer across the two enormous screens. They’ll even be operating a huge Mario Kart Championship, where players can compete against friends and family to win big prizes. No tickets are needed – you can just turn up and find somewhere to sit!
🎬 What’s showing? Find Nemo, Mrs Doubtfire, and more – as well as all the sporting action of the summer.
📍 Where is it? You can find the Canary Wharf Summer Screens at Canada Square Park, 25 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, E14 5AH. The nearest station is Canary Wharf.
Find out more here.
BST Hyde Park Open House
The BST Hyde Park festival is more than just a celebration of music – it also brings a packed programme of events and activities to our city throughout its run from late June to mid-July. The events we’re most excited for? The free film screenings of course, which allow you to rock up and enjoy a movie! Again – no tickets required!
🎬 What’s showing? Wicked Singalong, The Goonies, and more.
📍 Where is it? You can find BST Hyde Park Open House at the Parade Ground on the East side of Hyde Park, W2 2UH. The nearest stations are Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner.
Find out more here.
Screen on the Canal
The Everyman on the Canal film screenings are back once again, providing movie watching experiences on the King’s Cross steps from June 30 – August 17. There are no tickets and no sign-ups – just turn up and grab a seat to enjoy the show! But don’t be too late because these screenings are very popular and it can be hard to find a seat…
🎬 What’s showing? Expect to see everything from family favourites to cult classics and Hollywood blockbusters.
📍 Where is it? You can find Screen on the Canal at Canalside Steps, Granary Square, King’s Cross, N1C 4PQ. The nearest station is… erm… King’s Cross…
Find out more here.
Vauxhall Summer Screen
Vauxhall’s Summer Screen returns in 2025 for its 12th year of free outdoor film screenings. Throughout July they’ll be showing a variety of movies for a free cinemative experience. However, it’s important to know that the screenings are free but you’ll need a ticket to get in!
🎬 What’s showing? Aladdin, Mean Girls, and more.
📍 Where is it? You can find the Vauxhall Summer Screen at New Spring Gardens Walk, Vauxhall, Vauxhall Walk, SE11 5HL. The nearest station is Vauxhall.
Find out more here.
Merchant Square Summer Movie Nights
Merchant Square is here to add a bit of magic to your summer nights with their canal-side movie nights under the stars. There are no bookings and plenty of deckchairs to kick back in for the film. They’ve also got street food available so you can enjoy some food while you watch. Screenings will run from July 16 – September 24.
🎬 What’s showing? Dirty Dancing, Moana 2, and more.
📍 Where is it? You can find the Merchant Square Big Screen in Merchant Square, Paddington, W2 1JZ. The nearest station is Paddington.
Find out more here.
So, there you have it – all the best spots for free outdoor film screenings in London. Fancy a night watching Hollywood stars under the stars? Then head on down to your nearest event!