Ready to make this half-term one to remember? Xscape Milton Keynes got your back. From hair-raising activities and epic adventures to their favourite food picks to suit every taste, Xscape is serving up the ultimate half-term line up. So, put those school shoes in the cupboard, dust off your freshest kicks, and let the action begin…

BRING THE ENERGY

If you and your crew have energy to burn, you’ve come to the right place. You can work up a sweat at Gravity’s open jump, reach new heights at a Gravity Rocks climbing session, or get your skiing gear on and hit the slopes at Snozone. Got little ones in need of entertainment? Head to Funstation, where Hungry Hippos, soft-toy-packed claw machines, and a glow-up whack-a-mole await!

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

There’s nothing wrong with a little bit of healthy competition and at Xscape they’ve got tons of options when it comes to choosing your battleground! Step into a neon-lit arena and fight for a top score at Hollywood Bowl, get stuck into arcade games at Funstation, or make tracks for Volcano Falls for a golf adventure with a competitive twist. Alternatively, if you’re feeling friendly, you can unite as a team and race against the clock at Escape Hunt.

TIME TO FEAST

After a day of non-stop fun, you’re going to want to refuel and replenish your energy levels. Luckily, their outlets have you covered, offering everything from quick grab-and-go bites to sit-down, celebration-style meals. Tuck into Italian classics at PizzaExpress, fresh-off-the-grill burgers and hotdogs at Five Guys, or grab a McDonald’s Happy Meal to go. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, settle down for a cosy meal at Namji or Sumac Room.

WANT MORE?

They’ve got loads more activities and fun things to do at Xscape. Take a look at what’s on and start planning your mega day out today…

https://www.xscapemiltonkeynes.co.uk/en

Santa is bringing his sleigh to Gulliver’s Land Milton Keynes during the festive season, with a glittering array of treats lined up to entertain all the family.

The theme park resort in Milton Keynes will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with a dazzling variety of special Christmas packages to choose from on select dates from November 29 through to December 23.

And making a return this year is Santa’s Enchanted Elevator, an immersive experience to enter Santa’s Grotto. After entering the ‘elevator’, families will get a magical view through its windows of the North Pole and when the doors open, they are right outside Santa’s Grotto to meet the man himself!

The packages start at £27 per person with the ‘Smasher’, which includes selected Christmas rides, entry to Santa’s Grotto, and the chance to choose your own gift from the Elf Workshop.

You can enjoy a ‘Festive Breakfast’ package for £33 per person, which includes the opportunity to explore the Winter Wonderland and see Santa in his grotto, a visit to the Elf Workshop to choose your own gift and, of course, breakfast, with festive entertainment while you dine!

There is also the ‘Cracker’ package, at £34 per person which comes with a light meal.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “We have a wonderful Christmas time lined up for everyone, with our Enchanted Elevator, Santa bringing his grotto and those hard-working elves making lots of fantastic presents, while the Winter Wonderland is always a huge favourite with our festive visitors. Christmas is, of course, an expensive time for families, so we have once again tried to ensure our prices are kept as low as possible.”

You can make your festive visit to Gulliver’s Land even more special with a Santa Sleepover in the superb range of accommodation on offer, including Princess Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn themed lodges, and Woodland Lodges.

What’s more, Gulliver’s Land has a special Christmas 2025 sale, offering a saving of 25% on all Christmas packages on November 29 and 30, and December 6, 7, and 22. And there are discounted festive sleepovers on selected dates too between November 28 and December 14.

To get the online discount code, just visit www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk/christmas-at-gullivers

Milton Keynes’ entertainment scene is set for a major boost this autumn as MERKUR Casino will unveil its newest flagship venue, opening inside Xscape Milton Keynes on Saturday 1st November, bringing high-energy gaming, live entertainment and over 100 new jobs to the city.

Spanning 22,000 sq ft, the new flagship venue houses a 1,367 m² gaming floor featuring 72 slot machines, 26 electronic roulette terminals and 15 live gaming tables, complemented by a 4,700 sq ft bar and event space designed for live acts, community events and private functions.

The venue represents a major investment for the brand and a defining moment for the city’s leisure economy by bringing together cutting-edge gaming, live entertainment and a premium late-night offering under one spectacular roof.

