Cards and flowers are all well and good, but this Mother’s Day, why not do something a bit different? Eschew the ‘same old, same old’ for something she’ll genuinely love – a day out at Xscape packed with fun, laughter and time well spent together. From adrenaline-fuelled activities to relaxed family movie time and a celebratory meal, Xscape is your one-stop destination for a day that’s about shared experiences and making memories she’ll look back on long after the day is over.

Let the games begin

Why not turn the day into an adventure and create family teams for the day? If the losing team buys dessert, even better! Head to Funstation and work together to win tickets for those big prizes. Feeling brave? Take the experience up a level with a family indoor skydive at iFLY. Or, challenge each other to a round of golf at Volcano Falls. Whether it’s friendly rivalry or adrenaline-fuelled giggles, moments like these can bring the kind of silly fun that turns into family lore.

Unwind with a film

Slow things down with a family movie day at Vue. Grab a family sized bucket of snacks and catch a feel-good new release – like the adorable animated adventure Hoppers. Mother’s Day is all about uninterrupted quality time with no distractions, no rushing – just sitting side by side and enjoying the chance to relax, having a giggle and just be together. Plus, with free all day parking, there’s no excuse not to make a whole day of it!

Enjoy the moment

Mother’s Day is about the moments in between – the laughs, the spontaneous selfies, and reminiscing. Whether you’re in the mood for big flavours at wagamama, Italian classics at PizzaExpress, or something crowd-pleasing from Nando’s, there’s something for every generation. Take photos throughout the day to document your adventure, whether it’s a victorious arcade win, a pre-film family snap or a post-dinner selfie that the mother figure in your life will treasure long after Mother’s Day has passed.

Plan your visit: https://www.xscapemiltonkeynes.co.uk/en

Willen Lake’s FREE Flavour Fest returns for 2026!

This year’s vendors include:

• The Roast Wrap Co – Roast dinners
• Urban Spice Box – Punjabi cuisine
• Cornwall Place Kitchen – Burgers
• The Mac Daddy – Mac and cheese
• Murphy’s Empawium – Dog treats
• Mils Cookies – Baked goods
• Pampa Candi – Face painting, braids, and more
• The Lime Face – Malaysian street food
• Italian Indulgence – Italian treats

Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, or a fun family day out, Flavour Fest offers something for everyone. The event is open to all, free of charge, and no booking is required.

Normal car parking charges apply.

The hunt will be on at Milton Keynes Museum this Easter, as youngsters search for hidden eggs which lead the way to yummy chocolate rewards – and no-one will go home empty-handed.

This year’s hunt will see visitors trying to locate a couple of incredibly rare golden eggs that will be hiding somewhere in the Museum.

Find those, and you’ll win a large chocolate Easter egg!

The egg search runs daily from Good Friday to Easter Monday, and little creatives will be able to get busy with ancient-gallery-themed arts and crafts, where kids can make their very own paper plate bunny, and peekaboo peg chick (April 1-6 and April 8-10).

And you can decorate your own Easter themed cookie for a small charge (April 3-6), while history fans of all ages will also enjoy being able to get hands-on with replica and original artefacts.

Visitors can also enjoy so much more that the space has to offer; from playing Parlour Games in the farmhouse and peeking into the world of toys over the years, to taking a stroll along the popular Street of Shops with their original facades from stores once active in our towns.

You’ll also gain an understanding of farming habits locally, and can see some wonderful examples of yesteryear transport, including a Sinclair C5, a canal barge, a fab array of wheelie great bicycles, and even a fire truck from the turn of the last century.

The Easter holidays are also a great time to visit and investigate the Ancient Gallery, and if the day’s activities leave you eggs-hausted, the Museum’s Granary Tea Room will have a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks for an energy boost.

Pay once and you can visit the Museum as often as you like, for free, for a whole year.

For more information visit miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Mums can enjoy fantastic adventures with loved ones when Gulliver’s Land serves up a special Mother’s Day Weekend.

For Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 entry to the Milton Keynes theme park will be free for each adult who is accompanied by one full-paying child (over 90cms in height).

It promises to be a wonderful weekend of family fun, with resort mascots Gully and the gang helping create magical memories for mum to treasure.

Gulliver’s Land has 50+ magical rides, attractions, shows and activities to entertain mum and the family.

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

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “What a fantastic first event weekend of 2026 this promises to be! Our special weekends aimed at mums, dads and grandparents are always incredibly popular and the team can’t wait to open the gates and make sure families – in particular the mums! – enjoy an exciting and fun time at Gulliver’s.”

You can save money if you book your tickets in advance, with tickets for each child from just £18 per person.

And why not turn your visit to Gulliver’s Resort into something truly special for mum by booking in for an overnight stay. The resort offers a variety of family accommodation options, including Princess Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn-themed lodges, and Woodland Lodges.

