When the Crystal Palace subway was built, the world’s first cinema was still three decades away.
So it’s pretty amazing that almost 160 years after it was completed, the subway’s about to become home to a pop-up Christmas cinema.
If you’ve never been to the Crystal Palace subway, well – you’re in the majority. The beautifully odd Victorian structure was built to connect the old rail station with the Crystal Palace itself. After that was demolished almost a century ago, the underpass fell out of use, and was finally closed off in 1954.
After years of passionate local campaigns, the Grade II*-listed subway’s finally been revived thanks to an epic £3.5 million restoration. It’s quite the looker, with its unusual octagonal columns and terracotta vaulted roof. And it’s going to look particularly glamorous this winter, when the outdoor cinema aficionados at Pop Up Screens take over the space and deck the halls with fairy lights, tinsel and Christmas trees.
All the classics are on the slate, from Elf and Love Actually to Home Alone and The Muppets Christmas Carol. And there’ll be a full bar loaded with popcorn, sweets and booze (you can also bring your own snacks if you fancy).
Book tickets, and you’ll be some of the first people to step into that space in 70 years…
Spooooooky. Festive.
NOTE: Pop Up Screens is taking over the Crystal Palace Subway from 6th-15th December. Tickets cost £15 + booking fee – you can find out more, and book tickets, on the Pop Up Screens website.
Pop Up Screens | Crystal Palace Subway, Crystal Palace Parade, London SE19 2BA
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