Modern architecture, huge green spaces, great shopping opportunities, world-famous history, and top-class entertainment make Milton Keynes one of the UK’s most surprising destinations.

Often known for its grid roads and redways, the city offers far more than visitors expect — from wartime codebreaking centres to lakeside adventures and indoor skiing – all waiting to be discovered

Here are the top 10 attractions visitors should add to their Milton Keynes itinerary…

1. Bletchley Park

No visit to Milton Keynes is complete without exploring the legendary wartime estate where Allied codebreakers cracked the German Enigma code during World War II. Interactive exhibitions, restored huts, and fascinating stories bring one of Britain’s greatest intelligence operations to life. It remains one of the city’s most internationally recognised attractions.

2. Willen Lake

Willen Lake is the recreational heart of Milton Keynes. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking and cycling routes, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, open-water activities, cafés, and picnic areas. The surrounding parkland also includes adventure attractions and peaceful lakeside viewpoints, making it ideal for both families and couples.

3. Xscape Milton Keynes

This giant entertainment complex combines indoor skiing, climbing walls, skydiving simulation, cinemas, restaurants, and gaming experiences under one roof. It’s especially popular during rainy weather and offers year-round activities for all ages.

4. Milton Keynes Theatre

Milton Keynes Theatre is one of the city’s leading entertainment venues, known for hosting major West End productions, comedy shows, concerts, ballet, and family performances throughout the year. Located in the heart of the city centre, the modern theatre attracts visitors from across the region.

5. centre:mk & Midsummer Place

Milton Keynes is known for its great shopping. Right in the heart of the city centre, within easy reach of the main railway station and with excellent parking, you’ll find the two main undercover shopping centres offering a huge range of top brands including Apple, Lego, Reiss, Space NK, H&M, Primark, Zara, Mango and more. Plus, you’ll find many restaurants and eateries to help you rest and refuel in between shops.

6. Gulliver’s Land Theme Park Resort

Perfect for younger families, Gulliver’s Land features themed rides, adventure zones, seasonal events, and interactive attractions designed primarily for children aged 2–13. The park has become one of Milton Keynes’ best-known family destinations.

7. Milton Keynes Museum

Milton Keynes Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and heritage of the local area, from rural village life to the development of the modern new city. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historic farm buildings, vintage transport, and recreated period rooms, making it a fun and educational attraction for families and history enthusiasts alike.

8. MK Gallery

As the leading contemporary art venue in the region, MK Gallery showcases modern exhibitions from internationally recognised artists alongside photography, film, performance, and cultural events. The gallery also features a cinema, café, and creative spaces, making it a popular destination for art lovers and visitors exploring the city centre.

9. Campbell Park

Stretching from the city centre toward the Grand Union Canal, Campbell Park blends landscaped gardens, public art, event spaces, and panoramic viewpoints. It’s also home to the iconic Light Pyramid sculpture and regularly hosts festivals and outdoor performances, and is free to visit.

10. Ouzel Valley Park

For visitors who enjoy walking, wildlife, and open green spaces, Ouzel Valley Park showcases the natural side of Milton Keynes. The park features riverside trails, public art pieces, historic monuments, cycling routes, and links into the city’s famous Redway network. Free to explore.

Visitors are rediscovering Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes has steadily evolved into one of the UK’s most versatile short-break destinations, given the city’s combination of modern entertainment, extensive parks, cultural attractions, and easy transport links – what will you explore?

Looking to plan a Father’s Day with a difference? At Xscape Milton Keynes, they’re all about bringing families together for unforgettable days out packed with fun, food and quality time.

Let’s face it – he probably doesn’t need another pair of socks, and their cupboard is already full of “World’s Best Dad” mugs. This year, swap the predictable presents for something everyone can enjoy together instead.

Whether he’s into action-packed adventures, laid-back family meals or simply spending time with his favourite people, Xscape has everything you need for a Father’s Day done right – all under one gigantic roof.

