Last Updated on 20 July 2026 by Colette
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By their very nature, outdoor cinemas and open air film screenings are a bit of a seasonal thing – something which saw an increase in popularity post covid when we were all keen to be outside as much as possible and trying to socialise within social distancing restrictions! Thankfully that’s not something we have to be quite so concerned about now but the outdoor cinema has remained – every cloud!
Going to watch films outdoors is definitely less comfortable or convenient than a proper cinema – you have to take your own blanket or chair rather than a cosy reclining chair in your local cinema and if the wind is blowing the wrong way then the sound might be a bit rubbish – but of course the novelty value is high and ultimately that makes up for it! Typically open air cinemas tend to show your classic films – the ones you’ve already seen, know and love – so if the sound is a bit dodgy, or you’re not as comfortable as you might have hoped it probably doesn’t matter!
Booking tickets for open air cinema screenings, or outdoor events in general, in Manchester comes with an element of risk because of course it might just tip it down – but if it doesn’t, if it’s a warm, clear evening under the stars then you’re in for a treat. (And if it does rain? Well then dress appropriately and pack a flask of hot chocolate and a can of squirty cream and laugh about it!)
It’s worth bearing in mind that most of these big screen showings are after sunset when the temperature can really drop even if it was glorious during the day – take jumpers and cozy blankets so you can really snuggle in!
Manchester Pop Up and Outdoor Cinema Events for Summer 2026
You’ll find a range of alfresco cinema happening in and around Manchester this summer!
These are events with limited tickets and short runs, often of only one night, so it pays to be organised and get your tickets booked sooner rather than later.
Do check back as I’ll adding more events to this list as details become available – and if you know of any outdoor cinema events taking place in or near Greater Manchester this summer, bob me a message and I’ll add them in!
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Outdoor Cinema at Tatton Park – Saturday 29th / Sunday 30th / Monday 31st August 2026
This August bank holiday, Outdoor Cinema bring the likes of Mama Mia, Beauty & the Beast and Bohemian Rhapsody to the stunning parkland of Tatton Park.
You are welcome to pack a picnic for your Outdoor Cinema experience however only alcohol purchased on site is permitted so don’t be trying to sneak any wine into your picnic basket!
Book tickets for Mama Mia at Tatton Park | Beauty & the Beast | Bohemian Rhapsody | Tangled
Adventure Cinema at Lyme – Friday 4th / Saturday 5th / Sunday 6th September 2026
Adventure Cinema are bringing one long summer weekend of open-air cinema to Cheshire with three nights of films at Lyme including blockbusters Star Wars: A New Hope, Elvis Presley in Concert and Pride and Prejudice.
Various ticket prices are available including “bring your own blanket or camping chair” or you can book a “luxury deck chair in a prime position” if you’re feeling fancy.
Book tickets for Adventure Cinema at Lyme
Keep an eye on The Green at St John’s
A brand-new outdoor event space has opened in Manchester city centre, with plans for open-air film screenings, live sports broadcasts and summer events throughout the season. Full cinema details are still being announced
FAQs and tips for attending outdoor cinema events in the Manchester area
What should I bring to an outdoor cinema screening?
Most outdoor cinema events recommend bringing a camping chair, picnic blanket, warm clothing and waterproof layers. Some venues allow picnics, while others have restrictions on food and drink, so check the event details before attending.
What happens if it rains?
Outdoor cinema screenings usually go ahead in light rain. Severe weather may result in a delay, rescheduling or cancellation. Event organisers will normally contact ticket holders if plans change.
Are outdoor cinema events suitable for children?
Many screenings are family-friendly, especially daytime showings and films with U or PG ratings. Some evening events may be aimed at adults, so always check the age guidance before booking.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Policies vary between venues. Some outdoor cinema events encourage picnics, while others have licensed bars or food vendors and restrict outside food and drink.
How early should I arrive?
Most organisers recommend arriving 30–60 minutes before the advertised start time. This gives you time to find a good spot, set up chairs or blankets, and purchase refreshments.
Do outdoor cinema events provide seating?
Some events provide deckchairs or premium seating as part of certain ticket packages. Others require visitors to bring their own chairs or blankets (you know we love a Pacmat picnic blanket!).
Are dogs allowed at outdoor cinema screenings?
Dog policies differ by venue and event organiser. Some screenings are dog-friendly, while others only allow assistance dogs.
Where are the best outdoor cinema events near Manchester?
Popular locations include Tatton Park, Lyme, Quarry Bank and various city-centre pop-up venues throughout the summer.
Are outdoor cinema tickets refundable?
Refund policies vary. Many events only offer refunds if the organiser cancels the screening, while some may allow ticket transfers or exchanges.
Which films are usually shown at outdoor cinema events?
