London’s festive season officially kicks off as the much-loved Backyard Cinema returns—bigger, bolder, and more magical than ever. Launching an all-new Christmas immersive experience, the alternative cinema pioneers are bringing full West End theatrical flair to their 2025 winter season.
If you love festive films, immersive theatre, and Christmas done at full volume, this year’s production is set to be one of London’s must-see holiday events.
A Full West End-Quality Christmas Spectacular
Celebrating iconic Christmas classics like Elf, Home Alone, Love Actually, and The Holiday, Backyard Cinema’s new production fuses film, live music, cabaret, and theatre into one unforgettable experience.
The event is directed by acclaimed Creative Director Stuart Glover—known for productions including Speakeasy UK Tour, The SpongeBob Musical, Madagascar The Musical, and West End showcases featuring Strictly Come Dancing stars Karen and Gorka.
Glover transforms the traditional cinema format into a theatrical journey, immersing guests in festive storytelling before they even take their seats.
A Magical New Venue in London Bridge
Running from 26 November to 31 December, Christmas at Backyard Cinema takes over a Victorian warehouse on Tanner Street, London Bridge—its most central location to date.
Just moments from Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, and Tower Bridge, the venue has been reimagined as the breathtaking Enchanted Forest Theatre. Expect towering trees, 20 tonnes of real forest bark, hidden cabins, themed bars, and secret performances unfolding throughout the space.
Step Into a Living, Breathing Winter Wonderland
This isn’t just cinema—this is Christmas as a fully immersive spectacle.
From the moment guests step inside, they’re free to wander through a winter world brought to life by West End performers, live musicians, and festive acrobats.
This year’s cast features:
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AJ Jenks (The Buddy Holly Story, Saturday Night Fever)
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Joel Priest (Between the Sheets)
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Eve Maidwell (A Christmas Carol)
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Aaron Bladen (Cinderella)
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Madeleine Wilshire (Alice in Wonderland)
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Viral sensation Matt Kent (@iammattkent)
Across three enchanted spaces, guests will experience surprise performances, curated cocktails, and show-stopping vocals before settling into the final screening room.
Explore Three Unique Christmas Worlds
The Christmas Cabaret Room
A West End-quality cabaret filled with live renditions of beloved Christmas hits, complete with vibrant table service and theatrical flair.
The Enchanted Forest
A magical indoor forest made of towering trees, real bark underfoot, hidden cabins, themed bars, and surprise performances around every corner.
The Cosy Forest Cinema
A vintage-style cinema where it snows before each screening—offering the perfect finale to the festive journey.
Director & Founder on the 2025 Experience
Creative Director Stuart Glover says:
“We’re creating a truly theatrical experience… designed to surprise, delight, and completely immerse audiences in the spirit of the season.”
Founder & CEO Dominic Davies adds:
“It’s been three years since our last Christmas show in London… This isn’t just a return. It’s a reinvention.”
This Year’s Festive Film Line-up
Backyard Cinema’s Christmas programme includes heart-warming favourites:
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Elf (2003)
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Home Alone (1990)
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Love Actually (2003)
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
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The Holiday (2006)
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Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
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The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
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The Grinch (2018)
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The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
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It’s a Wonderful Life
With five screenings daily—including family-friendly matinees—there’s something for every festive mood.
Location: 49 Tanner St, London SE1 3PL
Dates: 26 November – 31 December 2025 (closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day)
Showtimes: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
Duration: Approx. 2hr 40mins (varies by film)
Every ticket includes an hour of immersive entertainment before the film begins—making it perfect for date nights, family outings, friend groups, and office socials.
About Backyard Cinema
Founded from a humble DIY cinema in a backyard, the company has grown into one of the UK’s leading immersive cinema brands. With over half a million visitors to date, Backyard Cinema continues to reinvent what a movie night can be.
Learn more or book tickets at the official site: Backyard Cinema