The grand launch event on Saturday 1st November is expected to welcome hundreds of guests including local dignitaries, influencers, journalists, celebrities, and headline performers. The evening will feature live tribute acts, roving performers, and a £10,000 giveaway, setting the tone for the high-calibre programme of events the casino will continue to host.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK Ltd “Our head office is based here in Milton Keynes, so this opening means a great deal to us. We’ve worked with local suppliers, created over 100 new roles and built a venue that reflects everything this city stands for – energy, innovation and community spirit. We’re proud to create these opportunities in our home city”

The opening underscores MERKUR’s long-term growth strategy in the UK, strengthening its position as a leading operator in the adult gaming and entertainment sector. The Milton Keynes venue reflects the brand’s continued investment in quality, innovation and guest experience, with an ambition to be recognised among one of the best casino destinations outside London.

Mark continued: “We wanted to create something that genuinely stands out and a venue that feels exciting and welcoming, where guests can enjoy premium gaming, live entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere. Our goal is to offer an experience that sets a new standard for regional entertainment. We’re proud to create a venue that enhances Milton Keynes’ already vibrant nightlife and offers something new for the city’s leisure scene.”

Dan Murphy, centre director at Xscape Milton Keynes, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome MERKUR Casino to Xscape Milton Keynes. The casino has always been a landmark part of Xscape’s entertainment offering, and we’re delighted to see it returning under new ownership. MERKUR’s significant investment has transformed the venue into a modern and dynamic destination, strengthening the mix of leisure experiences we offer our visitors. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming guests into the new casino when the doors open on 1^st November.”

MERKUR Casino UK Ltd is part of the MERKUR Group (formally the Gauselmann Group), one of Europe’s leading gaming and entertainment companies. Headquartered in Germany, the group operates Internationally, with a strong presence in Germany alongside numerous other countries including the UK, Spain, the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Serbia.

For further details visit https://merkurcasinouk.com/casino/

Midsummer Place in Milton Keynes is brewing up a spook-tacular week of fang-tastic fun this October half term — and you’re invited to join the ghoulish goings-on!

From potion-making to petrifying performances, there’s something for every little monster to enjoy – and all the activities are FREE and no need to book.

A purr-fect Halloween Hunt

Find the Black Cats – 25–31 October

Our mischievous black cats have escaped! Hunt them down around the centre between 25 and 31 October for a chance to win a prize – we have seven lucky £25 vouchers up for grabs – that’ll make you purr with delight. Keep your eyes peeled — they’re fur-tunately good at hiding!

Witchy Wednesday Potion Making – Wednesday 29 October 11am-4pm

Double, double, toil and bubble! Budding witches and wizards can mix up their very own magical brews during our Potion Making workshop. Expect sparkles, spells, and spine-tingling surprises — no prior witchcraft experience required! Find us by the bandstand.

Halloween fun fest: Friday 31 October

Face Painters 11am–4pm

Transform into your creepiest or cutest Halloween alter-ego with our frightfully talented face painter. Whether you fancy being a sparkly skeleton, a ghostly ghoul, or a batty vampire, we’ve got you covered (in paint, that is).

Disco Dracula 11am–4pm

Fangs for the memories! Horizon Radio’s very own Dracula will be swooping into Midsummer Place for a day of dancing, disco, and devilish fun. Join the Count himself for sweet treats and blood-curdling beats that’ll get your heart racing.

And beware the wandering ghouls! Our spooky walkabout characters will be haunting the centre throughout the week — perfect for eerie encounters and boo-tiful photo ops.

Kirsty McGiff, Marketing and Commercialisation Manager at Midsummer Place, said: “Halloween is one of our favourite times of the year and we can’t wait to welcome families for a week filled with fun, frights, and plenty of treats! Whether it’s mixing up a magical potion, spotting our hidden black cats, or joining Dracula on the dancefloor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re encouraging everyone to come along in costume and make it a Halloween to remember.”

So, grab your broomsticks, dust off your capes, and prepare for a monster mash like no other. Midsummer Place is the place to creep it real this Halloween!

For more information, visit www.midsummerplace.co.uk

As autumn arrives, the Stadium MK Group is gearing up for one of its most exciting months of the year. From football action to music festivals, Halloween parties and a spectacular fireworks display, there’s something for everyone across Stadium MK, Arena MK and The National Bowl.

MK Dons v Crewe Alexandra

Stadium MK | Saturday 18th October

All eyes then turn to the pitch as MK Dons welcome Crewe Alexandra to Stadium MK in Sky Bet League Two football action. Dons will be looking to deliver another strong performance and keep their league campaign on track.

