Over the next few months, citizens and organisations have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of Milton Keynes’ bid to become UK City of Culture 2029.
Fresh from being longlisted in the national competition – which will see one city receive £10 million to help develop culture locally – we are calling on the city’s cultural sector, residents, creatives, and businesses, to help shape a vision that truly reflects the city’s creativity, diversity and ambition.
There’s lots of ways to get involved. Over the next month, workshops and pop-up sessions will take place around the city where local people can share ideas, family stories, and their thoughts on what Milton Keynes means to them. A Book of Ideas will capture what makes the city so special, and there’ll be opportunities for all ages to create collages and other artworks, as well as activities in schools. Find out what’s happening, where and when HERE.
There’s also a quick and easy way to share ideas online at mkculture2029.co.uk
Businesses and organisations can also download a promotional HERE to spread the word and show they back the bid. It’s packed with posters, material for social media and other promotional items, and feature the Milton Keynes bid’s theme: We’re just getting started.
The final bid will be submitted in August. Shortlisted cities will be announced in the autumn, with the winner revealed in early 2027 – Milton Keynes’ 60th anniversary year.
Cllr Jane Carr, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, said: “This is a huge moment for Milton Keynes. Being longlisted is just the beginning, now we have the chance to come together and create something bold, ambitious and uniquely ours. We want to hear from everyone, because this bid belongs to the whole city”
“Whether you’re an artist, a business owner, someone growing up here, or you just love Milton Keynes, your ideas and your voice can help shape what we hope will be a brilliant celebratory year of culture. Winning the title would be transformative for many years but the journey is something great in itself – and our conversations are already sparking ideas, strengthening connections and creating new cultural opportunities we can all be proud of.”
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2 min read
‘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.
Head to Unity Place MK on Tuesday 11 August for a FREE screening of Disney Pixar’s Hoppers on their giant screen in the Urban Food Market. Plus, enjoy kids’ pizza and family food deals, a pick ‘n’ mix stand, giant games and more. Whether you’re looking to keep the little ones entertained or enjoy a stress-free day out together, this is the perfect summer holiday treat! Films starts at 11am, no booking required.
The Stables Family Fun Day – 26 July
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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4 min read
More than 2,500 people of all ages, from across Milton Keynes have shaped the city’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2029, demonstrating the strength of local support for a Milton Keynes win and all the lasting benefits it would unlock for the city.
Residents, business leaders and organisations joined the city’s creative and cultural community to contribute ideas, stories and aspirations at 173 workshops, pop-ups, drop-in sessions, school events and interviews backed up by an online survey for people who couldn’t join in person. Hundreds of conversations even happened during a busy drum and bass bike ride.
Since Milton Keynes was announced in March as one of nine longlisted bidding cities, local people have actively got involved in lively debate, made collages and maps to imagine future culture, and contributed to an inspirational ‘Book of Ideas’ that toured neighbourhoods, spaces and events around the city to capture what MK means to them and what it might achieve as UK City of Culture 2029.
The programme reached people of all ages and backgrounds and the final bid is rooted in the experiences and diversity of Milton Keynes communities.
What people said
Among the many ideas and views shared, local people want a winning bid to:
Focus on young people to help them experience and create culture during the City of Culture year and well beyond.
Go outside ‘traditional arts’ into food, sport and other areas to reflect how people experience culture in their everyday lives.
Secure investment for local artists, grassroots organisations and emerging creatives to generate more home-grown culture within the city.
Create spectacular events against the backdrop of distinctive parts of Milton Keynes.
We’re Just Getting Started
The campaign now shifts to its next phase, explaining to judges both through the bid and by ongoing activity that, in Milton Keynes, We’re Just Getting Started.
‘We’re Just Getting Started’ is the overall theme for the Milton Keynes bid. It demonstrates that we’re a young city with aspirations and enormous potential to grow and celebrate our own creative talent. Being named UK City of Culture 2029 would unlock new opportunities and investment to supercharge the city’s cultural infrastructure, help creative people achieve their dreams, and connect more residents to brilliant performances, networks and events.
