‘The Beach’ is back for the summer, at leading shopping destination; centre:mk from 17 July – 31 August 2026, with a ‘Great British Seaside’ theme. Middleton Hall (outside John Lewis and partners) has undergone a transformation into the UK’s largest ‘beach’ in an indoor shopping destination, made up of 102 tonnes of sand!
The FREE to enter attraction has become a firm favourite amongst visitors who have been eagerly enquiring about its return and is back with all the usual attractions plus some new additions.
‘The Beach’ this year has brought in all the wonderful classics you’d hope to find at the great British seaside including free Punch & Judy shows, as well as deckchairs and seating areas for families and children to play in the sand and soak up the atmosphere. There are also bungees, train rides and even an indoor rollercoaster plus pop-up stalls from the centre’s retailers to add to the fun.
Kevin Duffy, Centre Director said, “We are delighted to be able to bring the beach back again for the summer holidays. It’s so well loved by families and a really fun experience for families looking for somewhere to go with their children. It’s completely free to enter and there are free activities alongside the rides. The best part is that it is the biggest indoor beach in a shopping destination in the UK, so families can enjoy a day out to the beach without worrying about the great British weather!”
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8 min read
We’re about to head into the longest school holidays of the year, six weeks of having the kids at home and trying work out how you can occupy them.
We’ve pulled together loads of useful information into one place so you don’t have to panic, there’s ideas for FREE and low cost activities, things to do indoors when the weather doesn’t play ball, or activities outdoors for when the sun shines. We’ll be adding to this blog over the next few weeks, so make sure you check back.
The FREE indoor beach (pictured right) is the perfect day out with your little ones with hours of fun for the whole family, plus check out the Punch & Judy shows and beach games. There are also fun fair rides alongside with a Helter Skelter, Trampoline Bungees, Shark Roller Coaster, Mini Train and Hook-a-Duck – prices for rides start at £3 per person.
Safari in the City at Midsummer Place – 18 July to 31 August
Families can enjoy a FREE interactive trail throughout the centre, discovering incredible animals, collecting embossings and learning fascinating wildlife facts.
Perfect for little explorers and animal lovers of all ages, this summer-long adventure brings the excitement of the safari to the heart of Milton Keynes. Complete the trail for the chance to unlock an exciting reward, with some wild prizes up for grabs.
Summer Replay movie screenings returning to MK Gallery Cinema throughout the school holidays. Perfect for the whole family, the programme features a spectacular lineup of the latest and greatest children’s films, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages including Hoppers, The Magic Faraway Tree, The Sheep Detectives and more!
Tickets are just £4 per person – and you can bring your own snacks and drinks.
Meet Elmer, the patchwork Elephant who celebrates kindness, colour and being yourself. This summer, he’s bringing a burst of creativity to Milton Keynes with 12 uniquely designed Elmer sculptures (pictured right) for you and your family to find within the city centre. The trail is FREE to explore, you can pickup a trails sheet at local venues or head to the online map.
Join The Stables for a fun-filled day of creativity for children and their grown-ups! Enjoy Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show with performances at 11.30am & 2.30pm, tickets just £7 per person, then get creative with free art and craft activities before and after each show.
This year, The Parks Trust have a huge programme of FREE or low cost events to occupy the family with Parkland Play sessions, Open Mornings at Howe Park Wood, their Golden Summer Picnic, a Family Bat Walk and more.
Calling all future photographers! Ready to get behind the camera and start snapping like a pro with FREE photography workshop for young people at Unity Place. Beginner friendly, hands-on learning with just 10 places per session. Ages 7–12 | 11am. Ages 13–17 | 1pm. Booking essential.
The FREE Room on the Broom activity trail is open all year round at Salcey Forest for you and your family to explore, but on 31 July & 1 August they are holding two special days with meet & greets from Witch herself, plus loads of other FREE fun.
Swap screen time for adventure time at Willen Lake with watersports, Treetop Extreme, crazy golf, Splash n Play and so much more. They have a giant FREE play area plus safe pathways for cycling and walking. Adventure starts here!
If the World Cup got you in the mood for some live football, MK Dons’ first home game of the new League One season takes place at Stadium MK on 22 August against Huddersfield Town. Tickets start at just £8 for under 12s.
