The evenings are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and we can finally start spending some more time in the great outdoors.

And, that includes cinema-goers; over the next few months, there are some magical movie screenings taking place at stunning open-air venues so, whether it’s a date night with your other half or a family film with the kids, you can make the most of cinema under the stars this summer…

CANTERBURY

Curzon Riverside

For the first time since opening in 2022, this cinema complex is going alfresco for the summer. Not only can you catch screenings of feel-good musicals and gritty blockbusters, but visitors can also watch the Euro 2024 matches and, at the end of the month, the headline set from this year’s Glastonbury Festival will be shown on the big screen. Tickets include headphones for each person and there will be food and drink available to purchase.

Dates below, book online here.

Thursday, June 13: Empire of Light (15)

Friday, June 14: Rocketman (15)

Saturday, June 15: Amélie (15)

Friday, June 21: Purple Rain (15)

Saturday, June 22: Romeo and Juliet (12)

Sunday, June 23: Singin’ in the Rain (U)

Thursday, June 27: Jaws (12)

Friday, June 28: The Rocky Horror Picture Show (15)

Saturday, June 29: The Talented Mr Ripley (15)

FOLKESTONE

Harbour Arm

The outdoor screen at Folkestone’s Harbour Arm is showing all the classics, from Footloose to Dirty Dancing, and the best part is it’s completely free. All you need to do is turn up, find a deckchair and enjoy the film but, if you do want to make more of a night of it, you can also pick up some street food and craft beer from the Goods Yard.

Friday, June 14: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (12)

Friday, June 21: A Knight’s Tale (PG)

Friday, June 28: Footloose (12A)

Friday, July 5: The Muppets (U)

Friday, July 12: Dirty Dancing (15)

Friday, July 19: Back to the Future (12)

Saturday, July 27: 10 Things I Hate About You (12)

Friday, August 2: Top Gun (15)

Friday, August 9: Barbie (12)

Friday, August 16: Flash Gordon (15)

Friday, August 23: Miss Congeniality (12)

Friday, August 30: Top Gun Maverick (12)

Friday, September 6: Mrs Doubtfire (12)

Friday, September 13: Pitch Perfect (12A)

GRAVESEND

Cobham Hall

Adventure Cinema is travelling all over the country this summer, bringing outdoor cinema to some of the UK’s most beautiful stately homes, historic sites and grand estates. Its stop in Kent will be at Gravesend’s Cobham Hall, where Junior Bake Off was filmed, and includes four fantastic family films.

Dates below, book online here.

Thursday, August 15: Grease (PG)

Friday, August 16: The Greatest Showman (PG)

Saturday, August 17: Mamma Mia PG)

Sunday, August 18: Back to the Future (12)

MARGATE

Cliftonville Oval Bandstand

Cliftonville, near the seaside town of Margate, started up its outdoor cinema in 2019. Since then, it’s been a staple part of the summer calendar and returns this year with three films, including two sing-along musicals and an ‘80s Oscar winner.

Dates below, book online here.

Friday, July 12: Grease (PG)

Friday, August 16: The Greatest Showman (PG)

Friday, September 6: ET the Extra-Terrestrial (U)

TONBRIDGE

Tonbridge School

Soar through the skies with Tom Cruise or join the circus with Hugh Jackman as two of box office smash hits from the 21st century are being shown at Tonbridge School. The two-night double-bill of outdoor cinema is first come, first served so get down there early to bag yourself the best seats.

Dates below, book online here.

Thursday, August 1: Top Gun Maverick (12)

Friday, August 2: The Greatest Showman (PG)

WESTERHAM

Chartwell

Late in the summer season, two films will be shown at National Trust property and Winston Churchill’s former home, Chartwell. The Darkest Hour, a biopic all about the WWII prime minister, will be screened in August, while September brings us Timothée Chalamet as quirky confectionist Willy Wonka.

Dates below, book online here.

Saturday, August 31: The Darkest Hour (PG)

Friday, September 27: Wonka (PG)