It’s the perfect chance to enjoy live football in the heart of Milton Keynes. Tickets are available now via the club’s official ticketing site.

RNB Forever – 00’s & 90’s with MKFM

Arena MK | Friday 24th October

Get ready to step back in time for the ultimate throwback night. RNB Forever celebrates the best of 90s and 00s R&B, with special guest Dappy.

Hosted in partnership with MKFM, it’s a night of smooth vibes, singalong classics and non-stop nostalgia – the perfect start to your weekend.

WAH Halloween 2025

Arena MK | Saturday 25th October

Arena MK transforms into a haven for dance music fans this Halloween as WAH brings its legendary Halloween party to town. Expect huge production, big beats and top names from the UK dance scene, including D Double E, Flava D and Badger – for a night that promises to be nothing short of electric.

Dizzee Rascal’s Halloween Junkies

Arena MK | Friday 31th October

The Halloween celebrations continue as UK music icon Dizzee Rascal brings his brand-new live show Halloween Junkies to Arena MK. Expect a high-energy set packed with hits like “Bonkers”, “Fix Up, Look Sharp” and “Dance Wiv Me”, all wrapped in a fully themed Halloween spectacle. It’s one of the biggest nights of the season, and one not to be missed.

The Return to V7 Saxon Street

Arena MK | Saturday 1 November

Milton Keynes’ legendary rave heritage comes alive again as The Return to V7 Saxon Street celebrates the iconic 90s venue that helped shape the city’s music scene.

Arena MK will play host to a full day and night of classic sounds, from jungle and hardcore to drum & bass, bringing together old-school ravers and new fans alike for a celebration of MK’s vibrant music culture.

FireworX – The UK’s Biggest Fireworks Show

The National Bowl | Saturday 1st November

Rounding off an incredible month, The National Bowl will light up the Milton Keynes skyline with FireworX – the UK’s biggest fireworks and pyrotechnic show.

Presented by SkyFest, this all-new event combines fireworks, lasers, drones, and live entertainment to create a truly immersive experience. With a family-friendly festival atmosphere, food stalls and funfair rides, it’s set to be a spectacular finale to the Stadium MK Group’s October lineup.

For more information and to book tickets for any of the upcoming events visit:
https://www.mkdons.com/news/2025/october/08/what-s-on-across-the-stadium-mk-group-this-october/

Things are getting ever more chillsome at Milton Keynes Museum with the history hub preparing to celebrate half term with a full week of Halloween spooks – Monday, 27 October – Friday, 31 October.

For the first time, the Museum will be delivering a Victorian themed event too, adding to the creepability!

Popular local performance troupe, The Black Sheep Collective will be occupying the Street of Shops with perfectly eerie interactive performances.

There have been some spooky goings on, reports of shadows, strange noises and people going missing in the street of shops.

Meet George the paperboy, Betty the Butcher and Victor the V… who disappears into the shadows. All have their own story to tell, if you are brave enough to listen!

In the farmhouse, the Parlour will be dressed with all kinds of authentic decoration from the time when Queen Victoria occupied the throne.

Elsewhere, Halloween activities are running – including cookie decorating, and the chance to make your own witch’s hat. Museum volunteers will be dressing to scare, too.

And there’s much more, including a Spooky Singalong with Lingotot (Oct 29), Victorian-inspired henna design candle painting (Oct 30) and – coinciding with Black History Month – Cultural storyteller Chinwe will explain the meaning behind Adinkra Symbols from Ghanaian Culture, cross referencing them with objects from the servant’s room (Oct 31).

“It’s frightening how quickly Halloween is upon us, but we are ready for it and can promise everyone who visits the Museum this half term a thoroughly creepy time!” promised deputy director Surbhi Bhambri, “We’ve got a full week of freaky and fabulous events and activities planned, which will be spine-chillingly great, and perfect for all ages!”

There is ample free parking for broomsticks – and cars – at the Museum.

Pay once at the Museum and you can visit for free for a whole year.

For more information visit www.miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

* Black Sheep Collective performances are 12-2pm daily, October 27-October 31.

Willen On Ice, Milton Keynes’ most enchanting winter destination, returns on Saturday, 15 November – bringing even more festive fun this season with Friday Disco Nights and exclusive character appearances that add an extra touch of magic to the Willen Lake experience.

