Outdoor cinema and bar opens at Westfield Shepherd’s Bush as London gets set for sizzling August

By Owen Sheppard, Local Democracy Reporter

A huge al fresco cinema and bar opened for the first time outside the Westfield London shopping centre yesterday.

With forecasters predicting a hot and sunny August, Westfield Square in Shepherd’s Bush has been transformed with temporary green lawns.

White circles will be marked out for families or groups to relax in with deckchairs while watching the big screen.

The ‘W12 Bar &Film Club’ will show two films a day from Thursdays to Sundays, with summer drinks and pizza on sale from Westwood in Ariel Way.

Its opening day featured a 3pm showing of Zootropolis, followed by Moulin Rouge.

Over the coming weeks the cinema, which was granted an event licence by Hammersmith and Fulham council, will show Finding Dory, Moana, 10 Things I Hate About You and WALL-E.

The event’s managers say all film viewings will take place “in line with government guidelines for social distancing”.

Deckchairs and picnic tables will be positioned across the outdoor area and white circles, or “bubbles”, have been marked out on the turf for parties of varying sizes.

Jacinta Rowsell, general manager of Westfield London, said: “Bar W12 & Film Club is a great addition to Westfield Square and a new destination to enjoy socialising safely in West London.

“We have great food and a fantastic line-up of films for visitors to Westfield London, including some Disney favourites.

“With deck chairs and large lawns for lounging, this sunny space will allow visitors to enjoy themselves and have fun with friends and family in a safe environment.”

Pictured top: An outdoor cinema and bar is now open at Westfield London