Gulliver’s Resort opens 10.30am-5.00pm on weekends and is also open during school holidays.

It 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

The MK Festival of Running is set take over the streets of Milton Keynes on Sunday 15 March, as runners of all abilities lace up for a day of fitness, community and celebration.

Starting and finishing at Xscape Milton Keynes, the popular event will see participants tackle distances including the 5K, 10K, half marathon and 20-mile race.

To help runners prepare for the start of their race or recover after crossing the finish line, Xscape Milton Keynes has partnered with Nuffield Health to host a free Runner Recovery Zone, situated in Xscape’s main atrium on race day.

Open to all participants, the space will be equipped with stretch mats, foam rollers and resistance bands, providing a dedicated area to stretch, cool down and recover. Nuffield Health PTs and trained staff will also be on hand to offer recovery advice and guidance on safe, effective stretching techniques, helping runners with muscle recovery and post-race wellbeing.

Nuffield Health is also offering a complimentary one-week gym pass, redeemable throughout March. The pass provides access to the club’s fully equipped facilities, including treadmills, resistance machines and free weights, plus a dedicated HIIT training area and a wide variety of fitness classes (bookable on the day, subject to availability). Runners can also enjoy the centre’s spa facilities for ultimate relaxation and recovery, including a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Participants can redeem their pass by submitting their details via the online form.

Participants and spectators at MK Festival of Running can also take advantage of the wide range of entertainment, dining and leisure experiences available at Xscape Milton Keynes. Exclusive on-the-day offers will be available, including 20% off at Taco Bell between 2pm and 5pm – the perfect opportunity for runners to refuel after the race. Visitors can also take advantage of 10% off at InstaVR Arena using the code MKRUN10, and 10% off open jump sessions at Gravity Active when presenting a valid race number before 6pm. iFLY Indoor Skydiving is also offering two flights for one person for £20, available to book here for midweek term-time flights until the end of March. Nando’s will also be on hand with samples of its popular natas, alongside a chance to win prizes and free treats.*

Dan Murphy, Centre Director at Xscape Milton Keynes, said: “MK Festival of Running is always a fantastic occasion for the city, bringing the community together through movement, motivation and celebration. This year, we’re proud to team up with Nuffield Health to offer a free Runner Recovery Zone, supporting participants with active recovery and helping them look after their bodies before and after the race.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the centre filled with finish-line smiles, recovery sessions and post-race celebrations, as well as the chance to enjoy everything Xscape has to offer after they’ve crossed the finish line.”

For more information about Xscape Milton Keynes, please visit:
https://xscapemiltonkeynes.co.uk/

*T&Cs apply. Please check with individual brands for full terms and conditions.

Milton Keynes City Council has confirmed that its highly anticipated free Midsummer Festival will return to the city this June for its third edition. 

The Midsummer Festival is a free, family-friendly celebration inspired by the summer solstice. Held on Midsummer Boulevard, which was famously designed to align with the rising and setting sun, the festival transforms the street and surrounding public spaces into a colourful stage filled with performances, creative workshops, live music, art installations, street food and plenty of activities for all ages. 

More than 14,000 people have enjoyed the festival so far and each year brings new ideas, new artists and new ways for communities to come together. The 2026 programme will take place on Sunday 21 June and is expected to be even bigger, brighter and more imaginative. 

To help shape this year’s festival, the city council is inviting artists, collectives and creative practitioners to submit proposals for a new commissioned artwork or supporting projects. Submissions should include bold, engaging and high-quality ideas that celebrate midsummer themes such as light, nature, connection and renewal. 

Projects should be suitable for outdoor public spaces, inclusive and accessible, and designed to bring people together through participation or shared experience. Proposals may include temporary installations, performances, digital or light-based works, interactive sculptures, immersive pieces or community co-created projects. 

Further information about the commission and details on how to apply are available on: https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/culture 

Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Cllr Shanika Mahendran said: “The Midsummer Festival has become a real highlight of our cultural calendar and a celebration of what makes Milton Keynes special. Each year it brings people together in the heart of the city for creativity, colour and fun. We are excited to see ambitious ideas from artists who want to help shape an unforgettable 2026 festival. This is a chance to create something joyful for the whole city to experience.” 

Earlier this year, Milton Keynes City Council announced Milton Keynes would be bidding to become the UK City of Culture 2029. This could bring millions of pounds of investment, boost local jobs and unlock new cultural opportunities for residents, businesses and young people. 

www.midsummer-festival.co.uk 

The Bradwell Windmill Project celebrates one of Milton Keynes’ most distinctive landmarks. Led by Milton Keynes City Council and made possible with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Milton Keynes Museum and the City Council, the project was launched in May 2025 and is running until the end of 2026.