Willen on Ice will host a series of special guests and of course Santa himself on 23 December. Families can meet, greet, and snap unforgettable photos with their favourite characters on the ice starting from 20 November.

Also, there are special Disco sessions for teens (age 11-18) every Friday night. Visitors can lace up their skates and glide under the twinkling lights to the music beats every Friday evening, bringing a vibrant party atmosphere to the iconic ice rink. With tickets starting from just £11.95, these disco events are the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Plus, just announced, fans will also have the unique chance to skate alongside the MK Lightning ice hockey team on 26 November, making this year’s festivities more exciting than ever.

Speaking about this year’s event, Operations Manager Emily Thorpe shared her excitement: “We’re thrilled to offer visitors not just the magic of skating, but a truly festive experience that brings families, friends, and the wider community together. This year, we’ve added even more festive fun with our Friday Disco Nights, a fantastic line-up of character visits, the unique opportunity to skate alongside the MK Lightning ice hockey team, plus much more. We want every guest to feel the joy of the season, whether they’re stepping onto the ice for the first time or continuing a Christmas tradition.”

Willen on Ice continues to be a seasonal highlight for the Milton Keynes community, offering sessions for all ages, from beginners to seasoned skaters, as well as group bookings for schools, businesses, and parties.

For more information or to book tickets, visit:
www.willenlake.org.uk/activities/ice-skating/

Families are invited to enjoy a freakily fantastic time during Gulliver’s Land’s Fright Fiesta this Halloween season.

Fright Fiesta is a festival-style event brimming with colour, costumes and music, running over selected weekends in October, and then for half-term week from October 25-31.

This year there will be a few new frights and delights for guests to enjoy with the Gulliver’s team ready to put the scares on visitors young and old, and of course lots of fun thrown in for good measure!

The resort is open 10.30am-4.00pm for Fright Fiesta, with tickets priced from £19 per person, and children under 90cms going free.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “We are looking for brave adventurers, young and old, to take up the spooky challenges, preferably in colourful, scary fancy dress costumes! We will have lots of cool prizes on offer for the best costumes and the team will be pulling out all the stops to make sure everyone has a fantastic time during October. There will be some new activities this year which we know our visitors will really enjoy, too.”

The resort has 50+ rides, attractions, shows and activities to enjoy during Fright Fiesta, including The Runaway Train, Dragon Siege 360-degree pendulum, and the Grand Prix Racers rollercoaster.

You can turn your Fright Fiesta visit into a spooky sleepover by booking in for an overnight stay in the fantastic range of accommodation available at Gulliver’s Resort, including Pirate Lodges, Captain’s Dens, Lost World Lodges and the mighty Megalodon Lodge.

Following hot on the heels of Fright Fiesta, Saturday, November 1 sees Gulliver’s Fireworks Spectacular*, with extended opening hours (10.30am-6.30pm) culminating in a magnificent fireworks display. Tickets for this event cost from £26 per person.

In fact, you could book into the theme park overnight for Friday, October 31 and experience both the Fright Fiesta and Fireworks Spectacular.

For more information and tickets for Fright Fiesta and Fireworks Spectacular, please visit: www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk

*Please note that fireworks shows may be subject to modification or cancellation without prior notice, particularly in the case of severe weather conditions

A day that promises a juicy experience for all, Apple Day, is back for another year of sensational family fun at the Woughton on the Green Community Orchard.

On Saturday 18th October, from 12-4pm, visitors can expect a fun-filled session learning about the orchard, its diverse varieties of apples, and themed crafts with The Parks Trust’s Outdoor Learning Team.

From face-painting to live storytelling, there’s something for everyone. Take an immersive tour with the Mid Shires Orchard Group, enjoy entertainment from a Bubble Performer, and even make your own apple bird feeder to take home. Dig into delicious food from local vendors, and enjoy live music from 2pm.

Amy Gerhard, Events Assistant at The Parks Trust, says “Apple Day is an event that many of us look forward to throughout the year! It is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to discover the delights of the Woughton on the Green Community Orchard. It’s a celebration of both nature and community, where visitors can explore this magical green space and learn from local volunteers about the rich heritage of apples and orchards, whilst also enjoying lots of apple-themed crafts and activities.”

Don’t miss out on apple pressing, face painting, crafts and storytelling for all ages – and even a giant apple catapult!

