Bath Film Festival returns to the city from 16-25 October, bringing more than 50 films, special events and immersive cinema experiences to venues across Bath.
Now in its 36th year, the festival will feature new releases, award-winning international films, documentaries, filmmaker Q&As and live performances, alongside opportunities for young people interested in pursuing careers in the film industry.
Organised by FilmBath, the festival aims to bring audiences and filmmakers together while introducing cinema enthusiasts to films and stories they might not otherwise discover.
Opportunities for young people
Among the highlights is an Industry Day: Careers in Film event at The Egg on Tuesday 20 October, running from 10am-5pm. The event forms part of the festival’s Behind the Lens programme, which explores the filmmaking industry and the opportunities available to those interested in working in film.
The festival also includes a series of events celebrating young people in sport through its Rebel Moves programme.
On Saturday 17 October, Bath Pavilion will host a special screening of Whip It, accompanied by a roller derby demonstration from Bath Roller Derby. The coming-of-age film follows a teenager who discovers confidence and independence through the sport.
On Friday 23 October, Bath City Football Club will host a screening of Bend It Like Beckham, accompanied by a panel discussion, while Polite Society will be screened at Widcombe Social Club on Sunday 25 October, alongside a live martial arts demonstration.
Cinema beyond the screen
The wider programme includes special screenings in some of Bath’s best-known venues, including The Holburne Museum, No. 1 Royal Crescent and Komedia.
The festival will also host its annual IMDb Awards on Monday 19 October, celebrating emerging filmmaking and screenwriting talent.
Alongside established and emerging filmmakers, the festival continues its commitment to championing female and non-binary filmmakers, with more than half of this year’s programme carrying the F-Rating classification.
With films exploring themes of family, identity, belonging, resilience and change, the festival offers a broad programme for cinema lovers, including older teenagers and young adults.
Bath Film Festival runs from Friday 16 to Sunday 25 October 2026. Film classifications and age restrictions vary, so families should check individual events before booking.
For the full programme and tickets, visit Bath Box Office.
