The UK’s Best Drive-In Cinemas For Summer 2021

Drive-in cinemas have long been associated with American culture – but last year they emerged as a pandemic-induced trend this side of the pond. Wondering which one to book for summer 2021? Here’s our pick of the best, featuring roller skating waiters, American diner-style snacks and a whole host of great movies – all to be enjoyed from the comfort of your car.

Best Drive-In Cinemas For Summer 2021

Wavelength Drive-In Cinema

The award for the most unique outdoor cinema setting goes to the Wavelength team, who have created a film screening pop-up on a clifftop overlooking Watergate Bay Beach near Newquay. The series will kick off with the 1978 surf film Big Wednesday, followed by a number of family-friendly and cult classic film screenings throughout the summer. Craft beer, popcorn and street food will also be available. 16 July – 15 September. wavelengthmag.com

The Openaire Float-In Cinema by Häagen-Dazs

Less drive-in and more of a float-in cinema (the UK’s very first), Häagen Dazs’ The Openaire is back this summer following a successful run last year. The cinema experience sees 16 eco-boats floating amongst Regent’s Canal, where guests can enjoy a self-driven boat-ride around Little Venice, then pitch up at Merchant Square to enjoy a classic film screening on the large-scale LED video screen. Cinema snacks can be ordered via mobile and delivered to the boats (including Häagen-Dazs delights, of course), whilst delicious Italian cuisine will be served up at award-winning chef RaviOllie’s waterside pop-up kitchen – delizioso! 2 – 27 June 2021. openaire.co.uk

Drive In Film Club

The ever-popular Rooftop Film Club was ahead of the curve on this one, producing a drive-in cinema experience back in 2014. Its new offering takes places at Alexandra Palace, which has been equipped with a giant 40-foot LED screen. Movies on the cards include vintage classics like Grease – with its iconic drive-in scene – and Pulp Fiction, alongside newer releases such as Rocketman. Fuel your viewing with hot dogs from Popdogs, or bring your own snacks along for the ride. rooftopfilmclub.com

The Luna Drive-In

Luna Cinema is known for hosting some of the country’s best outdoor film events, and its drive-in offering is no exception. Cruise up to enjoy films on the UK’s highest definition outdoor screens, in-car digital sound solutions and a new click and collect food and drink offering. The movie line-up includes cult classics like Legally Blonde and Grease plus newer releases including Onward, Rocketman and Knives Out. lunadriveincinema.com

The Alfresco Theatre Drive-In

A brand-new drive-in travelling restaurant and cinema has launched in the UK, featuring great food, live shows, comedy gigs and movies. Tom Kerridge, Rick Stein and Jason Atherton all feature in the food line-up, alongside feel-good films like Dirty Dancing, The Greatest Showman and Grease. 28 April – 13 June. thealfrescotheatre.co.uk

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