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Screens in the City

Free Outdoor Cinema Returns to Cambridge This August  Cambridge BID's popular Screens in the City outdoor cinema is back this August, bringing four days of free family-friendly film screenings to two unique city centre locations.  From beloved family favourites and animated adventures to feel-good classics, residents, workers and visitors are invited to relax outdoors and enjoy a packed programme of films in the heart of Cambridge. Whether you're looking for a fun family day out, a nostalgic movie night under the sky, or simply an excuse to enjoy the summer atmosphere, Screens in the City has something for everyone. 

  • 13th August 2026 - 16th August 2026
  • 1:00 pm

The big screen will return to the train station at CB1, Station Road (next to the Clayton Hotel) and for the first time we are proud to partner with the University of Cambridge at its Downing Site, so that audiences can relax and enjoy this enclosed oasis in the city centre.  

Both locations will be transformed into open-air cinemas, complete with giant screens and a welcoming summer atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to bring along picnic blankets and deck chairs, then make the most of Cambridge’s fantastic city centre food and drink offering by picking up snacks, treats or a takeaway from local cafés, restaurants and retailers before settling in with friends and family to enjoy a day of entertainment in the open air. Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

All screenings are free to attend; however advance booking is required due to anticipated demand. Follow @lovecambridge_ on social media for ticket release announcements and event updates. 

Location: Next to Clayton Hotel, Station Road, CB1 2FB 

Thursday 13 August 

  • 1pm – The Snail and the Whale 
  • 2pm – Dog Man 
  • 4pm – Zootropolis 2 
  • 6.30pm – Back to the Future 

Friday 14 August 

  • 1pm – Zog 
  • 2pm – Chicken Run 
  • 4pm – How to Train Your Dragon 
  • 6.30pm – Grease 

 

Location: University of Cambridge at its Downing Site, Lawn Outside Courtyard Building, CB2 3ER 

Saturday 15 August 

  • 1pm – The Smeds and the Smoos 
  • 2pm – Encanto 
  • 4pm – Night at the Museum 
  • 6.30pm – School of Rock 

Sunday 16 August 

  • 1pm – Tabby McTat 
  • 2pm – Matilda 
  • 4pm – Inside Out 
  • 6.30pm – Audience Choice Screening (to be announced) 

 

Screens in the City is delivered by Cambridge BID as part of its summer events programme, creating free opportunities for people to come together, enjoy the city and make the most of Cambridge throughout the summer. 

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Did you know?

The imposing lamppost in the centre of Parker’s Piece bears the words Reality Checkpoint – believed to be a reference to the end of the university ‘bubble’ and the beginning of the real world, aka the rest of the city.