In a city with endlessly creative ways to watch films, how do you stand out amongst the open-air cinema options? Well, you can always make it free! And that’s exactly what now awaits visitors to King’s Cross in the form of the delightful Everyman Screen on the Canal open-air film festival.
Running from July 1 until August 18, the canal-side viewing experience from Everyman treats Londoners to completely free screenings of everything from blockbuster films to huge sporting events. You can lay back and enjoy a warm summer’s day as you catch a flick, or watch the Wimbledon play out. Over the course of the screenings, they’ll be showing over 150 films that range from cult classics to family favourites, and beyond.
Want to know what awaits you at the canal-side viewing? Have a look at our visit when we checked out last year’s festival. It’s a delightful way to spend a day out.
Every year, the free film festival turns the Granary Square steps of King’s Cross into an idyllic canal-side viewing area. Viewers can flop into a bean bag, lounge in a, er, lounger, or grab a seat on the grass-covered steps.
And sure we all know the British summer is pretty unpredictable, but that shouldn’t stop you! Who knows – maybe you prefer your movie with a light drizzle and a mac? Or with a cool evening breeze as the sun starts to set? As for us – we’ll spring for the heat and the sunshine.
What to see at Screen On The Canal
Screenings run throughout the day and into the evening, with films ranging from blockbuster hits to feel-good family favourites. Previous screenings have included the likes of Jumanji, Mamma Mia, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and plenty more. And good news for those concerned about accessibility, according to Everyman “the vast majority of [the] films are subtitled with the possible exception of some smaller independent films.”
In between screenings, live music keeps the crowds entertained. Handy for waking up that one friend that always falls asleep at the movies…
King’s Cross summer programme
The Screen on the Canal film festival forms part of King’s Cross’s packed summer programme of events, pop-ups, and activities. Visitors can enjoy a taste of the French Riviera from June 19 – September 1. You can enjoy a game of boules in Pancras Square, live music, dance and performances at the Summer Sounds festival, and a whole host of markets to explore.
Find out more here.
Screen On The Canal is unticketed, with limited seats per viewing, so be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment. And remember, it’s absolutely free! Well, besides any food or drink you might buy… Find out more at the website.
Screen on the Canal will run from July 1 to August 18 at Canalside Steps, Granary Square, King’s Cross, N1C 4PQ.