Visit Santa this Christmas at centre:mk and experience the brand-new tale of Peter Rabbit and Friends, in a heartwarming new festive adventure!

Families will enter Peter Rabbit’s cosy burrow, warmly welcomed by Mrs Rabbit who will tell the tale of Peter’s lost Christmas presents. The Children will use clues to help Mrs Rabbit search for the missing presents, before adventuring out into the snowy forest through Peter’s secret tunnel.

Within the snowy forest, families will join Peter Rabbit and friends in some festive fun, where they will decorate gingerbread biscuits for the Christmas feast, before heading off to meet with Santa himself to complete their journey.

Each child will take away their decorated biscuit and receive a lovely gift from Santa.

Grotto Ticket Prices:

*all tickets will incur a booking fee at checkout

BOOK TICKETS HERE

Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group’s spectacular production of the classic multi-award-winning musical Mary Poppins is flying into Milton Keynes Theatre from 29 October 2025 for four weeks only, with performances until Saturday 22 November.

Since its premiere at the Bristol Hippodrome in 2004, the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins has gone on to record-breaking productions around the world, gaining over 50 major international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award. Over 15 million people have witnessed the magic worldwide, with the production having been translated into 13 languages.

Leading the company are Australian stars Stefanie Jones (the Australian National Tour of Muriel’s Wedding The Musical) and Jack Chambers (winner of So You Think You Can Dance Australia), who reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having previously starred in the Australian production. The pair opened this UK and Ireland tour in Bristol last year, to critical and audience acclaim. Patti Boulaye (Hair, Shaftesbury Theatre; Two Gentlemen of Verona, Phoenix Theatre) will play the role of Bird Woman until Sun 16 Nov, and from Tue 18 Nov onwards, international recording artist and actress Lyn Paul will take over the role.

The cast is also led by Michael D. Xavier (Olivier nominee for Into the Woods and Love Story) as George Banks, Lucie-Mae Sumner (West End production of Mary Poppins) as Winifred Banks, Rosemary Ashe (Olivier nominee for The Witches of Eastwick) as Mrs Brill, Wendy Ferguson (Les Misérables, West End) as Miss Andrew, Sharon Wattis (Book of Mormon, West End) as Mrs Corry, Ruairidh McDonald (Matilda, West End) as Roberston Ay and David Burrows (West End productions of Half a Sixpence, My Fair Lady and Oliver!) as Admiral Boom and Bank Chairman.

Olive Harrison, Connie Jones, Yvie Moore, Katie Ryden and Sienna Sibley currently alternate the role of Jane Banks with Oliver Benson, Charlie Donald, Oli Manning, Joshua Miles and Oliver Noble alternating the role of Michael Banks.

Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the world’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever before, featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The timeless score includes the classic Sherman Brothers songs: Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, and Feed the Birds.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS

Mary Poppins

Performances: Wednesday 29 Oct – Saturday 22 Nov 2025 (Evenings @ 7:30pm, Wed, Thu & Sat matinees @ 2:30pm, Sun matinees @ 2pm)
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

UK’s Largest 360° Fireworks Show Comes to Milton Keynes

On Saturday, 1 November 2025, Milton Keynes will host FireworX, the UK’s largest 360° fireworks experience, as the iconic National Bowl is transformed into an immersive festival of light, sound and entertainment, marking one of the biggest fireworks celebrations the UK has ever seen.

Produced by two of the UK’s most innovative large-scale event teams – who together have staged over 250 spectacular shows for more than 5 million people – FireworX also involves Keith Emmett & Sons, the family fireworks specialists who delivered many of Milton Keynes’ most memorable displays, ensuring the city’s legacy of fireworks continues into a bold new era.

For more information and to sign up for ticket information

The 2026 Winmau World Masters returns to the home of MK Dons next year, bringing Sport’s Biggest Party back to Arena MK.

Tickets for the 2026 Winmau World Masters will go on staggered sale from Monday 22 September, ahead of the tournament’s return to Arena MK, Milton Keynes, from 29 January to 1 February 2026.