BOOK THE BIG MOMENTS FIRST

Planning ahead is the secret to a smooth, stress-free Father’s Day, especially when it comes to the most popular activities. Start by locking in your cinema trip at Cineworld – the hottest cinema seats get booked up quickly, so make sure you secure yours early to get the best view in the house!

Looking for something more adventurous? Book now for high-energy family fun at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, challenge Dad to a little healthy competition at Hollywood Bowl or Volcano Falls Adventure Golf, or put your teamwork to the test at Escape Hunt. If you’re planning to visit Gravity too, booking early means less waiting around and more time making memories together.

And don’t forget Father’s Day food plans! Some of our busier restaurants, including Pizza Express, Sumac Room and Vita accept bookings, so it’s worth planning ahead if you’ve got your heart set on a family meal together.

MAKE A DAY OF IT

The best Father’s Day plans are the ones that feel effortless, and Xscape makes it easy to turn a few hours into a full family day out. Start with coffee and catch-ups at Starbucks, T4 or Xpresso Net before diving into activities, games and adventures together.

If he loves trying something new, there’s plenty to discover here. Take on climbing challenges at Gravity Rocks, experience immersive virtual reality at InstaVR or hit the slopes together at Snozone. Prefer a slower pace? Browse the latest outdoor gear and gifts at Trespass, Ellis Brigham and Evans Cycles.

When it’s time to refuel, you’ll find plenty of options to suit every craving, from burgers and wings to desserts and sweet treats. Whether you’re planning a big family lunch, casual dinner or post-activity milkshake stop, there’s something for everyone at Xscape.

GIVE THE GIFT OF TIME TOGETHER

Father’s Day isn’t about finding the perfect present – it’s about making memories together. Whether you’re competing for bowling bragging rights, sharing dessert after dinner or laughing your way through an escape room challenge, Xscape Milton Keynes is the perfect place to celebrate the father figures in your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Father’s Day visit now and book ahead to make the most of the celebrations.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE XSCAPE MK WEBSITE

The iconic 80s movie comes to the stage: The Karate Kid – The Musical, based on the original Columbia Pictures motion picture written by Robert Mark Kamen, arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 16 – Sat 20 June.

Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, Kenny Wax, Michael Wolk, Jack Lane and Leo Stages present the UK premiere production of THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL. Based on the smash hit Columbia Pictures motion picture, this new stage adaptation features a book by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 film that launched a 40-year global franchise, and music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini.

Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this new musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai’s relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny’s ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within.

Adrian Pang will lead the company as Mr. Miyagi, with Gino Ochello as Daniel LaRusso, Abigail Amin as Ali Mills, Joe Simmons as Johnny Lawrence, Matt Mills as John Kreese, Sharon Sexton as Lucille LaRusso, and Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez.

Adrian Pang is an acclaimed Singaporean performer whose extensive stage career spans the UK and Asia. Credits include the title roles in Hamlet and Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, The Grand Babylon Hotel, The Glass Menagerie, Little Shop of Horrors, Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and The God of Carnage. In 2024 he portrayed Ying Ruocheng in the world premiere of Salesman in China at the Stratford Festival in Ontario, later reprising the role at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

Gino Ochello, a Gibraltar-born performer and singer makes his professional stage debut as Daniel LaRusso. Abigail Amin a recent Arts Ed graduate, recently completed filming James Graham’s feature film Ink directed by Danny Boyle. Joe Simmons also recently graduated from ArtsEd, with credits including Cruel Intentions (UK Tour) and Pippin (West End). Matt Mills’ theatre credits include MJ the Musical (West End), Dreamgirls (UK Tour), Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (West End), Motown the Musical (UK Tour) and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical (UK Tour).

Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined for the stage with stunning artistry and ground-breaking choreography.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS
The Karate Kid The Musical
Performances: Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jun
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

Dads will be the centre of attention with a fantastic offer lined up for Father’s Day Weekend at Gulliver’s Land.

For Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21 entry to the Milton Keynes theme park is free for each adult who is accompanied by one full-paying child (over 90cms in height).

With more than 50 rides, attractions, shows and activities to enjoy, you can treat your dad to an awesome, action-packed adventure with all the family.

And if you book your tickets in advance, you can save even more on your big day out.

Gulliver’s Land been a firm family favourite for more than 25 years and Gully and the gang will be on hand to make sure there are plenty of wonderful memories for dad to treasure.

Among the resort’s most popular rides are Runaway Train, Jungle River Ride, Dragon Siege 360-degree pendulum, and the Grand Prix Racers rollercoaster. Cool recent additions include the Upside Down House and the exciting Wriggler ride.

You can also visit Gulliver’s Dinosaur & Farm Park which includes the Lost World dinosaur area, a farmyard with a host of animals to enjoy, plus the Very Hungry Caterpillar Play-Patch and Elmer, the Patchwork Elephant’s Jumping Pillows.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “These special events and offers are our way of providing lots of opportunities for family fun, while keeping the price for a visiting family as low as possible. Father’s Day Weekend is always so much fun and we hope to see many faces, new and old, through the park to celebrate dad’s special weekend.”

To make it an even more special Father’s Day adventure for dad, why not turn your visit into a weekend stay at the wide range of themed accommodation available at Gulliver’s Land.

These include Princess Suites, JCB Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn-themed lodges, along with Western Lodges and Woodland Lodges.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit: www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk/fathers-day-weekend

Following the seventeenth West End and fifth Broadway extensions, the Tony Award® and double Olivier Award®-winning musical Operation Mincemeat comes to Milton Keynes Theatre.

Having launched on 16 February 2026 at Lowry in Salford – the venue that first encouraged the writers’ extraordinary debut musical and hosted its first-ever scratch performance in 2017 – a 40-week run will play at theatres nationwide through 28 November 2026, including Milton Keynes Theatre from 8 – 13 June.

In Operation Mincemeat, it’s 1943, and the Allied Forces are on the ropes. Luckily, they’ve got a trick up their sleeve. Well, not up their sleeve, per se, but rather inside the pocket of a stolen corpse. Equal parts farce, thriller, and Ian Fleming-style spy caper (with an assist from Mr. Fleming himself), Operation Mincemeat tells the wildly improbable and hilarious true story of the covert operation that turned the tide of WWII.

Reprising their acclaimed roles, West End alumnae Christian Andrews (Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas), Seán Carey (The Play That Goes Wrong), Charlotte Hanna-Williams (Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella), and Holly Sumpton (Lovers Actually) are joined by new recruit Jamie- Rose Monk (Rome & Juliet) to form the cast, while Katy Ellis (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Georgina Hagen (Only Fools & Horses), Jordan Pearson (Back to the Future: The Musical), and
Morgan Phillips (The History Boys) complete the company.

SpitLip, the musical’s writers and composers, commented: “We’re so excited to see Operation Mincemeat heading out on a world tour next year, and the fact that it’s all kicking off at The Lowry, Salford – a venue who have fiercely championed us as theatre makers for over a decade, and where some of us made our professional debuts -is incredibly special. Having launched our show on Broadway this year, we know there’s an appetite (and a need) out there for shows which champion joy, and the power of small groups of people to change the world. We’re also delighted to be welcoming back our agents Christian, Charlotte, Holly and Seán, and welcoming our amazing new recruit Jamie-Rose, to kick off the UK leg of the tour – MI5 couldn’t be in more capable or more spectacularly stupid hands. Father’s never been prouder!”

The decision to write the musical was the last roll of the dice from SpitLip, a quartet of young British creatives after years of performing sketch shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and echoes the journey of Beyond the Fringe from the world-famous quartet Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Jonathan Miller, and Dudley Moore, which premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1960, before moving to the Fortune Theatre and later to the Golden in 1962.

Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 8 – Sat 13 Jun. Tickets are available now via
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical
Performances: Mon 8 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026
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

Horwood House is set to give afternoon tea a beauty-inspired makeover this summer with the launch of ‘Beauty in Bloom’, an exclusive event in partnership with luxury cosmetics brand, delilah.

The award-winning, 4-star country house hotel and conference venue in Little Horwood, near Milton Keynes, will host Beauty in Bloom on Sunday 28 June, where guests can enjoy an elegant afternoon of beauty, bubbles and sweet treats within the hotel’s beautiful manor house setting.

The experience begins with a glass of chilled Prosecco on arrival, before guests take part in an exclusive masterclass hosted by a specialist delilah makeup artist. The session will showcase the tips, tools and techniques behind delilah’s signature radiant look, offering guests expert insight and inspiration.

Following the masterclass, guests will sit down to a stunning beauty-inspired afternoon tea, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of sweet treats created especially for the occasion.

The partnership highlights Horwood House’s ongoing commitment to supporting premium, local and independent businesses that share its values. Stocked in prestigious retailers such as Fortnum & Mason, delilah carries significant industry weight and perfectly complements the luxury heritage experience offered at the hotel.

Furthermore, the collaboration aligns seamlessly with modern sustainability expectations; delilah is proudly 100% vegan and paraben-free, echoing Horwood’s dedication to quality, mindful practices and natural beauty.

Caroline Morrone, General Manager at Horwood House Hotel, said: “Beauty in Bloom is a beautiful way to enjoy a summer afternoon at Horwood House. We are delighted to be partnering with delilah to bring together expert beauty advice, indulgent afternoon tea and a relaxed, elegant experience in our Manor House.”

Janet Fricker, Co-Owner of delilah, added: “We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with Horwood House, a destination that mirrors our own commitment to heritage, excellence and elegance. As a B Corp dedicated to ‘better beauty,’ we look forward to joining Horwood with our luxurious and ethical glamour.”

Guests will also have the opportunity to browse the delilah pop-up collection on the day, with exclusive discounts available across selected products. Each attendee will receive a £20 delilah voucher to spend at the event.

Tickets for Beauty in Bloom cost £65 per person and can be booked by visiting:
https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/Beauty-in-Bloom.html

For more information on Horwood House Hotel, please visit https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/

With the arrival of sunshine and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors and make the most of Milton Keynes’ amazing green spaces, but don’t forget to Love Your Parks.

The simplest way to show your love for parks and green spaces is by acting responsibly whilst enjoying the great outdoors. Help spread the word so others do the same!

With over 6,000 acres to explore, there’s plenty of fun activities from walks and cycling to events, family games and picnics. To help keep these spaces clean and safe, The Parks Trust asks that we all follow some guidance so that everyone can have a fun, enjoyable and safe time in the sunshine.

• Don’t use BBQs, gas stoves or fires
• Take litter home or use bins where provided
• Respect other park users, wildlife, livestock, and habitats
• Care for nature – don’t cause damage or disturbance
• Act safely, especially around water
• Keep dogs under control and clear up their waste
• Be considerate to those volunteering and working in the park
• No overnight parking or camping

If you’re looking to explore somewhere new or find a spot to get closer to nature, discover Milton Keynes’ parks at theparkstrust.com

Milton Keynes workers are struggling to properly switch off during the working day, according to new research from Unity Place, with many spending lunch breaks at their desks and remaining glued to screens despite growing awareness around wellbeing and burnout.

The survey of local workers found that nearly half (46%) typically eat lunch at their desk, while almost one in three (29%) take 30 minutes or less for their lunch break — highlighting how difficult many find it to step away from work during the day.

Yet the findings suggest workers increasingly recognise the importance of taking meaningful breaks. An overwhelming 89% of respondents said taking a proper lunch break improves their day, with many citing fresh air, a change of environment and time away from screens as important factors in helping them recharge.

The research reflects wider conversations around burnout, workplace wellbeing and the pressures of always-on working culture, with lunch breaks increasingly viewed as an opportunity to mentally reset rather than simply grab food quickly between meetings.