UK City of Culture is the UK’s most prestigious cultural title, celebrating places that use culture and creativity to transform communities, attract visitors and create lasting social and economic impact. The investment generated by winning, including a formal £10 million prize, can massively strengthen a winning city’s creativity and culture. In Hull (2017) more than 90% of local people took part in a cultural event during the year, and in Bradford (2025) around 7,000 new jobs were created, as well as a brand-new performance venue.
“The response from people across Milton Keynes has been incredible. More than 2,500 people have taken the time to share their ideas and ambitions for our city. Their contributions are helping to shape a bid that truly reflects the creativity, diversity and pioneering spirit that makes Milton Keynes unique. It’s brilliant to see so much enthusiasm for what we can all achieve together, and we really want this to continue. As the bid will say, we’re just getting started!”
– Cllr Jane Carr, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council
“You can get a bit jaded working in the arts, this reminded me why we do it. The opportunity to talk to people, to hear how much they want to be City of Culture and what they want to do – it’s given me a whole new lease of life”
– Creative Producer Ursula White, who toured the Book of Ideas around Milton Keynes
“There’s the culture that’s the past and the culture that’s emerging and when we researched places to live in, Milton Keynes felt it was a place of the future, not stuck in the past, it’s an emerging culture and we wanted to be part of that.”
– A Milton Keynes resident who contributed to the Book of Ideas
Next steps
Nine cities have been longlisted as candidates to be UK City of Culture 2029 (Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham). Bids will be submitted to judges in August, and Milton Keynes will find out if it reaches the next phase, becoming one of four shortlisted cities, later this year.
An independent panel of judges selected for their wide range of expertise, chaired by legendary television producer Sir Phil Redmond, will make the decision. Judges will visit all shortlisted cities, and the UK’s City of Culture for 2029 will be announced in early 2027.
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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
One of Milton Keynes’ most picturesque lakeside cafés is set to reopen next week under new management as Drift Bar & Kitchen. The venue is the latest venture from the local team behind popular destinations including Blossom Room, Parrilla, Maaya and the soon-to-open Chapel in Stony Stratford, marking the start of an ambitious new chapter for the Willen Lake venue.
The initial reopening on Saturday 25 July marks the first phase of that journey, with visitors able to once again enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks while taking in the stunning views across Willen Lake. Opening daily from 8am until 9pm, Drift will offer significantly longer opening hours, giving visitors more opportunities to enjoy the waterfront throughout the day and into the evening.
Guests can enjoy a refreshed menu of freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and evening meals, alongside quality coffee supplied by local specialists Doe and Fawn, all served in a relaxed atmosphere that makes the most of one of Milton Keynes’ most scenic locations.
While the venue will reopen next week, the new operators have already confirmed ambitious plans for the New Year, when Drift will undergo a refurbishment. The transformation will introduce a brand-new look and feel, enhanced facilities and exciting new features designed to create an even more vibrant destination for both local residents and visitors.
Future plans also include live entertainment, seasonal events, private celebrations and corporate hire, establishing Drift as more than just a café but a year-round social destination at the heart of Willen Lake.
Leigh Strathearn, new joint owner of Drift Bar & Kitchen, said: “Our priority was to get the café back open so people can once again enjoy this incredible lakeside location. Willen Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Milton Keynes, and we wanted to create somewhere people can simply come to eat, drink and relax while taking in the surroundings. This reopening is just the first step. In the New Year we’ll be investing significantly in a complete refurbishment that will transform Drift into something really special, with exciting new experiences and a venue that reflects the quality of its setting.”
Rob Wood, Director at Willen Lake said: “We’re delighted to welcome the new operators to Willen Lake and see the café reopen for visitors. It’s fantastic to see the venue back in operation, and we’re especially pleased to be working with a local operator who understands the area and is passionate about meeting the needs of our visitors. We’re excited by their longer-term vision to invest in the space, creating an even better destination for everyone who enjoys spending time at Willen Lake.”
The reopening marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the lakeside venue, with visitors once again able to enjoy food, drinks and waterside views. Visitors are invited to come along from Saturday 25 July to experience the new offering and enjoy one of Milton Keynes’ most scenic locations.
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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
Lindt & Sprüngli, the globally renowned Swiss chocolate manufacturer, is launching its latest luxurious Chocolate Shop in the heart of Milton Keynes’ retail destination, centre:mk, on 30 July.