The prestigious event will feature 32 of the world’s top darts stars, with reigning champion Luke Humphries set to defend his crown. Newly crowned World Champion Luke Littler has also secured his place, with further names to be confirmed as the competition draws closer.

Ticket Sales Schedule:

PDCTV Annual Members: Monday 22 September, 12pm

Pre-Sale Members: Tuesday 23 September, 12pm

General Sale: Wednesday 24 September, 12pm

Fans are encouraged to secure early access by becoming a PDCTV Annual Member or by registering for Pre-Sale Access via the free registration form at https://bit.ly/Masters26.

Pre-Sale Registration

Pre-sale registration closes at 12pm on Friday 19 September, after which fans will need to wait until the General Sale window opens.

Ticket prices will be announced in due course. Purchases will be limited to a maximum of six table seats or ten tier seats per member.

Neil Hart, Group CEO of Stadium MK, said:

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming the Winmau World Masters back to the world-class Arena MK.

Darts has such an electric following, and this tournament brings together some of the biggest names in the sport, with Milton Keynes at the heart of the action. To have both Luke Humphries and Luke Littler among the line-up makes this an unmissable spectacle for fans.

At Stadium MK, we’re committed to hosting a wide variety of live events that showcase sport and entertainment at the highest level. We know the passion of darts fans, and we cannot wait to see Arena MK packed out for what promises to be another unforgettable four days.”

Fans can register now for Pre-Sale Access via the official link: https://bit.ly/Masters26

The Chichester Festival Theatre Production of Irving Berlin’s Top Hat is heading out on tour and coming to Milton Keynes Theatre on Tuesday 23 – Saturday 27 September for one week only.

Based on the classic 1935 film which starred Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the stage adaptation’s original West End production won the 2013 Olivier Award for Best New Musical and the Evening Standard Award for Best Night Out.

The musical equivalent of the finest vintage champagne – effervescent, elegant and exhilarating – Top Hat is a heady romantic cocktail laced with sparklingly witty dialogue, stunning choreography, lavish sets and gorgeous costumes. Irving Berlin’s irresistible score includes some of Hollywood’s greatest songs: the immortal Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Top Hat White Tie and Tails and Puttin’ on the Ritz.

When Broadway star Jerry Travers arrives in London to open a new show, he crosses paths with model Dale Tremont, whose beauty sleep is rudely interrupted by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel suite above hers. Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to abandon his bachelor life to win her heart – but the path of true love never does run smooth. Especially since Dale has mistaken Jerry for his hapless producer Horace, who’s trying to avoid the wrath of his formidable wife Madge, and Dale’s own fiery Italian admirer is planning a trip to Venice for her to showcase his couture gowns.

Reprising their roles from Chichester Festival Theatre will be Phillip Attmore (So You Think You Can Dance) as Jerry Travers, Sally Ann Triplett (Cabaret) as Madge Hardwick, James Clyde (Matilda the Musical) as Bates and Alex Gibson-Giorgio (Mamma Mia!) as Alberto Beddini. Amara Okereke (My Fair Lady) joins the cast as Dale Tremont and James Hume (Kiss Me Kate) as Horace Hardwick.

Acclaimed American director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall stages this brand-new production. A nine-time Tony nominee and three-time winner for her choreography on the Broadway productions of Wonderful Town, The Pajama Game and Anything Goes, her most recent revival of Anything Goes – which played at London’s Barbican, on a UK tour, and was also televised – received nine Olivier Award nominations in 2022 and Kathleen herself received the award for Best Choreographer. She has worked on more than twenty Broadway shows and she is the first woman to have directed a play, directed a musical and choreographed a musical on Broadway.

With Music & Lyrics by Irving Berlin, Top Hat is adapted for the stage by Matthew White & Howard Jacques.

The UK and Ireland tour of Top Hat is produced by Kenny Wax and Jonathan Church Theatre Productions.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS 

Top Hat

Performances: Tue 23 – Sat 27 Sep 2025
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

Milton Keynes Islamic Arts and Culture returns with the City of Codes and Light Festival 2025. A free, city-wide celebration of culture, science, technology and creativity.