Workers surveyed said taking a proper break helped them feel more relaxed (41%) and more productive (35%), reinforcing the value of stepping away from desks and screens during the working day.

While convenience continues to shape lunchtime habits, with sandwiches and baguettes remaining the most common lunch choice, the findings suggest workers are looking for more than just a quick meal — they want lunch to feel like a genuine break from the pressures of the working day.

Unity Place, a destination for food, drink and socialising in central Milton Keynes, says the findings reflect changing attitudes towards wellbeing and work-life balance.

Adam Holbrook, Head of Placemaking at Unity Place, said: “There’s growing awareness around burnout and the importance of wellbeing at work, but many people still struggle to properly disconnect during the day.”

“For lots of workers, lunch has become something they squeeze in while still answering emails or sitting in front of a screen. What the research shows is that people genuinely want something different — whether that’s fresh air, movement, better food or simply a chance to mentally reset before the afternoon.”

As a result of the research, Unity Place is encouraging workers to rethink their lunchtime routines and make better use of their breaks, whether through healthier food choices, spending time outdoors or taking part in wellbeing-focused activities.

Alongside its Urban Food Market, which offers a range of grab-and-go lunches, salads, deli options and street food, the venue also provides outdoor seating areas, wellbeing sessions and easy access via Milton Keynes’ Redways for those looking to walk or cycle during their lunch break.

Regular activities including breathwork sessions and creative workshops are designed to help workers step away from screens, recharge and return to work feeling more balanced and refreshed.

“We want to make it easier for people to take a proper break and build healthier habits into their working day,” Adam added. “Whether that’s meeting a colleague for lunch, getting some fresh air, trying something new to eat or joining a wellbeing activity, it’s often the small changes that make the biggest difference.”

Located in the heart of Milton Keynes, Unity Place brings together food, wellbeing and community experiences designed to support a more balanced and rewarding workday.

The Urban Food Market, located on the ground floor, is open to the public from 8am–4pm Monday to Friday.

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

Milton Keynes Theatre has unveiled its vibrant Summer Season for 2026, featuring an unparalleled line-up of West End hits, iconic concerts, award‑winning drama, side‑splitting comedy, beloved family favourites and world‑class dance.  The season promises unforgettable experiences for every audience.

June brings a packed programme of dance, comedy and musical theatre, including the internationally celebrated all-male comedy ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (2–3 June), Midge Ure (4 June), and Strictly Come Dancing favourites Amy Dowden & Carlos Gu (5 June).

One of the summer’s biggest highlights follows with the award-winning, record-breaking smash hit musical, Operation Mincemeat, running 8–13 June. This hilarious show tells the unbelievably true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II. Get your tickets quick!

The Milton Keynes Theatre stage then welcomes The Karate Kid – The Musical (16–20 June) and the iconic Lord of the Dance for its 30th Anniversary Tour (22–28 June).

Families will also delight in the return of The Tiger Who Came to Tea on 29 June.

Closing the month, audiences can enjoy the political satire I’m Sorry, Prime Minister, opening 30 June, starring Simon Rouse (ITV’s The Bill) and Clive Francis (BBC’s Poldark, Netflix’s The Crown).

July kicks off with Matthew Bourne’s acclaimed and award-winning dance production The Car Man, running 7–11 July, followed by the gripping stage adaptation of The Spy Who Came In From The Cold (14–18 July), starring Ralf Little (The Royale Family, Death in Paradise).

Music fans are treated to A Vision of Elvis (19 July) and Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra (27 July), while families and musical lovers can look forward to the beloved classic Annie from 21–26 July.

August opens with the feel-good favourite The Magic of Motown on 1 August, bringing timeless hits and high energy choreography back to the Milton Keynes Theatre stage.

The summer season ends with a bang as the iconic Dirty Dancing arrives for a special run 27–29 August, giving audiences the chance to relive the romance, music and emotion of the beloved film live on stage.  Be the first to see the new tour as it opens in Milton Keynes!

