Summer by the River | Outdoor cinema and live music by London Bridge
It’s always nice to spend summer by the river…
…particularly if that river also has food stalls, pop-up bars, live music and outdoor movie screenings.
We don’t claim to be mind readers, but this might have been what the organisers behind Summer by the River were thinking when they set up this free annual festival. From June onwards, they’re back to replicate the formula that’s served them so well over the years – bundling up all those beloved outdoor activities and unpacking them across three locations around London Bridge (The Scoop, Hay’s Galleria and The Pier), for three months over the summer.
This year you can expect a programme of outdoor music curated by the likes of indie label Fierce Panda and the talent scouts at BBC Introducing; raucous nights out courtesy of Hip Hop Karaoke and Peng Femme Jam; family circus & theatre; mass quiz nights; live choirs; plus the odd bit of tango dancing and lively Irish jigs.
Summer by the River also hosts one of the most popular free outdoor cinemas in London in The Scoop, a dramatic concrete amphitheatre with space to squeeze in around 1000. Every Tuesday, you’ll be able to take in films like Barbie and Back To The Future, all in the shadow of Tower Bridge – which at night, looks rather nice all lit up.
There’s no need to bring any cash to these or book a ticket in advance, as they’re completely free. Arriving a little early might help secure a spot, though. The screen will also show Wimbledon when the tennis starts, and the Olympics, once that does too.
Helping to keep punters hydrated and suitably fuelled, Summer by the River also has pop-up bars on-site, and some street food too. We know exactly what you’re thinking.
This is the perfect (and cost-effective) summer date idea…
NOTE: Summer by the River is running throughout the summer until 1st September. There are a range of free events going on – you can see the full programme HERE.
Summer by the River | The Scoop, London Bridge, SE1 2AA
For everything else going on this summer? We’ve tried our best to squeeze it all into your monthly agenda…