The Reader’s boutique outdoor cinema is returning to The Mansion House garden for its second season, offering feel-good films, feasting, and fizz throughout July and August.
Emerald Fennell’s new adaptation of Wuthering Heights, alongside cult classics Clueless and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, are among the ten top films set to be screened at Liverpool’s largest outdoor cinema this summer.
The stunning setting of the Grade II-listed Georgian house in Calderstones Park provides a unique backdrop for the cinematic experience.
A Community-Led Programme
This year, the local community played a direct role in selecting the lineup.
Jen Chapman, Associate Director of Marketing, Communications & Digital at The Reader, said:
“We’re delighted our open-air cinema is back in one of South Liverpool’s most iconic locations and this year we asked the local community for any films they’d like to see on the big screen here.
“La La Land, Grease, Dirty Dancing and Jurassic Park were all popular requests and we are so excited to add them to this summer season.
“Audiences are invited into an experience which extends beyond a film screening in our gorgeous Mansion House garden with food, fizz, festoon lighting and a festival feel.”
Summer 2026 Film Schedule
The season features an eclectic mix of literary adaptations, family favourites, and Hollywood blockbusters.
Outdoor Evening Screenings (various times):
- Pride (15): Wednesday 29 July, 9 pm
- Dirty Dancing (12): Wednesday 30 July, 9 pm and Friday 14 August, 8.30 pm
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s (PG): Sunday 2 August, 8.45 pm
- Clueless (12): Tuesday 4 August, 8.45 pm
- Wuthering Heights (15): Wednesday 5 August, 9 pm
- Romeo + Juliet (12A): Wednesday 12 August, 8.30 pm
- Grease (12): Thursday 13 August, 8.30 pm and Thursday 20 August, 8.15 pm
- La La Land (12A): Wednesday 19 August, 8.30 pm
- Back to the Future (PG): Wednesday 26 August, 8.15 pm
- Jurassic Park (12A): Thursday 27 August, 8.15pm
Mini Movies for Young Fans
For the youngest cinema lovers, a series of Mini Movies will take place every Monday during the school holidays at 10.30 am inside the Mansion House Theatre Room.
- Zog and the Flying Doctors: Monday 27 July
- The Scarecrows’ Wedding: Monday 3 August
- Tabby McTat: Monday 10 August
- The Smeds & The Smoos: Monday 17 August
- The Highway Rat: Monday 24 August
- The Gruffalo: Monday 31 August
Enhancing the Experience
To ensure comfort, the experience includes soundproof headphones, deckchairs, and heaters.
If the British weather brings a light drizzle, the cinema is protected by a giant open-air canopy.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive an hour early to enjoy live music and al fresco dining.
Tickets are priced at £15 for adults and £9.50 for under 16s and Mini Movies.
Calderstones Members receive a 10% discount and can access priority booking starting Friday 1 May.
General sale begins on Tuesday 5 May via The Reader’s website.
