Drive-in cinemas have grown in popularity in the UK over the last few years, with Covid-19 causing a massive boost in sales as people gravitated towards the outdoor events that still allowed them to maintain their personal space. And it looks like the trend isn’t going anywhere. We have rounded up some of the most exciting drive-in events coming to Bristol and beyond, so you can park up and sit back without having to leave your car!
Showman Cinema | 26 Apr – 2 May
Cross the border to Wales to experience your favourite film under the stars in the dreamy seaside town of Porthcawl. Each movie – from Tangled to The Notebook to 10 Things I Hate About You – comes with a pre-show act to set the scene and you’ll have the option to upgrade your ticket for a snackbox to enjoy in the car. At just £20 a car, this Welsh drive-in cinema is sure to delight.
The Alfresco Theatre | 6 – 8 May
Taking place at Warleigh Lodge Farm in Bath, get ready for a week of drive-in live entertainment and cinema screenings, from Mark Watson’s Carpool Comedy Club and the singalong sensation Björn Again: The ABBA Show to a series of screenings including Jo Jo Rabbit and Jurassic Park. Ready for the cherry on top? The Alfresco Theatre comes with a host of superstar chefs from Rick Stein to Jason Atherton who will be serving up one-off dishes, delivered straight to your car! Yum.
Daisy Dukes | 21 – 23 May
Located at Filton Airfield, Daisy Dukes Drive-In Cinema is coming to Bristol for a weekend of movie magic with all-time favourites like Grease, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Pulp Fiction to instant classics including IT, Bohemian Rhapsody, Joker and Mamma Mia. The films all have different starting times so you’re guaranteed to find your perfect slot. Ticket prices vary by the number of passengers in the vehicle and include a 7 day cool-off period after purchasing in case you change your mind.
Luna Drive-In Cinema | 6 – 24 May
Admittedly, we’re venturing a bit further afield with this event located at Blenheim Palace in Oxford (1 hour and 30 min drive from Bristol) but their range of movies on offer is simply too good to pass up on! And don’t get me started on the location – a UNESCO World Heritage site for a parking spot? Yes please. Pull up to Blenheim and you’ll have your pick of some of the most iconic films in Hollywood history: Notting Hill, Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet, Jaws, Back to the Future, and more. Tickets are priced by car so you can bring all your mates along without paying extra.
Film & Food Fest | 5 – 8 Aug
Ok, we’re slightly cheating with this one because it doesn’t actually require cars – but this 4 day festival taking place on the beautiful Clifton Downs deserves an honourable mention. Described as a “socially spacious festival for Summer 2021”, the Film & Food Fest promises outdoor cinema screenings (Rocky Horror Picture Show, anyone?), stand up comedy, local street food and excitingly, an evening of short films created by regional film makers. Leave your car at home for this one, but don’t forget to bring the camping chairs!
Create Your Own Outdoor Cinema
If drive-in cinemas aren’t really your thing but you still want to experience the thrill of binging your favourite films outdoors, why not rent an outdoor cinema kit – including everything you might need for a 4-day experience from home. Complete with a projection unit, screen, wireless headphones and delivery and collection, this easy-to-manage bundle will transform your backyard into your very own outdoor cinema.
No matter the occasion, we've got the cars to get you there. Rent one from your community today and be on your way in no time.
