Screen & Scene Under the Stars: Nottingham’s Best Outdoor Shows

Get ready to swap the sofa for a deck chair and enjoy showtime under the stars! This summer, Nottingham is bursting with open-air theatre and cinema events that bring stories to life in the most magical settings. From timeless classics performed in historic gardens to big-screen favourites in scenic parks, it’s the perfect way to soak up the sunshine, and a bit of culture too. 

You can get whisked away in the glorious gardens of Welbeck Abbey, where you can soak up the sun as a timeless Shakespeare classic unfolds before your eyes. Or head to local hotspot Binks Yard and make your way to the terrace—home to the largest outdoor screen in the East Midlands—for a larger-than-life movie night under the stars. 

Outdoor Cinema and theatre has a vast array of benefits that span way more than just enjoying the show. Swapping stuffy rooms for the great outdoors, not only provides a unique setting making the experince extra memoriable but the fresh air boosts your mood and increases serotonin levels, helping you feel happier and more relaxed—perfect for unwinding at a show. 

Not only this, but its a perfect way to socialise and connect with your loved one. Whether your looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during the summer holidays, a quirky date night, or a unique night with friends, outdoor cineam and theatre offers just that.

We've round out some of our top picks for outdoor cinema and theatre below but the full round up of events can be found on our 'Outdoor theatre and Cinema page' and 'Whats On Calendar' 

Imagine settling onto a soft patch of grass in the sweeping lawns of Wollaton Park, the air filled with the gentle rustle of ancient deer wandering nearby. Well fear not, you can turn these thoughts in to reality this summer against the dramatic backdrop of the iconic Elizabethan Wollaton Hall. With hot food stalls, a fully-stocked bar, and pre-show music to set the mood, it’s a picnic-and-film experience that’s sure to be unforgettable. 

Returning for another year is 'Films in the Forest' at Nottingham’s legendary Sherwood Forest. Set in Robin Hood’s very own backyard, this unique outdoor cinema experience invites you to settle in under the summer sun (or stars!) for a weekend of epic films, woodland vibes, and magical atmosphere. Surrounded by towering trees and centuries of myth, you’ll enjoy everything from family favourites to big-screen adventures—all in one of the UK’s most iconic and enchanting locations.

Wollaton Hall isn’t just stopping at cinema magic this summer—it’s also rolling out one of the region’s most charming open-air theatre seasons! Across its stunning Formal Gardens, expect to see a stellar line-up of visiting theatre companies bringing classic stories to life in the open. Pack your blankets or low-back seating, grab a picnic, and settle into the grassy amphitheatre as the Elizabethan mansion glows behind each performance. Gates open about an hour before curtain-up—come rain or shine, the show goes on!

Newstead Abbey isn’t just a picturesque historic house— Even Lord Byron would be proud of it’s transformation into a vibrant stage and screen this summer! Nestled across Byron’s Lawn, visitors can enjoy touring open‑air theatre companies performing Shakespear and H.M.S Pinafore. Pack a picnic, bring your blanket or chair, and settle in for evenings filled with laughter, drama, and cinematic magic—right in the heart of one of Nottinghamshire’s most stunning venues.

Nestled atop the dramatic rise of Castle Rock and encircled by the lush display of the Castle Grounds,  Nottingham Castle Open-Theatre finds its perfect home on the spacious, rolling expanse of Castle Green. Settle upon the grassy grounds and picnic with friends or family, nearby on-site toilets and takeaway snacks mean everything you need is close at hand so whether you're soaking in Shakespeare, a Robin Hood romp, or a heart-warming family show, the setting on the Castle Green turns every performance into a truly immersive experience.