Open Air Cinema FAQ’s

How to find us

The Garden is located behind the Mansion House in Calderstones Park, L18 3JB. You will need to enter via the side gate next to The Reader Bookshop.

What time can I arrive?

The Garden gates will open one hour before the event, but if you would like to come and soak in the atmosphere earlier, our Bookshop café will be open serving a selection snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Where can I sit?

This is an outdoor performance and the layout for this production is unreserved seating. Unless you have booked a premium ticket, please bring your own chairs (no high backed, please) , blankets and any other low-level accessories to sit on. If you require an accessible seat, please let us know in advance by emailing tickets@thereader.org.uk.

How long is the event?

The running time for each is available on our booking page. You can find this by visiting www.thereader.org.uk/summercinema2025.

Will the performance be cancelled due to bad weather? 

In the event of heavy rain or extreme wind, our team will assess whether the screening should be cancelled for comfort and safety. As the weather can change very quickly, we will not make this decision until the 1-2 hours before gates are due to open on the day of the screening. In the event of a cancellation, we will contact all bookers immediately by email and will offer you the option of a full refund or where possible, an exchange to another date.  

Where can I park? 

We have free, limited parking at Calderstones park and encourage cycling or public transport when possible. Bikes can be locked up outside the Mansion House.

Please use the entrance on Calderstones Road closest to Cromptons Lane. There are two car parks, one close to the entrance and one directly behind The Storybarn and Ice Cream Parlour. Accessible parking spaces are also limited so please consider saving parking spaces for those who need them.

You can find out more information about travelling and parking here.

Do I need to print my tickets?

We'll be scanning tickets on the gate so we ask that where possible, you show your tickets on a mobile or tablet to save on unnecessary printing. If you’re unable to find your ticket, don’t worry the Box Office team will have a list of names.

Ticket Terms and Conditions

View the conditions here.

Is the Garden accessible? 

Yes, we have a designated access area for those who need it. If you’d like to talk to a member of the team about your access requirements, please email tickets@thereader.org.uk and we'll be happy to accommodate.

Accessible toilets are located inside the Mansion house and accessible parking is also available.

Can I bring my own food and drink? 

We encourage you to support our charity by purchasing from The Reader. We will be serving up fresh pizza, hot dogs, nachos, ice cream and hot/cold drinks. You can pre order no later than 1 day before the film to beat the queues and save 10%.

We cannot allow the consumption of alcohol that is not bought on the premises in the Garden, however, you’re welcome to grab a drink from our pop-up bar where we’ll be accepting card payments only.

Can I smoke in the Garden?

Following customer feedback, if you wish to smoke or vape, please do so outside the Garden gate.

Can I purchase tickets on the door?

Ticket sales may be available on the day (subject to availability). We encourage you to book in advance from our website.

Can I bring my dog?