From 1–22 October, venues across Milton Keynes will host Constellations of Stars: Echoes Across the Sky. This year’s festival celebrates the work of Islamic astronomers such as al-Sufi and Ali Qushji and invites visitors to experience the night sky as a shared story connecting cultures and generations.

The festival features interactive installations, immersive projections, live performances, workshops, exhibitions, and community events.

WHAT’S ON

1 October – Launch Event

Bletchley Park: Special opening event with a panel of speakers including Dr. Alice Dumford, space instrumentalist and physicist, and Ruhee S Kahar, stellar astrophysics PhD student at the University of Dundee.

4 October

Mind & Matter Projection: Large-scale projection by multimedia creative studio Limbic Cinema, illuminating the MK Central Library with the story of astronomy from ancient stargazers to modern discovery. The projection will start at 7:15PM followed by the Lantern Parade.

Lantern Parade: City procession led by artist Emma Garofalo, featuring willow lanterns created by local school groups inspired by stars and constellations. Starting from the MK Central City Library at 7:35PM, the parade will weave through the city ending at the John Lewis Car Park, Milton Keynes where guests can enjoy more exciting activities, music and food.

In Infinity: Immersive galaxy installation created with Open University students combining a solar system of stars with thermal imaging. Available for guests to see from 6PM at the John Lewis Car Park, Milton Keynes

Live Music and Food Stalls: Community evening of music, refreshments and celebration. Available from 6PM at the John Lewis Car Park, Milton Keynes

21–22 October

STEAM Workshops: Interactive science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics activities designed to inspire young people.

Talks: Presentations from Ruhee S Kahar and Dr. Alice Dumford exploring astronomy and space science.

Exhibitions: Showcasing interactive installations and artworks.

Evening Performance: Step into a universe of stars, music, and movement with the Turkish Whirling Sufi Dancers on Tuesday 21st October, 6–7.30pm at Middleton Hall, centre:mk

City of Codes and Light FAQs

Dates: Wednesday 1st – Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Venues: Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes City Centre, centre:mk, and various locations across the city

FREE ENTRY for all major events

Fully accessible event sites

Join MKIAC and the Milton Keynes community for a powerful and inspiring celebration of culture, science, technology and creativity.

For more event information and participation opportunities contact: mkiac@mkcollege.ac.uk

Visitors to Gulliver’s Land can enjoy all the thrills of the theme park while raising vital funds for Willen Hospice.

The special charity weekend in support of the hospice takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 20-21.

Entry to the theme park in Milton Keynes over that weekend costs from just £17 per person, with £2.50 of each ticket sold donated to Willen Hospice.

The hospice is the only adult care hospice in Milton Keynes, with 170 staff and more than 600 volunteers providing palliative and end-of-life care, free of charge, to people living with a life-limiting illness.

Run by local people for local people, Willen relies on donations to provide these services to patients and their families. Situated alongside Willen Lake with its beautiful views, the setting is a tranquil place for patients and their loved ones to make the most of their time left together.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “Willen Hospice has been caring for patients and supporting their families for more than 40 years and we are proud to once again be able to help raise funds and awareness of the incredible work it does. Each year our visitors come along in huge numbers to support our charity weekends, and we are expecting another busy weekend for Willen Hospice.”

Visitors will be able to enjoy the thrills of more than 50 fantastic rides, attractions, shows and activities at the resort.

Among the exciting rides at Gulliver’s Land are The Runaway Train, Dragon Siege 360-degree pendulum, and the Grand Prix Racers rollercoaster, while at the Dino & Farm Park, you can explore the Lost Word in Dinosaur Discovery, visit the Reptile and Bug Centre, and a farmyard with a host of animals to enjoy.

As a special treat, why not turn your trip to Gulliver’s into a weekend stay by booking into one of the resort’s colourful accommodation options, which include Princess Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn themed lodges, and Woodland Lodges.

