I sent Katija a screenshot, ‘Pretty Woman’ is her and her hubbies favourite movie. She kept saying they needed some time out. This was perfect.
Up until she replied to my screenshot with. ‘Yes Please. Book us in’
Well that had me stumped. I had no intention of going.
I booked us in
Arriving at Prestwold Hall
Prestwold Hall sits in Loughborough, a stunning Grade I stately home, proudly on 2,500 acres of parklands in the heart of the Leicestershire.
As we arrived, the sun was starting to dip, casting a warm golden hue over the lawns of Prestwold Hall. The weather was a little chilly for the month of May, but we were grateful the rain was kept at bay. The stately home, with its beautiful architecture and sprawling gardens, provided the perfect backdrop for an outdoor cinema experience.
The atmosphere was beyond what I had imagined. It was our first time in an outdoor cinema, but experienced outdoor movie goers were walking in with their mats and picnic baskets under their arms, ready for a family fun day movie night. (I must remember all this on my next visit.)
I was really impressed with the organisers as they had gone above and beyond to create an inviting environment. Twinkling fairy lights were strung between trees, A guitarist on entrance welcomed us in, Food trucks lined the pathway, offering gourmet popcorn, artisanal pizzas, nachos and chocolate strawberries. This was above and beyond what I had imagined.
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My Attempt at Outdoor Cinema
I had come prepared. Of course I had come prepared, its what I do. Plus it was date night, my treat so I had to make it the most perfect date night.
I prepared hot water bottles for each of us (we are in the Uk, the weather is unpredictable no matter what season), blankets and hand warmers. I also arranged a cinema meal box, which I ordered through a friend, which had sandwiches, fruit, nachos, biscuit and grazing type foods.
Lastly we had chaiiwala tea in the warmers which kept us warm throughout, our neighbours were so fascinated, luckily we had tea to go round. Nothing beats sharing karak chaii with other tea enthusiasts.
And Katija obviously came through too. Tik toks viral tubs full of sweets. Well that was me done for the day! Beyond Happy
The date could not be more perfect.
As the sun started to set, we grabbed some chocolate strawberries – because why wouldn’t you? and settled down on our seats ( I had opted for chairs at an additional rate, but you can bring mats and settle on the floor or even bring your own chairs if you wished ). Time for the movie to start, and the count down started. Everyone settled down, tucked into their seats and the air become a silent murmer.
Watching Julia Roberts and Richard Gere navigate through their love and denial on a huge screen with the chilly May air and the stars twinkling above was a experience I’ve probably never had. There’s something undeniably magical about watching a film, and a classic film at that underneath the open sky, tucked into blankets and warmed up by hot water bottles, with chocolate strawberries and a chaiiwala.
I mean ill say it again. Perfection.
Outdoor Cinema: Would I go again?
If you ever get the chance to experience an outdoor cinema at Prestwold Hall, I can’t recommend it enough. The combination of stunning surroundings, classic films, and the joy of community makes for an unforgettable night. Whether you’re a fan of Pretty Woman or simply looking for a new way to enjoy the great outdoors, this is an experience that should not be missed.
I’m looking forward to the next one.
So grab your friends, pack a picnic, get your blanket and hot water bottle, order that chaiiwala, and keep an eye out for upcoming outdoor cinema events. Trust me, it’s a night you’ll cherish long after the credits roll.
Have you been to an outdoor cinema? Where did you go and how was your experience?
Click here to see upcoming events at Prestwold Hall
Click here for Adventure cinema
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Love and Regards