View the full programme of events at Milton Keynes Theatre and book your tickets at:
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS

Milton Keynes Theatre – 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ

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

As part of the National Garden Scheme, Willen Hospice is inviting the public into its peaceful, wildlife-friendly lakeside gardens on Saturday 11 July to raise money for national nursing and health charities, as well as its own care.

From 10am until 4pm, visitors can pay a small fee to walk around the Hospice’s two acres of gardens. Lawns, wooded areas, planted beds, a working allotment and an orchard will all be open to view, alongside an RHS award-winning pocket garden first showcased at the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in 2025.

Set on the banks of Willen Lake, the gardens have been thoughtfully designed to provide private and peaceful spaces for Hospice patients and their loved ones. A dedicated team of volunteers manage the gardens, with staff support, taking an increasingly naturalistic approach to help boost biodiversity.

Cream teas, lunches and drinks will be on offer from the Hospice’s cafe, as well as delicious freshly made cake. Every purchase from the cafe helps fund care for local people affected by life-limiting illness. The vast majority of the Hospice’s services are funded by the local community making donations, attending its fundraising events and shopping at its charity shops.

Live music will take place throughout the day, from 60s/70s tribute band MOTIF, acapella group The Reluctants and Sarah Jones Jazz. Green-fingered visitors will be excited to browse the plant sale and the pop-up gardening shop. There will also be prize stalls and a biscuit decorating (and eating!) activity for children.

The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to more than 3,300 exceptional private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands. It raises money for six core charities: Carer’s Trust, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Parkinson’s UK and The Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing. In 2025 the scheme raised £3.9 million and welcomed almost 600,000 visitors.

Willen Hospice’s gardens will be open on Saturday 11 July, 10am–4pm. Adult tickets are £5 and children can enter free. You can pay on the day or book in advance. Well-behaved dogs kept on a lead are also welcome.

To book online, and to read more information about the Hospice’s gardens, visit:
willen-hospice.org.uk/event/national-garden-scheme

If you’re interested in becoming a gardening volunteer at the Hospice, the gardening team are keen to welcome new members and will be at the event to answer any questions you may have. To find out more about volunteering with the Hospice in the meantime, visit willen-hospice.org.uk/volunteer-with-us

Midsummer Place has officially unveiled its Spring/Summer 2026 campaign, celebrating the season of style with a fashion-led video starring two local professionals: Yo DJ Mel and Kugar Monachello.

Shot within the Milton Keynes centre, the campaign blends fashion and creativity to showcase the latest seasonal trends available at Midsummer Place. The video uses a series of seamless, creative transitions to move between looks and locations, subtly highlighting key retailers including Victoria’s Secret, Levi’s, Timberland, Superdry, Hollister, Trends, LUKE 1977 and Suit Direct.

Yo DJ Mel said: “I’m so happy to have been invited to model for Midsummer Place. It was a great day of filming and the results look incredible. It’s definitely a very unique way of showing off the new trends in the centre.”

“This campaign is a great example of bringing fashion to life and using ‘real’ people instead of models will help people relate to what they see. It’s been great fun to work on and a real privilege to collaborate with Midsummer Place.” Kugar adds.

Kirsty McGiff, Marketing Manager at Midsummer Place, commented:

“Spring/Summer 2026 is truly here and with the weather seeming set to warm up, this is a great time to put away the winter coats and refresh your wardrobe. Our campaign video is a small but powerful taste of what’s in the retailers now, plus we’re expecting much more to come. We’re all hoping for a good summer this year but whatever the weather, we have something for our great British weather.”

The Spring/Summer 2026 campaign will roll out across social media, digital platforms and in-centre screens, encouraging visitors to explore new-season collections and discover the latest trends available at Midsummer Place.

Get Involved

There are plenty of ways to take part and support the UK City of Culture 2029 Bid – come along, get creative and share your ideas. Everyone is welcome.

