In London, a properly affordable night out is a rare find. Usually, there’s some exception that finds you paying more than you expected, or you get carried away as the night goes on and get sucked into the black hole of London’s extortionate prices. But what if I told you, we at Secret London have caught wind of a night out that isn’t just affordable – it’s entirely free?!
Over in Canary Wharf (yes, I know – a free night out in Canary Wharf? How?!), you’ll find Theatreship. The floating arts centre is quite literally a ship that has been transformed into a celebration of theatre and the arts. And every week they hold completely free cinema screenings.
Free cinema screenings
Waiting for the hidden price? Well, there isn’t really one. The cinema screening really is entirely free. And you could very easily go along and enjoy the film without purchasing food or drink for an entirely free night out. There is just one small catch – you don’t know what you’re watching until the movie starts.
The free mystery cinema screenings take place every Wednesday. Act quickly to book your spot, though, as they book up fast!
As if a free night out at the cinema wasn’t enough, you could even drink for free! The first person at each of the events to correctly guess the evening’s screening wins their first round of drinks for free. Keep an eye on their Instagram as they reveal clues ahead of the event, to help you make your guess.
Even if you don’t win free drinks, it’s a very affordable night out – particularly by London standards. Drinks sit around the £4-6 mark and, of course, there’s plenty of popcorn and snacks to munch on while you watch the flick. It’s easily one of the city’s most enjoyable and affordable nights out.
Theatreship
The 300-tonne ex-cargo ship was built back in 1913, when London’s docks were filled with similar vessels. Now it’s one of the last examples left. A few years back, it underwent a makeover to become the largest floating theatre and cinema in the UK.
The ship is part of Canary Wharf’s ambitious Arts and Heritage berth. It was joined shortly after opening by Artship – a 400 capacity exhibition and installation space aboard one of the last remaining 1930s diesel ships. Together, the two vessels comprise the world’s largest floating arts centre.
As well as the free cinema screenings, Theatreship hosts live music, theatre performances, readings, and more.
🛥️ Find out more about Theatreship and book a seat for the free mystery cinema screening here.
📍 The Ship is moored on the Millwall Cutting, Canary Wharf, E14 5GX. Find it on the Arts and Heritage Berth.
🚇 The nearest stations are South Quay and Canary Wharf.