For more information and to book your tickets for the charity weekend, visit:
www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk

To find out more about the work of Willen Hospice, visit:
willen-hospice.org.uk

Midsummer Place is proud to announce that its 25th Anniversary Celebration will take place on Saturday 27 September from 10am – 4pm. Shoppers, families, and the local community are invited to join in a fun-filled day of entertainment, marking a quarter of a century at the heart of Milton Keynes.

Visitors can expect a packed line-up of FREE activities throughout the mall, including:

• Face painting with colourful designs for children
• Stilt walkers delivering high-energy fun and spectacle
• Live music to set the perfect celebratory soundtrack
• Plus, plenty more surprises throughout the day

As part of the celebrations, a special ceremony will also take place for everyone who shared their story with the Umbrella Project, where they will be presented with their very own umbrella from the art display as a thank you.

Since opening its doors in 1999, Midsummer Place has grown to become a vibrant shopping and lifestyle destination, home to leading fashion brands, unique independents, and a thriving food scene. The 25th anniversary is not just a celebration of the centre itself, but of the community that has supported it over the years.

“We’re incredibly proud to have been part of Milton Keynes for 25 years,” said Simon Martin Centre Manager at Midsummer Place. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you to the shoppers, retailers, and community who have made Midsummer Place such a special destination. We look forward to welcoming everyone on 27 September for a day full of fun and festivities.”

The event is FREE to attend and open to all.

For more information, visit https://midsummerplace.co.uk/

Smash hit play 2:22 A Ghost Story returns to Milton Keynes from Mon 15 – Sat 20 Sep as part of a new UK Tour, starring Stacey Dooley & Kevin Clifton.

Returning to the role of Jenny following a limited run at the Gielgud Theatre in 2024, Stacey Dooley will perform alongside her partner Kevin Clifton, who will play Jenny’s husband, Sam. This will be the first time in the history of the play that a ‘real-life’ couple will take on the roles of Jenny and Sam in the production.

Kevin Clifton said: ‘I’m such a huge fan of 2:22 as a play. I have seen it a number of times, and I’ve wanted to play Sam for ages! It’s superbly written, clever, funny and thought-provoking whilst always maintaining a danger that kept me on the edge of my seat. When Stacey did the West End run, I thought she was brilliant and just wanted to be up there with her. Me and Stace playing a couple with a new baby in a new house could not be more perfect! I’m really excited!’

Stacey Dooley added: ‘THRILLED to be slipping back into Jenny’s slippers! Truly. I had such a magical few months with 2:22 last year, I couldn’t be more excited to bring this incredibly clever show on the road! And with my Kev! Total dream, come see us! S x’.

Joining Stacey & Kevin will be Grant Kilburn as Ben and Shvorne Marks in the role of Lauren. Kilburn returns to the role having understudied on the 2023 tour and the 2023 Apollo Theatre West End season, covering for Ricky Champ and Clifford Samuel.

2:22 – A Ghost Story’s phenomenal success includes three years in the West End over seven seasons. There have been twelve replica productions worldwide, and the show has been seen by over 1 million people in seventeen different countries across 5 continents. In 2023/24, 2:22 – A Ghost Story embarked on its first extensive, hugely successful UK tour. For 2025/26, the production is back on the road, revisiting some cities due to popular demand.

What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

“THERE’S SOMETHING IN OUR HOUSE. I HEAR IT EVERY NIGHT, AT THE SAME TIME”

Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam, isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up… until 2:22… and then they’ll know.

“A slick, chilling, romp of a play”, The Guardian

“A modern classic”, Sunday Times

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS 

2:22 A Ghost Story
Performances: Mon 15 Sep – Sat 20 Sep 2025
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

Age recommendation 12+

This September, Midsummer Place is proud to host Bus to the Future. A FREE, family-friendly event that takes you on a journey through the past, present, and future of bus travel in Milton Keynes.

Join Midsummer Place on Saturday 13 September, where the city’s transport story will come to life through hands-on activities, interactive displays, and exciting experiences. Delivered by Get Around MK and supported by UK Government funding, this is your chance to see how buses have shaped our past, and where the next stop will be.