The store marks the expansion of the Swiss chocolatier’s UK footprint, further strengthening centre:mk’s retail mix and reinforcing its position as one of the nation’s top 10 prime regional destinations.
The new boutique Lindt store will captivate chocolate lovers with its irresistibly unique experiences. Visitors to the 1,670 sqft store will be enchanted by indulgent offerings and exclusive features, including:
Lindt’s iconic Pick & Mix selection: over 30 different chocolate varieties, from exclusive flavours to classic favourites like Choco Wafer, Popcorn, Cherry Blossom, Marc du Champagne, Stracciatella, Giandujotto and many more you can only find in store!
Exclusive gifts and personalisation: discover a curated range of gifts perfect to treat a loved one. For that extra special touch, custom gift tags and bespoke ribbons are available from Lindt’s expert gifting team.
MyLindt Rewards:become a member for free to enjoy rewards and special offers in store and online, including a welcome perk of 10% off your first purchase.
With summer in full swing, explore the brand’s latest launches in store. From Lindt Tokyo Style Chocolate Matcha and Strawberry bar exclusive to Lindt stores and crafted with ceremonial grade Chamei Minami matcha, LINDOR Cherry Blossom, a delicate Sakura-flavoured truffle inspired by Japan’s iconic blossom season, to LINDOR Golden Caramel Hazelnut, a golden caramel shell delicately refined with roasted hazelnuts and a smooth melting milk filling.
To celebrate the brand-new opening, a host of LINDOR delights will be handed out to visitors as well as extra special goodie bags for the first 250 customers who make a minimum purchase of £10, filled with iconic Lindt treats to enjoy.
Faythe King, Retail, D2C and eCommerce Director commented:“We’re thrilled to be opening our newestLindt Chocolate Shop in Milton Keynes to bring the exquisite taste of Lindt to the shopping destination of centre:mk, a key regional location for us. Visitors can enjoy a premium chocolate paradise with a feast for all the senses and unique offerings from our exclusive Pick & Mix flavours to personalised gifts for that extra special touch, only available in store. Opening just in time to explore our irresistible limited-edition products this summer!”
Kevin Duffy, centre:mk’s Centre Directoradded:“Lindt is a compelling addition to our retail mix, appealing to both everyday consumers and more affluent groups. Through its new boutique format, it will provide a sense of luxury and will sit seamlessly alongside our existing brands and enhance our overall proposition, complementing our food and beverage offer, especially with the upcoming arrival of Knoops. This strategic signing reinforces our commitment to bringing in best-in-class brands that resonate with our guests and continue to elevate the quality of the scheme.”
Whether you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth, find the perfect gift, or simply immerse yourself in a world of chocolate, Lindt’s new Chocolate Shop at centre:mk will be open from 09:30 on Thursday 30 July 2026.
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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
Midsummer Place is proud to support ‘Package for Milly’ initiative, helping to provide free essential menstrual products to anyone who needs them, discreetly and without judgement.
From this month, visitors can simply ask any participating member of staff for “a Package for Milly” and they will be given a free, discreet envelope containing essential menstrual products with no questions asked.
The initiative has been introduced to help address period poverty, which continues to affect thousands of people across the UK. Latest figures from ActionAid UK report that 10% of girls have been unable to purchase menstrual products, 15% have struggled to access them and 19% have switched to less appropriate alternatives because of rising costs.
Simon Martin, Centre Manager at Midsummer Place, said:
“No one should have to worry about accessing basic hygiene products. Package for Milly is a simple initiative that we hope will make a real difference to those who need a little extra support. We’re proud that many of our retailers, and more to come, plus our own centre team have come together to help make this available within Midsummer Place.”
Visitors can collect a Package for Milly from any member of the Midsummer Place team, as well as at participating retailers that so far include Lane7, Timberland, Victoria’s Secret, Dr. Martens, with additional retailers expected to join the initiative in the coming weeks.
Package for Milly was originally developed by Jackson Square Shopping Centre and now adopted by sites across the UK.
For more information about the Package for Milly initiative, please contact Midsummer Place.
Additional Information
The Beach at 
Teddy Bears’ Picnic: 12 – 14 August
British pop icons Scouting For Girls are all set to deliver a massive feel-good Saturday night but the lineup also features:
