The days are getting longer and the smell of sun cream is ever stronger. The picnic blankets are at the ready and mum’s holding the popcorn steady. So it’s time to sit back, relax and watch some epic movies under the stars this summer.
From Hollywood classics to new found favourites, you are sure to find something to watch that even the toughest of critics will enjoy. And, what better place to enjoy the open-air cinema than here in Herts?
Down Hall
16th, 17th, 18th May
Taking place within Down Hall’s stunning 110-acres garden, you can unwind with a picturesque backdrop this spring as you book in for a showing at their wonderful open-air cinema. With three showings throughout the month, the choice is yours – will it be an evening of singing watching Mamma Mia, a screening with perhaps a few tears and lots of love with Moulin Rouge, or perhaps some retro fun for the whole family with Back to the Future?
Knebworth House
September
This year, the elegant gardens of Knebworth House will be transformed into the ultimate open air cinema venue as they host five films with a variety of genres. Set against the dramatic backdrop of one of the finest stately homes in the country, there will be several nights including Richard Gere and Julia Roberts' Pretty Woman, to a Wicked sing along. Plus, once you have sung and laughed the night away, stay the night at their holiday cottages and wake up in the countryside!
The Watford Big Screen
4th-10th August, 11th-17th August
Enjoy a day out in the park and centre of Watford this summer... watch the trees, the bees, and the movie screen as the Watford Big Screen is back once more and is better than ever. From the 4th to the 10th August, the town centre will host the big screen, and then 11th to 17th August, it will move to the Knutsford Playing Fields so you can lay out on the grass and soak in the summer. And the best bit is that every one is free! Keep an eye on their website for the showings closer to the time.
The Grove
July – September
Ever wanted to enjoy an outdoors movie on the grounds of a 5-star hotel, formerly home to the Earls of Clarendon? Well now you can! Come along to The Grove Hotel, where guests can enjoy complimentary viewings of a great range of films in the hotel's Walled Garden, and non-guests can book a movie with dinner from one of their three restaurants. Sample some culinary delights from fantastic food stations, South Asian cuisine at Madhu’s, or pop-up Turkish dining at Skewd. Then head over to the magical walled garden where you can enjoy a viewing of a new release, or kick back with a classic. The options are endless at The Grove this summer!
Roman Theatre Open Air Festival
Once used for Roman entertainment such as dancing through to religious ceremonies, the St Albans Roman Theatre is today hosting a range of modern day outdoor recreation, and in quite the setting. The festival programme has been pulled together by OVO and the theatre will host the likes of Mark Morriss Live (of The Bluetones) on the 8th June, The Great Gatsby 8th to 24th August and Lord of the Flies on the 28th to 31st August.