Built around 1805, Bradwell Windmill is believed to be the oldest tower mill in Buckinghamshire and featured on many of the advertisements used to promote the New Town in the 1970s. The Bradwell Windmill Project involves major restoration of the mill itself, as well as an events programme inviting local residents to build a deeper connection with the heritage of the structure, the area, the natural environment and food heritage. This programme has been developed as a partnership between Milton Keynes City Council, Milton Keynes Museum, Living Archive MK, Milton Keynes Arts Centre and resident groups.

To the end of 2025, over 1,500 people had taken part in Bradwell Windmill Project’s events programme: from history and nature walks to story-telling events, craft activities and a community lantern parade. In 2026, many more events and activities are planned, most of which are FREE; full details can be found at:
www.bradwellwindmillproject.co.uk

A new film by Ryan Harvey features contemporary and archival images of the Windmill, interviews with the people involved in the Bradwell Windmill Project and information about what’s happening – view the film on the
Bradwell Windmill website.

Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Cllr Shanika Mahendran said: “It’s been wonderful to see so many people getting involved with the Bradwell Windmill project, it shows just how much this landmark means to our community. We’re really proud to be restoring the mill and creating events that bring people together to share stories, learn something new and enjoy the area’s heritage.”

Midsummer Place in Milton Keynes is set to welcome the arrival of spring in spectacular style with the launch of Wings of Wonder, an immersive celebration marking the unveiling of its stunning butterfly canopy installation.

Part of the centre’s Naturally Curious campaign for 2026, the launch event takes place on Saturday 7 March 2026. This free, all-ages event will run from 11:00am to 4:00pm within Midsummer Boulevard, offering a vibrant programme of entertainment, creativity and family-friendly experiences.

Adding to the excitement, the event will also host the first Midsummer Market of 2026, running from 9:30am to 7:00pm, bringing together an inspiring mix of local independent traders and artisans.

Wings of Wonder Highlights:

The unveiling of a dazzling butterfly canopy installation, symbolising transformation and the beginning of a naturally curious year at Midsummer Place

• Live entertainment on the Bandstand from Little White Lights, Manny and Amber Clxre
• Free face painting and animal mask-making workshops
• Butterfly stilt walkers bringing colour and energy to the Boulevard
• Interactive experiences and vibrant market stalls throughout the day

Midsummer Market – Stall Holders Attending:

The first market of the year will showcase a diverse collection of creative and artisan businesses, including:

3D Make Me – Custom 3D-printed models, toys and figures
Bubbles with Scent – Handcrafted natural skincare
Blissfully Broke – Children’s tracksuits
RaDiKo.Art – Paintings, coasters and art prints
Handmade by Betty – Resin jewellery and floral arrangements
Sally’s Jewellery – Sterling silver designs
Spiritual Glow – Crystals, incense and gifts
Lactodorum Whiskey – Whisky tastings and bottles
MG Perfumery – Affordable quality fragrances
Maggie Lou Crocheting – Crocheted goods and accessories
Maria Custom Portrait – Live watercolour portraits
Made By Parksy – Handmade bags, stationery and accessories
Pin & Giggle – Retro-inspired pins
Fern & Wild – High-end faux flower bouquets
Cheesecake to Go – Flavoursome hand-made desserts
Italian Indulgence – Italian street-food and authentic delicacies
Gifted Toybox – Quality wooden toys and soft teddies
Moorend Road Distillery – Flavoured gins blended with botanicals, citrus, warming spices and sherbet notes

Find links to each business here: Midsummer Markets | Midsummer Place

Together, the event and market promise a lively celebration of creativity, community and independent talent, offering visitors the opportunity to shop local, enjoy live entertainment and experience something truly uplifting in the heart of Milton Keynes.

MERKUR Casino UK, who have their headquarters in Milton Keynes, have committed a £100,000 donation to Momentum Children’s Charity that will be used to support families with seriously ill children. The donation marks a new partnership, that will span over a three-year period.

Momentum supports families across London, Surrey, and Sussex whose children are facing cancer or a life-challenging condition, offering personally tailored support to the entire family through their family support workers, both in hospital and at home. Momentum has grown significantly over the last 21 years, expanding their reach and impact across the hospitals and communities they work with. If the unthinkable happens, and a child dies, the charity has a specialist bereavement service called Momentum Echoes.

The funding from MERKUR will play a crucial role in supporting the charity’s future vision, helping Momentum deliver and expand a range of initiatives including opportunities for families to enjoy a day out on the charity’s riverboat or take a break in one of its respite cabins, offering space to rest, reconnect and create treasured memories.

MERKUR’s donations will also ensure that the charity can continue with Momentum Echoes, their bereavement support programme, which helps families navigate the unimaginable loss of a child.