Step Into the Past

• Climb aboard a classic Routemaster bus
• Browse fascinating photographs from Milton Keynes’ transport history
• Enjoy free children’s activities to join in on the day – plus something special to take home

Ride the Present

• Capture the moment in our 360° photo booth
• Chat to local bus specialists and get expert travel planning support
• Pick up maps and guides to explore routes and events across MK

Imagine the Future

• Experience a ride on an advanced driverless bus
• Enter our prize draw for the chance to win exciting rewards
• Discover Get Around MK’s bold vision for sustainable travel

“We’re thrilled to bring Bus to the Future to Midsummer Place. It’s a chance for families and residents to celebrate Milton Keynes’ unique transport story while also looking ahead to the innovations that will shape how we all travel tomorrow,” said Simon Martin, Centre Manager at Midsummer Place.

For updates on all the latest news, visit Midsummer Place or follow us on social media and visit
https://midsummerplace.co.uk

A day packed with fun for families, transport enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome (children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).

This event is funded by UK Government and presented by Get Around MK, Milton Keynes City Council’s dedicated website for travel information.

For further information visit https://getaroundmk.org.uk/

Get ready, demigods! The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is set to embark on an electrifying UK tour this autumn, bringing the hit stage adaptation of Rick Riordan’s bestselling novel to audiences across the country. The tour will come to Milton Keynes Theatre from Wed 3 – Sun 7 Sep.

Leading the charge (and wielding the lightning bolt!) is Vasco Emauz (Back To The Future: The Musical) as the one and only Percy Jackson, joined by Kayna Montecillo (Starlight Express) as the wise and fearless Annabeth, and Cahir O’Neill ([title of show]) as everyone’s favourite satyr sidekick, Grover.

They will be joined by Simone Robinson (Coming to England) as Sally Jackson, Niall Sheehy (Miss Saigon) as Mr Bruner, Aidan Cutler (Back to the Future: The Musical) as Mr D, Ellie-Grace Cousins (Mamma Mia!) as Clarisse, Paolo Micallef (who was cast following open auditions) as Luke with Alex Anderton (making his professional stage debut), Abe Armitage (The Wizard of Oz), Joseph Connor (Sister Act), Ellouise Delooze (making her professional stage debut), Becca Francis (Iolanthe at ENO) and Amy McEvoy (making her professional stage debut) as the ensemble, Camp Half-Blood is officially open for more adventures!

Paul Taylor-Mills (Producer) said: “We’re thrilled to bring Percy Jackson’s epic journey to more UK audiences following the success we’ve had in London. This show is full of energy, humour, and heart—whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Camp Half-Blood, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.”

Based on the beloved book series (with over 180 million copies sold worldwide), Percy Jackson’s story has been adapted into both films and a major hit TV series for Disney+. The musical first premiered off-Broadway in 2014 to rave reviews and went on to have two US tours, another off-Broadway run in 2017 and a 16-week limited run on Broadway in 2019. The Lightning Thief made waves in the West End during its critically acclaimed, record-breaking run at The Other Palace.

When New York City teenager Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek god, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined.

With newly discovered powers he is unable to control, an unwanted destiny and a whole textbook’s worth of mythical monsters on his trail, Percy must learn what it means to be a hero.

The future of the world hangs in the balance as Percy and his friends embark on an epic adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat.

This dynamic musical adaptation of Rick Riordan’s bestselling The Lightning Thief has a book by Joe Tracz (Be More Chill), music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki (Monstersongs) and is directed and choreographed by Lizzi Gee (Groundhog Day). Set and costume design is by Ryan Dawson Laight (Burlesque), lighting design by Tim Deiling (SIX), sound design by Dan Samson (Heathers The Musical), video design by Matt Powell (Chess), musical supervision is by Jeremy Wootton (Heathers The Musical) with musical direction by Will Joy (Cruel Intentions – The 90s Musical), illusions by Richard Pinner (Ghost) and fight direction by Lisa Connell (Heathers). Associate Director & Choreographer is Libby Watts (Wicked) and Associate Set & Costume Designer is Christophe Eynde (Your Lie In April).

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS

The Lightning Thief
Performances: Wed 3 – Sun 7 Sep 2025
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