On 27 August, the home of the WW2 codebreakers welcomes the Cambridge Touring Company and their production of The Sword in the Stone. The retelling of this classic legend is for every generation, tickets from £14.50. Under 3s are FREE.
Take your family on a treetop adventure with towering trails and ziplines high in the ancient woodland canopy, a trip to Go Ape delivers fresh air, big smiles, and unforgettable moments. Tickets from £20.95 suitable for 4+. Pictured right.
Discover family rides, attractions and entertainment at Gulliver’s Land Theme Park, Dinosaur & Farm Park, and themed accommodation. Visit for the day, stay the night or make it a weekend adventure. Enjoy more than 25 rides across 6 themed areas.
There are over 343 km of dedicated bridleways, footpaths and cycle tracks across Milton Keynes to explore. We have 15 lakes,11 miles of canal and an abundance of open green spaces, parkland, woods and play areas. Get out of your bikes and discover something new about your area, why not take a picnic along or head to one of the many independent cafes on route.
Packed with big energy activities and delicious treats, Xscape Milton Keynes is the perfect place to keep the kids entertained. From thrilling indoor skydiving at iFLY and real snow action at Snozone, to burning off energy at Gravity Active and going head-to-head at Hollywood Bowl for a bit of family competition. Or maybe putt your way through Volcano Falls Adventure Golf or race against the clock at Escape Hunt.
Throw in arcade excitement at Funstation and the 16-screen Cineworld – whatever the weather, there’s something for everyone.
The smash-hit West End production of Annie comes to Milton Keynes Theatre this July starring Claire Sweeney at the tyrannical Miss Hannigan. Including the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!
Summer Fun for Families at Bletchley Park – 1 to 31 August
Discover Bletchley Park – the place where ordinary people came together to do something extraordinary. Enjoy exciting activities and interactive tours for the whole family throughout August to find out more about what happened here. And remember under 8s go FREE.
They offer Family Guided Tours, FREE drop in art activities, Secret Mission activity booklet (£1) and a FREE multi-media tour.
Looking for a fun, educational, and hands-on day out for the whole family? Look no further than Milton Keynes Museum – the perfect summer holiday activity. They have a additional activities running on specific days:
Trunk Tales: Cabinet of Curiosities – Oracles of Oddities: 5 – 7 August, midday and 1.30pm
Join Patch, Pebble and Key for a magical storytelling adventure featuring folklore, music, audience participation, scavenger hunts and family fun. Presented by the Black Sheep Collective.
Teddy Bears’ Picnic: 12 – 14 August
Bring your favourite teddy to the Museum for our Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Enjoy storytelling, a bear hunt trail, teddy zipline, crafts, games, competitions and prizes.
Based at the Kingston Centre, Climb Quest MK (pictured right) is a perfect indoor activity to challenge the kids and get them to burn off some energy. Plus, they have a Summer Pass offer for just £37 per climber for all summer – must be purchased by 31 July. Valid for ‘Weekend and Holiday Climb’ sessions taking place between 11/7/26 – 1/9/26.
This summer, your money goes even further, as families can benefit from the Government’s Summer Savings Scheme. Right up until 1 September, you’ll automatically save:
12.5% on children’s admission tickets 12.5% on children’s meals
Book your next day of play and start making summer memories.
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2 min read
Scouting For Girls, known for their infectious anthems like “She’s So Lovely” and “Heartbeat, will takeover Campbell Park in Milton Keynes as headliners at The MK Weekender 14-16 August.
The three day event promises to be the “ultimate open-air party” with a high-energy celebration of the decades that defined the dancefloor. There will be live music, legendary DJs and festival vibes in the heart of Central Milton Keynes.
British pop icons Scouting For Girls are all set to deliver a massive feel-good Saturday night but the lineup also features:
Martin Kemp: The legendary Spandau Ballet star returns with his electrifying 80s DJ set, spinning the biggest hits from the era of neon lights and iconic beats.
Charlie Hedges: BBC Radio 1’s powerhouse DJ will take to the stage with a high-energy set of dance hits guaranteed to keep the crowd moving.
Chris Gregg: Horizon Radio’s favorite will be on hand to get the party started and set the tone for an incredible night.
One of the UK’s most influential underground club brands is set to return at the event as Ultra Vegas will celebrate its 30th anniversary with MK Weekender, taking over Campbell Park on 14 & 15 August, bringing together orchestral Ibiza, headline DJs and live bands in a major open-air event rooted in the city where it began.