Outdoor cinema programmes often include recent blockbusters, cult classics, musicals, family favourites and sing-along screenings. Popular choices regularly include films such as Mamma Mia!, Grease and The Greatest Showman.
Do outdoor cinema screenings sell out?
Yes. Popular films, weekend dates and premium seating areas can sell out weeks in advance, particularly during school holidays and warm-weather weekends.
Are there outdoor cinema events in Manchester throughout the summer?
Most outdoor cinema events run between June and September, with the busiest period typically falling in July and August. New screenings are often announced throughout the season, so it’s worth checking back regularly for updates – I will of course keep this list as up to date as possible!
Below you’ll find outdoor cinema experiences which took place in Manchester last year but which are not yet confirmed for summer 2026.
IF at Cinema on the Green, Cheadle Green – May 2026 TBC
The information below relates to a previous event and will be updated as soon as information becomes available.
This May bank holiday weekend, enjoy an evening of cinema under the stars on Cheadle Green with a sunset screening of IF – magical adventure with Ryan Reynolds, reconnecting forgotten imaginary friends
Book tickets for Cinema on the Green – IF
Adventure Cinema at Capesthorne Hall – 2026 TBC
The information below relates to a previous event. Capesthorne Hall don’t currently appear to be hosting any cinema events this summer but I will of course update this if anything changes!
This June, you’re invited to enjoy an open air cinema experience at Capesthorne Hall near Macclesfield. As well as the film itself, there will be a specially curated soundtrack to enjoy before the show. This summer’s films include The Lion King, Moana 2 and Bridget Jones’ Diary
Various ticket prices are available including “bring your own blanket or camping chair” or you can book a “luxury deck chair in a prime position” if you’re feeling fancy.
Book tickets for Adventure Cinema at Capesthorne Hall
Pitch Perfect at The Heatons Sports Club, Stockport – June 2026 TBC
The information below relates to a previous event and will be updated as soon as information becomes available.
Enjoy a summer singalong showing of Pitch Perfect at Heatons Sports Club this June
Book tickets for Pitch Perfect
Outdoor Cinema: Frontier Sapiens Film Festival, Walton Hall and Gardens, Warrington – 2026 TBC
The information below relates to a previous event. Walton Hall and Gardens don’t currently appear to be hosting any cinema events this summer but I will of course update this if anything changes!
The Frontier Sapiens Film Festival showcases a selection of the world’s best adventure, cultural and environmental films from around the globe.
Coming to Warrington for the first time this summer, enjoy an evening of captivating, thought-provoking short films featuring inspiring stories of human endeavour. Travel the globe with some of the world’s best filmmakers, and experience extraordinary human spirit and wild adventures on the big screen.
Food and drink will be available to purchase but you are also welcome to pack a picnic. Don’t forget something to sit on and to dress for the weather!
Book tickets for Outdoor Cinema: Frontier Sapiens Film Festival
Movie on the Meadow: Wall-E at Quarry Bank, Cheshire | TBC 2026
The information below relates to a previous event. Quarry Bank don’t currently appear to be hosting any cinema events this summer but I will of course update this if anything changes!
This summer, take the chance to watch a much loved family movie at the outdoor cinema on the Mill Meadow at Quarry Bank.
Take a blanket or a low backed camping chair and settle down to watch the magic of Disney Pixar’s Wall-E in the open air. You’re absolutely welcome to take your own drinks and picnic (ensuring there’s no glassware) but food, drinks and popcorn will be available to purchase at the event.
Book your tickets for Wall-E at Quarry Bank – booking is essential for this event. National Trust property admission charges do not apply for this event.
Movie on the Meadow – Dirty Dancing at Quarry Bank, Cheshire | TBC 2026
The information below relates to a previous event. Quarry Bank don’t currently appear to be hosting any cinema events this summer but I will of course update this if anything changes.
This summer, enjoy an evening of 80’s nostalgia with friends and family with an outdoor cinema screening of Dirty Dancing at Quarry Bank.
Bring a blanket, low backed chairs and picnic if you fancy it and get settled in for a magical night under the stars.
Book your tickets for Dirty Dancing at Quarry Bank – booking is essential. National Trust property admission charges do not apply for this event.
Outdoor cinema near me this summer
As ever, if you do know of any open air cinema events in the Manchester area this summer that I’ve missed, let me know and I’ll add them!
Let me know if you book any of these performances and what you think of them!
Please note, all the information in this article is correct to the best of my knowledge at the time of publishing, please do check with the venues themselves if you need to confirm any details!
Have a look at these posts next:
Check out our guide to picnics here.
The best picnic blanket for big families
Outdoor theatre events in Manchester this summer
The best films to watch with your 12 year old daughter
If you’re making plans for the summer holidays, then our list of cool things to do in Manchester this summer will be sure to help!
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