LOCATION
Diaspora Calling takes place on Friday 7 August at The Milton Keynes National Bowl, MK5 8AA.
Clear signage and stewards will guide you throughout your arrival.
Arriving on foot
Use the North Gate on Chaffron Way.
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Arriving by Taxi or Private Hire
Taxi pick-up / drop-off: Chesney Wold
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Friends, family & private hire drop-off: Kelvin Drive
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Stopping on main roads or residential streets is not permitted.
Accessible Entrance
Located on Watling Street. Accessible parking is available next to this entrance — colour-coordinated to assist you.
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TRAVEL & PARKING
Car parking
Diaspora Calling uses a colour-coded car park system. Parking is available to pre-book now.
- No overnight parking — cars left after hours may be towed
- Parking is on grass and hard-standing; vehicles parked at owner’s risk
Accessible parking is available at the Watling Street entrance (Orange Car Park).
By train
Nearest station: Milton Keynes Central
Served by Avanti West Coast & London Northwestern Railway.
A safe pedestrian route (Leisure Route 51) takes approximately 20–25 minutes from MK Central to the Bowl. Allow extra time on departure due to crowds.
↗ Book train tickets via Avanti West Coast
Shuttle Buses
There will be large numbers of shuttle buses all day with regular departures from Milton Keynes Central.
Expect short waits during peak hours. Follow instructions from shuttle staff at all times.
Shuttle tickets will be available very soon.
OPENING TIMES
- Gates Open: 12:00
- Film Festival, Art Gallery, Diaspora Cuisine & Marketplace: 12:00
- Music Starts: 16:00
- Last Entry: 20:00
- Event Ends: 23:00
Can I re-enter the festival?
No re-entry once you leave the festival. Plan ahead and bring everything you need for the day.
Wristbands must stay on — tampered bands = no entry
TICKETS
Do I need to print my ticket?
You do not need to print your ticket. Download it onto your phone or into your wallet app before arrival.
Signal can be slow at peak times — save it offline in advance.
What is the age policy?
Diaspora Calling is strictly a 14+ event. Anyone aged 14–17 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. No one under 14 will be permitted entry.
WHAT CAN I BRING
Permitted items:
- Bags — max 30cm × 21cm × 15cm (A4 size). Large bags are not permitted.
- Sealed water — 500ml max. Empty reusable bottles allowed, but must be empty on arrival.
- Blankets — for sitting or staying warm later.
- Medication — must match your ID and be supported by a prescription or doctor’s note.
- Phone power banks
- Sunscreen — non-aerosol only.
Prohibited items:
- Alcohol
- Outside food (not permitted)
- Illegal drugs / Nitrous Oxide / “legal highs”
- Liquids (except sealed water)
- Metal bottles
- Glass bottles / jars
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Aerosols over 100ml
- Umbrellas with pointed ends
- Perfume / aftershave
- Pyros / flares / fireworks / smoke bombs
- Laser pens
- Professional cameras (detachable lenses, tripods, rigs)
- Audio recording equipment
- Drones
- Personal vehicles (bikes, scooters, hoverboards, skateboards)
- Marketing materials
- High-visibility clothing (non-staff)
- Large bags (must be A4 size max)
- Camping equipment
- Animals (registered assistance dogs only — email in advance)
Not sure about something? Email hello@jbmmusic.com to confirm.
FOOD & DRINK
A wide range of food traders will be on site, including vegan and vegetarian options.
No outside food or drinks are permitted, except sealed water (500ml max).
PLEASE NOTE: The festival is entirely cashless
- Bars accept card / contactless only
- Food traders accept card / contactless only
Bring a charged phone and a backup power bank.
FOR FULL FAQS AND TO DOWNLOAD TRAVEL & ACCESSIBILITY GUIDES – CLICK HERE
