London’s Screen Archives enables Londoners see their past come alive on film. Managed by Film London, we are a unique network of historic film collections that cares for, collects and screens heritage film across the city. Together we preserve London’s rich film heritage from feature films to home movies, public information films, newsreels, and records of the capital’s many different industries.
This film is part of Free
Picnic in Wanstead
From the first moment the couples arrive at the country pub, this quirky film by amateur filmmaker Sydney Martin is full of character and charm
From the collection of:
Overview
Two couples pull up at a country pub in an open top roadster, the driver enjoys a pint and a smoke whilst another gentleman attempts to photograph a local church, ably assisted by his female companion who reminds him that his camera needs film! Dining alfresco amidst the cows and cars are a mixed group, properly attired though at least sleeves are rolled up. The picnic itself is a grand affair with china plates and bowls, though one guest's table manners leaves a lot to be desired.
This film is from the collection of Redbridge Museum, Local Studies and Archives
Related
Watch for free
Demonstration of the Churches Demonstration of the Churches
Non-Fiction 1916 1 mins Silent Location: Wanstead
Top-hatted dignitaries turn out in force for this service held to honour Wanstead locals serving in the armed forces.
Watch for free
Getting it Back: The Story of Cymande - Q&A Getting it Back: The Story of Cymande - Q&A
Inside Film 2024 22 mins
The director of a documentary about British funk pioneers Cymande joins the band at BFI Southbank to talk about the film.
Watch for free
The West Case The West Case
Action and Adventure 1923 28 mins Silent Location: Tilbury
Plotting world domination, Devil Doctor Fu-Manchu steals plans for a new aero-torpedo in this earliest surviving thrill-a-minute serial instalment.
Watch for free
Enter the Scala!!! Enter the Scala!!!
Inside Film 2024 16 mins
Filmmakers Jane Giles and Ali Catterall discuss their documentary Scala!!!, revisiting the legendary and inspirational cinema venue and some of the most notorious films that screened there.
Watch for free
Smith Smith
Charity appeal 1939 10 mins
Long thought lost, this Powell-directed promotional short for a veteran’s charity was only rediscovered in 2003.
Watch for free
An Airman's Letter to His Mother An Airman's Letter to His Mother
Documentary 1941 6 mins
A poignant, stirring letter from a recently deceased pilot to his mother is read by John Gielgud.
Watch for free
The NHS75 Celebration The NHS75 Celebration
Short documentary 2023 3 mins
Former Bristol Poet Laureate, Miles Chambers reads a poem specially commissioned for the 75th anniversary of the NHS.