Film4 Summer Screen
Somerset House, The Strand
2-11 August, tickets £12.50
www.somersethouse.org.uk/film, 0870 4000 603

It is, according to its admirers, one of the best things to do in London in the summer, a unique experience that combines the magic of the movies with a stunning setting ... as long as the rain holds off.

The cinema under the stars returned last night to Somerset House for a season of al fresco screenings in what is arguably the world's most architecturally prestigious open air cinema.

Film4 Summer Screen, which kicked off with a showing of the comedy Knocked Up, sees the Fountain Court transformed into a full-scale cinema with state-of-the-art giant screen and surround sound. The courtyard can house up to 2,000 people who bring their own blankets, pillows and sun loungers - and, if they have any sense, raincoats, umbrellas and ponchos.

Jenny Waldman, programme consultant at Somerset House, said: "This is the third year and it has built each year, both in terms of the audience response and the industry response. We are really thrilled it's got off to such a good start this year. (It) has established itself as one of the great things to do for Londoners in the summer."

The season runs until 11 August, with showings of E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial and The Good, The Bad And The Ugly on the programme.

Among the audience last night was Aileen Geraghty, 38, managing director of a graphic design company. She said: "It is such an amazing venue. It is fantastic, and the juxtaposition of the modern film with something so traditional is great."

Also enjoying the screening was Julian Crichlow, 37, a studio manager, who said: "A lot of people rave on about it, so I thought I would try it for myself. The weather held and it was nice sitting, having a drink and a bite to eat." Kathryn Eales, 32, an account manager, said: "We thought it be a nice work night out and that we could grab a bit of summer while it's here. It is a great atmosphere, kind of like a festival and people seem to be enjoying it."

Her colleague Leo Sudea, 34, an account manager, said: "I am very impressed. I would have preferred grass to sit on though, as the cobbles are very hard. It is a different experience to relax and watch a film in the open air."

Lily McIvor, 29, a graphic designer, said: "I moved down from Scotland about six months ago and there is nothing like this up there. I really like the idea of being able to enjoy a film while enjoying being outside."

Alyn Lambert, 31, a senior graphic designer, said: "I've been to some other events here before and it is really nice. It is another thing to do and it's nice to be outside.

"There is quite a buzz in the air, with an atmosphere that can only really happen in a big city like London. It is a bit like a carnival."