Join a session

Meet the team, connect with others and help imagine the future of Milton Keynes.

Future City Workshop

Join artists Tom Eke and Ciara Callaghan for a collaborative workshop exploring Milton Keynes as UK City of Culture 2029. Through drawing, large-scale mapping, model-making and conversation, we’ll reimagine the city – its festivals, public spaces, architecture and stories.

Add your ideas, dreams and provocations to a growing shared vision of what’s to come.

Locations:
The Box Arts Club
18–20 Burners Lane, Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes MK11 3HB
Friday 5 June, 1:30–7pm

Market Hall, Wolverton
Glyn Square, 171b McConnell Drive, Milton Keynes MK12 5JQ
Friday 26 June, 5–7pm

The Book of Ideas

Ursula White and Rachel Wright with a team of artists are inviting people who live and work in MK to take part in a ‘Book of Ideas’. They are hosting 8 pop-up events with lots of activities designed to inspire creativity and conversation. Everyone is welcome. Everything created will be added to the Book of Ideas, capturing what MK means to the people who work here and call it home – its stories, hopes, imagination and identity.

Special Request…if you have a favourite family recipe to add to city recipe chapter of the Book of Ideas, please bring it along and pop it in the big cooking pot.

Book of Ideas POP-UP Events:

Saturday 6 June 1.30pm – 6.30pm
Art in the Park, Campbell Park Plateau, MK9 4BL

Saturday 13 June 10.30am – 12.30pm
Central Library (Foyer), Silbury Boulevard, MK9 3HL

Sunday 14 June 12pm – 7pm
Folk on the Green (The Memorial Garden), Horsehair Green, Stony Stratford, MK11 1JP

Sunday 21 June 10am – 6.30pm
Midsummer Festival, Midsummer Boulevard, MK9 3QA

Tuesday 23 June 10.30am -12.30pm
Kingston Library, Winchester Circle, Kingston, MK10 OBA

Thursday 25 June 11am – 4.30pm
Milton Keynes Market (opposite the shopping centre clock just outside centre:mk), MK9 3BB

Sunday 28 June 11am – 4.30pm
Middleton Hall (Near Pret A Manger), centre:mk,

Saturday 4 July 12pm- 3pm
African Diaspora Festival 2026, Campbell Park, MK9 4BA

Creative Collage with Robin Clements

Join Milton Keynes Arts Centre and artist Robin Clements for a series of fun, relaxed collage sessions. Meet the team, get creative and share your hopes, dreams and ideas for 2029. There are sessions suitable for both adults and children*. People who prefer not to get their hands dirty are also very welcome to come along and tell us their ideas. Refreshments will be provided.

Dates and locations are as follows:

Mon 15 June – Rowans Family Centre
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
13a Moorfoot, Fullers Slade, MK11 2BD

Tue 16 June – Frank Moran Centre
Adult (16+): 3pm, 4pm & 5pm
12 Melrose Avenue, Bletchley, MK3 6PA

Wed 17 June – Eaglestone Activity Centre
Family: 3:30pm & 4:30pm | Adult (16+): 5:30pm
5 Harrier Court, MK6 5BZ

Thu 18 June – Ellen Pettit Memorial Hall, Woburn Sands
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
High Street, MK17 8RH

Fri 19 June – New Bradwell Community Centre
Family: 3pm & 4pm | Adult (16+): 5pm
Church Street, MK13 0DA

Tue 23 & Wed 24 June – Bow Brickhill Pavilion
Adult (16+): 7pm & 8pm
Rushmere Close, MK17 9JB

Thu 25 June – Broughton Pavilion
Family: 12pm, 1pm & 2pm
139 Tanfield Lane, MK10 9NJ

Fri 26 June – Oxley Park Community Centre
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
Redgrave Drive, MK4 4TA

All workshops are FREE but due to limited space book a free ticket here: https://www.miltonkeynesartscentre.org/events

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Activities are suitable for ages 7+.