Organisers have also confirmed Willen Hospice as the event’s official charity partner, with a percentage of proceeds from ticket sales supporting specialist care for local families through UltraVegas’ Donate2Dance initiative.
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3 min read
Families are being invited to go wild this summer as Midsummer Place launches its brand-new FREE Safari in the City experience this July.
Running from 18 July until 30 August, the exciting summer installation will transform the shopping centre into an immersive safari-themed trail, featuring ten striking animal sculptures positioned throughout the centre for families to discover.
The collection includes a gorilla, zebra, giraffe, lion, rhino and elephant, with many of the species featured directly linked to animals that can be seen in real life at Woburn Safari Park, the exclusive partner for the campaign.
Saturday 1 August
The main event, Safari Live, will take place on Saturday 1 August, when visitors will be able to experience even more safari-themed excitement:
Expect a packed programme of free family entertainment, including:
See the animal kingdom come to life through stunning animatronic creatures, playful puppetry and loveable – slightly nutty – rangers!
Interactive workshops with Woburn Safari Park
Free face painting from 12pm to 3pm
More events over summer
There will be plenty of lively entertainment designed to keep little adventurers engaged throughout the summer holidays. Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of free family entertainment including ‘Jungle is Massive’ disco parties hosted by the ever-popular Ragdolly Annas from 12pm to 3pm on Friday 24 and Friday 31 July, alongside Friday 21 and Friday 28 August.
Join Ranger Chris from Horizon Radio most Thursdays throughout the school holidays for Monkey Madness, a series of high-energy, interactive family sessions featuring games, music, challenges and plenty of monkey-themed mayhem!
Woburn Safari Park’s team will be in the Boulevard, inspiring the next generation of animal conservationists with interactive sensory workshops on Thursday 30 July and Saturday 1 August between 11am and 4pm.
Abigail Crowley, Marketing Manager at Woburn Safari Park, said: “We’re thrilled to join Midsummer Place in bringing a little bit of safari magic to Milton Keynes this summer. The trail is a wonderful way for families to discover, learn, and have fun together, and we’re proud to help share the stories of the animals who call Woburn Safari Park home.”
As part of the collaboration, Woburn Safari Park is offering an exclusive Midsummer Place deal where adults can become the kids – literally. Woburn Safari Park is offering adult tickets for the price of a child! Vouchers can be found on the Safari in the City trail leaflets available in centre throughout the holidays. Terms apply.
Kirsty McGiff, Marketing Manager at Midsummer Place, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring Safari in the City to Midsummer Place this summer. We wanted to create a free, fun and interactive experience that gives families a reason to spend quality time together during the school holidays. Our partnership with Woburn Safari Park adds a fantastic educational element to the trail, allowing children to learn more about these incredible animals while enjoying a safari adventure right here in the heart of Milton Keynes. We can’t wait to welcome visitors and see them explore everything the experience has to offer.”
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3 min read
After more than 25 years The Victoria Wood Estate, in association with Phil McIntyre Live and Sustainable Entertainment, announces the return of the iconic Victoria Wood sitcom dinnerladies – coming to Milton Keynes Theatre Tue 16 – Sat 20 Mar 2027. The original TV characters will reunite for a brand-new stage adaptation by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by double Olivier-award winner Sean Foley.
The new show features a storyline inspired by the beloved original TV sitcom episodes and characters. crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.
Originally created, written and starring comedy legend Victoria Wood, dinnerladies ran for two acclaimed series and 16 episodes between 1998 and 2000, winning widespread critical plaudits and a devoted audience for its warmth, wit and brilliantly observed characters. Winning a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000, the sitcom was set in the canteen of fictional Manchester factory HWD Components, and followed the lives, friendships and workplace dramas of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day.
Now, audiences will once again be reunited with the unforgettable world of dinnerladies, and the affectionate portrayal of everyday working British life. This new adaptation will feature all the much-loved characters that made the show a huge British classic with a lasting place in comedy history, including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle, Philippa and Stan. Whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering it for the first time, dinnerladies serves up a hilarious night out packed with heart, nostalgia and plenty of surprises.
The Victoria Wood Estate, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the joy of Victoria Wood’s much-loved classic dinnerladies back to the nation after more than 25 years. We hope that this new stage adaptation by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by Sean Foley – featuring a story inspired by the original TV series – will take theatre goers across the UK straight back to the delights of the canteen and characters they grew to love.”
Speaking about joining the production, Les Dennis added: “I’m so thrilled to be on board with this new production of Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies. I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria – she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces. I was always such a fan of her – both as a person, and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive. I’m the first cast member to be announced as Stan, and I can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing dinnerladies characters to life – they’re all such fantastic roles. I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat after hearing director Sean Foley’s plans for this tour!”
LISTINGS
Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies
Performances: Tue 16 – Sat 20 Mar 2027
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*
*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge
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3 min read
How many adventures can you fit into one summer holiday? At Xscape Milton Keynes, you’ll find action-packed family days out, exciting experiences, great places to eat, and blockbuster films, all under one roof.
Whether you’re planning a full day of family fun, looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays, or searching for things to do in Milton Keynes this summer, Xscape has something for everyone. Better still, you can book activities online in advance, helping you secure your preferred times and make the most of your visit.
School holiday adventures start here
Make this summer one to remember with activities the whole family can enjoy.
Take on the challenge at Escape Hunt, where you’ll work together to solve clues and crack puzzles before time runs out. Head to Funstation for family-friendly arcade fun, packed with games, prizes, and entertainment for all ages.
Looking for a little friendly competition? Hit the lanes at Hollywood Bowl or putt your way around the tropical landscapes of Volcano Falls Adventure Golf. If adventure is more your style, scale new heights at Gravity Rocks, experience immersive virtual worlds at InstaVR Arena, or hit the real snow slopes at Snozone for an experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Ready to take family fun to new heights? Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, where you can feel the sensation of freefall without ever jumping from a plane. Even better, this summer you can enjoy 15% off First-Time Flyer experiences and Group & Party bookings with code DROP15.
Be sure to book in advance to take advantage of the offer and secure your preferred session during the busy school holiday period.
Refuel between adventures
After all that excitement, you’ll be ready to recharge.
Enjoy family favourites at PizzaExpress, spice things up at Nando’s, or tuck into hand-breaded chicken and crowd-pleasing sides at Slim Chickens. Many of our restaurants offer dedicated children’s menus, making it easy to find something everyone will enjoy.
Looking for even more value from your day out? Hollywood Bowl’s Family Feast is a great way to combine bowling with food, while family-friendly dining options across the centre help make summer days out even more enjoyable.
Whether you’re stopping for lunch between activities, grabbing dinner before a film, or treating the family after a day of adventure, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Catch the biggest films of the summer
Round off your visit with a trip to Cineworld and experience the biggest films of the season on the big screen.
This summer’s blockbuster line-up is packed with family favourites, epic adventures, and must-see cinematic events. Some of the most anticipated releases include:
Toy Story 5
Supergirl
Moana
Spider-Man
The Odyssey
With major releases expected to be popular throughout the school holidays, booking your cinema tickets in advance is recommended to secure the best seats and showtimes.
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3 min read
Diaspora Calling! has unveiled the final additions to its landmark UK debut, including neo-soul pioneer Erykah Badu, UK rap icon Giggs, Nigerian Afrobeats star Fireboy DML and acclaimed comedian and cultural commentator Dave Chappelle who will host the event.
Taking place at Milton Keynes National Bowl on Friday 7th August 2026, the festival is headlined by the legendary Ms. Lauryn Hill, in what remains her only confirmed UK performance of 2026. The newly announced artists join an already powerful lineup led by Ms. Lauryn Hill, who will reunite with Wyclef Jean to perform “The Score” in celebration of its 30th anniversary, alongside YG Marley and Zion Marley, completing a cross-generational programme rooted in music, culture and diaspora connection.
Originally conceived by Ms. Lauryn Hill in 2016, Diaspora Calling! was created as a music and arts platform celebrating the creativity, culture and shared histories of the African diaspora. Beginning with a curated art exhibition and live performance in Brooklyn, the initiative has evolved across multiple formats while maintaining its focus on artistic expression, cultural exchange and collective experience.
Joining the bill is Erykah Badu, one of the most influential and singular artists of her generation. Widely recognised for redefining neo soul and blending jazz, R&B and spiritual expression, Badu’s artistry and live performances have made her a revered cultural figure whose influence extends far beyond music.
Representing the UK is Giggs, one of the most influential figures in British rap and a pioneering force in UK music. Renowned for his distinctive flow, uncompromising lyricism and lasting impact on the UK hip-hop landscape, Giggs has helped shape a generation of artists while building a catalogue that continues to resonate across audiences. His addition further strengthens Diaspora Calling!’s celebration of cultural legacy, artistic excellence and the global reach of Black music.
Further broadening the festival’s global reach is Fireboy DML, one of the defining voices in contemporary African music. The Nigerian superstar has become a leading figure in the global rise of Afrobeats, earning international acclaim through chart-topping releases, acclaimed projects and collaborations while continuing to showcase African music and culture to audiences around the world.
Lastly, adding a further dimension to the programme is Dave Chappelle, the award winning comedian and storyteller whose work has become synonymous with sharp social commentary and fearless cultural observation. On hosting duties, his appearance reflects Diaspora Calling!’s wider creative vision and longstanding commitment to dialogue, perspective and shared cultural experience.
Together, the completed lineup reinforces Diaspora Calling! as more than a concert, presenting a large scale cultural gathering shaped by legacy, innovation and diaspora storytelling.
Set against the backdrop of one of the UK’s most iconic outdoor venues, Milton Keynes National Bowl will host one main stage alongside a full food village celebrating diverse flavours and traders. With its large scale capacity, high spec production and accessible location, the site provides a fitting home for Diaspora Calling!’s historic UK debut.
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2 min read
A journalist and author from Milton Keynes is writing a definitive history of the Milton Keynes Bowl – and she wants your memories for inclusion.
Sammy Jones has been a journalist in the new city for more than three decades, specialising in music and entertainment.
In 2021 she delivered the hugely successful book, Milton Keynes – Wired For Sound, which explored the history of the local music scene.
This time the spotlight is focused solely on the 65,000 capacity venue which has welcomed monsters of rock including Queen, Foo Fighters and Black Sabbath, aces David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Take That and Robbie Williams and dance deliverers Swedish House Mafia and Pendulum.
“It is such an important venue, not just locally, but nationally and internationally,” Sammy said, “Many of the artists who have played there have fond specific memories, and the venue is a beacon in Milton Keynes. A book charting its history, and bringing together memories from those artists who have graced its stage, was long overdue.
“But the Bowl is very much our venue, and I want to share the memories and anecdotes of city residents who remember shows there for specific reasons – maybe you met the love of your life while watching Green Day, remember getting plastered in the mud bath when U2 played, or perhaps you got so drunk that you don’t remember anything at all!
“Whatever you recall, I would love you to share with me.”
Sammy – who also runs the Milton Keynes Music Archive – is also interested in any photos and memorabilia you might have from any of those shows.
You’ll be in great company too; artists that have already contributed include Foo Fighters, Queen’s Brian May, Bon Jovi, Megadeth, Billy Bragg, Francis Rossi from Status Quo, and Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach.
“I’ve been fortunate that so many people have been happy to share their recollections of playing the venue with me, and I have some awesome never before seen images, too.
“The Bowl is a jewel in the crown of Milton Keynes and the book is a wonderful way to capture that history for everyone to enjoy. But this isn’t just about those who have played on its stage – it’s about everyone who has enjoyed time there.”
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1 min read
Milton Keynes Pride Festival has announced Tulisa as the headline artist for this September’s event at Campbell Park.
The N-Dubz star, singer-songwriter and television personality will headline the Main Stage as thousands of visitors from Milton Keynes and across the UK come together for one of the region’s largest free celebrations of LGBTQ+ community, culture and inclusion.
Taking place on Saturday 12 September 2026, the festival will feature live entertainment, community organisations, family activities, independent traders, food and drink vendors throughout the day.
Less than 35 minutes from London Euston by train, Milton Keynes Pride Festival continues to attract visitors from across the country while showcasing Milton Keynes as a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant destination.
Keith Emmett III, Director of Milton Keynes Pride Festival, said:
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Tulisa to Campbell Park as our headline artist this September. Milton Keynes Pride Festival continues to grow year on year, and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond for what promises to be a fantastic celebration.”
FREE Milton Keynes Pride Festival tickets are now available.
Further artists will be announced throughout July.
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5 min read
With the big school holidays fast approaching, The Parks Trust’s summer events are perfectly lined up to keep everyone entertained whatever the weather!
Make the most of longer days and luscious landscapes with an exciting programme of outdoor activities and events taking place across Milton Keynes’ parks.
Summer Holiday Open Mornings
Every Tue, Wed & Thu at Howe Park Wood | 9.30am-12.30pm
Free nature activities for families, exploring the ancient woodland and learning about the wildlife that lives in Milton Keynes’ parks. Visit again and again to enjoy different weekly themes including Marvellous Minibeasts, Super Creatures, Nature Games, Wildlife Warriors and more. Plus, some weeks feature ticketed sessions such as bug hotel building – book these online before you visit to avoid disappointment!
Home to endangered animals and plant species, Howe Park Wood is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England for its wildlife value.
Golden Summer Picnic
Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30-4pm
Relax into a lazy afternoon at the orchard, with friends and family. Pack a blanket and tasty treats to enjoy a summer picnic surrounded by the sights, scents and sounds of summer in this historic orchard celebrating 50 years feeding the community.
Butterfly Strolls
Wed 22 July in Ouse Valley Park | 1pm
Thu 6 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 6pm
Ever spotted a blue butterfly and didn’t know what species it was? Want to take part in The Big Butterfly Count but don’t know your Painted Ladies from your Peacocks? Transform your skills on an introductory butterfly identification stroll and help to record the species living in the parks!
Community Volunteering: Meadow Makers
Sat 25 July in Campbell Park | 12-2pm
Join The Parks Trust to help give hogweed the heave-ho! This’ll boost native species in the wildflower meadows of Campbell Park, perfect for pollinators like bees and butterflies!
Parkland Play Sessions | 12-3pm
Wed 5 August in Oxley Park, Wed 12 August in Waterhall Park, Wed 19 August in Glebe Farm & Wed 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa
A series of inclusive summer play sessions in neighbourhood parks! Enjoy face painting, crafts, animal encounters, storytelling sessions, and exciting water safety games with The Parks Trust’s Community Rangers.
Community Volunteering: Orchard Haven Build
Sat 8 August at Woughton Community Orchard | 10am-12.30pm
Get hands-on with nature to help construct essential hibernacula and bug hotels to provide safe and cosy winter homes for wildlife like hedgehogs, amphibians, reptiles and insects.
Walk & Talk: Wildlife Wander
Tue 11 August in Waterhall Park | 2pm
Book now to explore this secret slice of greenery, sandwiched between two waterbodies in one of Milton Keynes’ lesser-known parks. This event offers a fantastic way to discover what species might be living right on your doorstep!
Family Bat Walk
Fri 14 August at Great Linford Manor Park | 8.15pm
Led by a knowledgeable guide and equipped with a bat detector, you and your family will venture into the park around sunset to learn about the incredible bat species living in Milton Keynes. You’ll listen out for the incredible sounds of bats whilst you discover the differences between species found in the area – and hopefully have the chance to spot them in flight! Limited spaces, booking required.
Orienteering with South Midlands Orienteering Club
Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30pm-4pm
Join the South Midlands Orienteering Club at Howe Park Wood for a challenging outdoor adventure sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
Love Wetlands Day
Fri 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 12-4pm
A fun-filled afternoon discovering and celebrating the wetlands of Milton Keynes. Take part in themed crafts and activities, learn about habitats and the fascinating creatures living in them, meet local wildlife groups and enjoy some tasty treats.
International Bat Night
Sat 29 August at Howe Park Wood | 6.30-9pm
An evening celebrating the world’s only flying mammal, with fascinating talks and activities led by The Parks Trust team and local societies before heading out into the park on a guided walk, using detectors to try and locate bats in flight! Limited capacity, booking required.
Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says “We can’t wait for another summer packed with fun and adventure in MK’s Parks, featuring loads of family-friendly events and activities to keep everyone entertained!”
