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?
Movie galore at The Grove Hotel
14th July - 3rd 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, British classics, or pop-up Italian dining. 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!
Watford Wonders
24th-30th July
Enjoy a day out in the park this summer... watch the trees, the bees, and the movie screen! The Watford Big Screen is back and better than ever and you can watch your favourite movies while you eat an ice cream and lie on the grass. You can still catch showings of Jaws, Big, Pretty Woman, Brave, and many more. The picnic blankets will be laid, the summer sun will (hopefully) be blazing and you’ll be able to enjoy all the scenes on the big screen.
Full house at Hatfield
31st July & 3rd August
If your summer is looking a little quiet, then no need to fear as Immersion Theatre is coming to the magnificent Hatfield House. The Jacobean country house, dating back to 1611, will be the host of two amazing nights of live performance in the great outdoors. You and the little ones will be able to laugh and dance along at the production of The Wizard of Oz on 31st July, then head back for a rendition of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night on 3rd August.
Nights at Knebworth
6th & 24th August
This August, the elegant gardens of Knebworth House will be transformed into the ultimate open air theatre venue as both the Immersion Theatre and The Lord Chamberlain's Men come knocking at the grand door. Set against the dramatic backdrop of one of the finest stately homes in the country, there will be two nights of fantastic theatre under the stars on the big stage. Whether you want some tragedy and romance in a performance of Romeo & Juliet, or the family's looking for some fun with The Wizard of Oz, your summer entertainment is ready and waiting...
Summer Sundown Cinema
10th-20th August
Picture this, on a warm summer’s evening you’re sat down on the grass and the smell of lavender fills the air. You’ve got toffee popcorn in one hand and a refreshing beverage in the other. You sit back, relax and BOOM, the most amazing film of all time blasts out, giving you on-the-edge-of-your-seat entertainment like no other. At Hitchin Lavender fields you can live the dream as the Sundown Cinema will be bringing their biggest screen, brightest projector and best sound system! Across nine dates in August, you can witness cinematic magic from the likes of Elvis, Matilda the Musical, Alien, Top Gun: Maverick, and so much more! Click here for the full listings.
Screen on the Green
17th-19th August
Fancy catching a film in one of England's garden cities? Welwyn has got you covered! Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine as you watch one of your family favourites this summer - Black Panther 2, Super Mario Bros, Grease, and many more! Bring along the snacks and picnic blanket to these free showings running over three days in August. With movies playing in the morning, afternoon, and evening, you can fit one in whenever suits your busy summer schedule!
Happiness at Hertford Castle
18th August
Back by popular demand, Hertford Castle's Open Air Cinema is returning to the beautifully historic grounds this August. Expect singing, dancing and a whole load of action as Hertford Castle presents Sing 2 and Top Gun: Maverick. So whether you want a little bit of family fun, or the thrill of an action packed adventure, you can find something for you at Hertford Castle.
The greatest shows at Ashridge House
24th August
As the summer sun sets on the neo-gothic Ashridge House Estate, the gardens will be illuminated by the brilliance of their outdoor theatre shows. Come along for an evening of entertainment with a showing of the much-loved classic, Wind in the Willows. This is a night for the whole family, young or old, that will spark the wonder and imagination in all of us, so book today, pack a picnic and we'll see you there!
Movie Sensations in St Albans
TBC
Get ready for a festival like none other as the iconic St Albans Cathedral brings us a whole host of outdoor cinema and film fun. Last year saw the likes of Blade Runner, Grosse Point Blank, The Full Monty, as well as quizzes and competitions, so check back on their website soon for more details. Movie buffs...we'll see you there.