New major, open-air cinema to open in Powderham Castle in Exeter this August

The UK’s largest outdoor cinema tour is returning to Exeter this summer, with three nights of open-air film screenings set against the backdrop of Powderham Castle.

Adventure Cinema will bring its 2026 tour to the historic estate from 14 to 16 August 2026, transforming the castle grounds into a giant open-air cinema as part of a nationwide programme featuring more than 300 shows across 57 locations.

The touring cinema, which opens its UK season on 7 May, promises its “most immersive” programme yet, combining blockbuster films, sing-a-long favourites, family screenings and themed disco nights in stately homes, castles and gardens across the country.

Audiences in Exeter can expect a mix of musical sing-a-longs, cult classics and family-friendly titles. 

The 2026 line-up includes 

• Wicked Sing-A-Long
• Grease Sing-A-Long
• The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long
• Jurassic Park 
• Back To The Future 
• Dirty Dancing
• Star Wars: A New Hope
• Mean Girls

Family audiences are catered for with titles including Bing And His Friends at The Cinema, The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Encanto Sing-A-Long.

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Music fans can also book for themed event screenings, including Mamma Mia! ExtrABBAganza – combining the film with an ABBA disco – and the new Queen Outdoor Cinema Celebration, which pairs Bohemian Rhapsody with a Queen-themed disco under the stars.

While the full film schedule for Powderham Castle is due to be confirmed, organisers say each venue will host a tailored selection from the national programme. 

Tickets go on sale from Thursday 26 February, starting at £9.80.

Adventure Cinema’s wider tour will visit high-profile venues including Chatsworth House, Althorp House, Kew Gardens and Eden Project. 

Some screenings will take place at original filming locations, offering fans the chance to watch films such as Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility in the very settings where scenes were shot.

Organisers say the experience is designed to be more than just a film screening, encouraging guests to bring blankets and picnics, with on-site food and drink options available at many venues. 

Events typically open before sunset, allowing visitors to enjoy the surroundings before the film begins.

The Exeter dates form part of a busy summer events calendar at Powderham Castle, which regularly hosts concerts, festivals and large-scale outdoor gatherings. 

Further details of the specific films screening in Exeter are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.