Milton Keynes has over 40 different parks to explore and enjoy, with a huge choice of free play areas, walking and cycling routes, trim trails, and world-class outdoor artworks. There are many more activities and events in the city’s parks to take part in, including:
Woof Walk 25 July at Waterhall Park
Milton Keynes Barrio Fiesta 25 & 26 July in Campbell Park
Parks & Ride 26 July at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve
Community Litter Pick 27 July at Canal Broadwalk
MK Gospel Festival 8 August in Campbell Park
MK Weekender 14, 15 & 16 August in Campbell Park
Love Wetlands Day 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve
Arthur Ellis Mental Health Wellbeing Festival 23 August at Great Linford Manor Park
Community Litter Pick 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa
Inclusive Stroll 27 August at Furzton Lake
Woof Walk 29 August at Howe Park Wood
Milton Keynes Tribute Festival 29 & 30 August in Campbell Park
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2 min read
The Parks Trust has announced the return of the much-loved Big Park Hangout, a free event designed especially for young people aged 11–17 and excitingly backed this year by a £10,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Taking place on Saturday 5 September, Big Park Hangout provides local teenagers with an afternoon packed full of music, sport, creative workshops, games and wellbeing activities, all set within a safe and relaxed outdoor environment.
Alongside entertainment and activities, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with organisations supporting young people, helping to build trust, confidence and awareness of the help available to them.
With youth provision under pressure, Big Park Hangout plays an important role in bringing young people together and strengthening community bonds. Ensuring a wide range of voices and expertise shape the event, Big Park Hangout is delivered in partnership with organisations including Community Action MK, the Youth Council, Milton Keynes Arts Centre, VICTA, Girl Pack, Arthur Ellis, CHUMS MK Young Carers and more.
Sandra Adjei, Events Assistant at The Parks Trust says: “Big Park Hangout is all about giving young people in Milton Keynes a free, welcoming space where they can spend time with friends, try something new and feel connected to their community. We know how important it is for teenagers to have safe spaces where they can build confidence, explore what the city has to offer and find out about the services available to them, and we’re really pleased to be bringing that opportunity back to Willen Lake this summer.”
The National Lottery Community Fund grant recognises the event’s strong alignment with priorities to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and empower communities.
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3 min read
Matthew Bourne’s award-winning dance thriller The Car Man will return for a 2026 UK tour, including performances at Milton Keynes Theatre from 7 – 11 July.
Loosely based on Bizet’s ever-popular opera, Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertoire. The familiar 19th-century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1950s garage-diner in the American Midwest, where the dreams and passions of a small town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome and enigmatic stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed,
lust, betrayal and revenge.
Matthew Bourne said: “I never dreamed when we created this show at the beginning of the new millennium that it would still be around, thrilling audiences, 25 years later! Inspired by vintage movie film noir classics, it holds a unique and special place in the New Adventures repertory as the only piece based on an opera and possibly the first ballet to feature a bisexual anti-hero! I’m particularly happy that we are taking the show “on the road” again after more than 10 years, and I can’t wait to revisit the hot and steamy town of Harmony USA – the best place to be next Summer!”
The title role of the magnetic Luca, “The Car Man”, will be played by Will Bozier and Harrison Dowzell, both former lead Swans in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, alongside New Adventures’ much-loved stars, Cordelia Braithwaite and Ashley Shaw as the alluring Lana. Rising stars, Leonardo McCorkindale and Harry Ondrak-Wright play the troubled misfit, Angelo, whilst Anna Maria de Freitas with Kurumi Kamayachi make their leading role debuts as Lana’s devoted sister, Rita. Danny Reubens and the original “Car Man” himself, Alan Vincent will portray Lana’s jealous husband, Dino.
Matthew Bourne said: “…it’s interesting to reflect on how iconic, unique and sought after the leading roles in this show have become since it was made in 2000. We are still the only company in the world to perform this production and yet the roles of Luca, Lana, Angelo, Rita and Dino have become as legendary as the show itself and a unique part of the UK dance landscape for several generations of young dancers. I’m proud that New Adventures never just “revives” a show; we re- invent, question and grow with each new cast which is why I’m so excited to revisit the small town of Harmony this summer and, much like Luca himself, shake things up a bit!”
THE CAR MAN was first seen in 2000, winning the Evening Standard Award for Musical Event of the Year and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Best Choreography. It was last seen in a unique revival for The Royal Albert Hall’s 150th Birthday in 2022. This expanded production received rave reviews and nightly standing ovations. However, this will be the first time The Car Man has toured since 2015.
Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 7 – Sat 11 Jul 2026. Tickets are available now.
LISTINGS
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man
Performances: Tue 7 – Sat 11 Jul 2026
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*
Additional Information
Additional Information
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