For further information about Apple Day, visit theparkstrust.com/appleday

It’s that time of year again! Pick up your skiing and snowboarding gear, book that trip to the slopes and start getting excited for the après ski food and drink, because Xscape Milton Keynes have everything you need to get ready for another fantastic snow season under one gigantic roof! From expert advice and services to all the latest equipment and real snow slopes for some extra practice, there’s a reason Xscape is the Home of Snow Season!

IN THE SNO (ZONE)

Some things can’t be learned in theory. Practice is the only way to get properly prepped for the slopes, so come and book a session at Snozone! With expert one-to-one and group coaching, sledging sessions and leisure slope time, Snozone has you covered whether you’re a complete beginner or a freestyle pro looking to up your game even further. And the slopes have real snow? Book your trip to Snozone now and approach the slopes with the utmost confidence.

GET THE GEAR

Getting geared up for your ski or snowboard trip involves careful planning as you’re investing in high-tech equipment that needs to last and last and keep you well protected on the slopes. Luckily, Trespass and Ellis Brigham have you covered! Find everything from quality ski jackets and outerwear to accessories and more, including a wide range of boards and skis. Plus, their expert staff are on hand to help make sure your purchase is perfect for you and your need this season.

TIPS, ADVICE & SERVICES

Still have some burning questions that you want answered by an expert? You’re in luck – Ellis Brigham’s in-store team live, sleep and breathe skiing and are happy to help! Whether you’re looking to get your ski and snowboard gear back into top condition with a service by one of the technicians or you need new ski boots fitted stat, book a consultation with the expert team at Ellis Brigham to help get you and your equipment ski-ready in no time.

FUEL UP!

Hitting the slopes is hungry work… so be sure to fuel up right at Xscape. Get your pre-ski coffee in at Starbucks, or treat yourself to a Creams milkshake for added snow season indulgence. Worked up an appetite after hitting the slopes? Enjoy your very own après-ski at The Alpine Kitchen – a great spot for loaded burgers and well-stuffed toasties – or tuck into familiar favourites at Nando’s and Slim Chickens, or warm up with spicier fare at Namji and wagamama.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

With everything you need to prepare for the slopes and make a day out of it too, Xscape is your one-stop shop this snow season.

https://www.xscapemiltonkeynes.co.uk/

Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson with illustrations by Axel Scheffler, perennial festive favourite Stick Man is going to be this year’s family Christmas show at The Stables in Milton Keynes.

“Stick Man lives in the family tree
With his Stick Lady Love
and their stick children three…”

What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree in time for Christmas?

Performances will run from Tuesday 16 December through to Sunday 4 January.

This much-loved adaptation from Freckle Productions, the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Julia Donaldson is the multi award-winning author of some of the world’s best loved children’s books including The Gruffalo and Zog. Julia is best known for her popular rhyming stories for children, especially those illustrated by Axel Scheffler, which have sold over 75 million copies and have been published in over 100 languages.

Tickets for all performances are now on sale and can be booked online at
www.stables.org or by phone by calling The Stables box office on 01908 280800. The show is suitable for all children over 3 years old and the performance lasts approximately one hour.

Children can treat their grandparents to a fantastic, fun-packed visit to Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes during a special weekend in October.

Grandparents Weekend takes place on 4-5 October, with free entry for two grandparents with each full-paying person.

Resort mascots Gully and Gilly Mouse have lots of excitement in store for families, with 50+ magical rides, attractions, shows and activities at the resort.

The exciting rides at Gulliver’s Land include The Runaway Train, Dragon Siege 360-degree pendulum, and the Grand Prix Racers rollercoaster.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “The feedback we receive each year from Grandparents Weekend is so enthusiastic, children love bringing their grandparents to the resort and all the grandmas and grandpas seem to have such fun letting their hair down! We can’t wait to see everyone during the first weekend in October enjoying everything the resort has to offer.”

Day tickets to Gulliver’s Resort for Grandparents Weekend cost £23 per person, with free entry for children under 90cms tall.

If you want to make it an extra special treat for nan and grandad, why not book the family in for an overnight stay. Gulliver’s has a variety of family accommodation options to choose from, including Princess Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn-themed lodges, and Woodland Lodges.

Gulliver’s Land is one of four theme park resorts in the Gulliver’s family – alongside Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, Gulliver’s World in Warrington, and Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham.

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