MERKUR announced the partnership at the end of last year at their annual company conference. As demand for Momentum’s support grows, the impact made by MERKUR’s partnership comes at a time where making a positive difference to the lives of these families and children is vital.

Sarah Woods, CEO of Momentum Children’s Charity said: “We are delighted to be partnering with MERKUR Casino UK and are extremely grateful for their generous support. This partnership will allow Momentum to continue providing vital emotional and practical help to families who have a child with cancer or a life-challenging condition. Over the next three years, this support will enable us to reach more families and respond to the growing demand for our services. With the first donation already received, we can already see the difference this partnership is making.”

Commenting on the donation, Mark Schertle, chief operating officer of MERKUR Casino UK, said: “At MERKUR, we strongly believe that giving back to the communities we serve is important, especially when it comes to supporting those who are facing heartbreaking challenges.

Momentum Children’s Charity provides invaluable and exceptional support to the families and children affected by cancer and life-challenging conditions, helping them to cope more easily whatever the outcome. Their services provide essential counselling, creative therapies, experiences and respite breaks, all of which make a real difference in people’s lives. We are glad that our partnership, and donations to follow, will help Momentum continue their hard work and we are looking forward as to what lies ahead.”

Get ready for a night of razor-sharp wit, quickfire crowd work and jaw-dropping improvised rap as Comedy Cows stampedes back into The Venue MK on Friday 13th March.

Headlining the night is the one and only Abandoman, the award-winning improvisational rapper who turns audience suggestions into side-splitting, fully-formed hip-hop bangers on the spot. Blending stand-up, freestyle rap and musical comedy into a truly unique experience, Abandoman has wowed audiences worldwide with his lightning-fast rhymes and unpredictable energy. No two shows are ever the same – and that’s exactly how he (and the crowd) likes it.

Opening the show is actor and comedian James Redmond, bringing his trademark warmth and sharp observational humour to kick the night off in style.

Holding the mic as MC is the ever-brilliant Steve Bugeja, a master of audience banter and perfectly crafted punchlines, ensuring the laughs keep rolling from start to finish.

Completing the stellar line-up is rising talent Louie Green, delivering clever material and confident stage presence that marks him out as one to watch.

Doors open at 19:00, with the show starting at 20:00 sharp. Whether you’re a hip-hop head, a stand-up superfan, or just in desperate need of a proper Friday night out, Comedy Cows promises an unforgettable evening packed with big laughs and even bigger beats.

Tickets are available now via the Comedy Cow website: www.thecomedycow.co.uk

Early booking is strongly advised – especially on a Friday 13th… because the only thing scarier than bad luck is missing out on this line-up.

It was a night of fire, flavour and full-house celebrations as Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar marked its 10-year anniversary on Friday in truly unforgettable style.

Arguably one of the most recognised and awarded Indian restaurants in the region, Maaya has become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes’ dining scene over the past decade. The restaurant has been a finalist at the British Curry Awards and proudly won Best Asian Restaurant at the MK Food & Leisure Awards for three consecutive years, alongside many other industry accolades.

The milestone celebration welcomed guests, loyal customers, friends and partners, as well as the Mayor of Milton Keynes, James Lancaster, who joined the festivities.

The evening was nothing short of spectacular. Fire breathers lit up the night, Bollywood dancers brought colour and energy to the floor, and the powerful rhythm of a live dhol drummer created an electric atmosphere that had the entire venue buzzing.

Owners Mo Abdul, Leigh Strathearn, Jason Thorne and Imran Hussain thanked guests for their continued support over the years.

Leigh Strathearn gave a speech on the night and said:

“Ten years ago, we opened Maaya with a simple dream to bring exceptional Indian food and genuine hospitality to Milton Keynes. To see how far we’ve come, and to celebrate with so many familiar faces who have supported us along the way, honestly means everything. This isn’t just our anniversary, it belongs to our customers, our team, and the whole community.”

From its famous butter chicken and fresh-to-order naan to its vibrant atmosphere and loyal following, Maaya continues to blend tradition with modern elegance, and after a decade at the top, the team say this is only the beginning.

Here’s to the next ten years!

To book your Maaya dining experience go to: https://maayamiltonkeynes.com/

Milton Keynes Dons are delighted to announce that Stadium MK will play host to a prestigious international football exhibition match between the Korea Republic national team and the Ivory Coast national team on Saturday, 28th March (kick-off 2pm GMT).

This exciting fixture will bring two dynamic footballing nations to Milton Keynes, offering supporters the rare opportunity to witness elite international talent on UK soil.

The match underscores Stadium MK’s growing reputation as a world‑class venue capable of staging major global sporting and live entertainment events.

Neil Hart, Group CEO of Milton Keynes Dons and the Stadium MK Group, said:

“We are incredibly proud to welcome the Korea Republic and the Ivory Coast to Stadium MK.

“Hosting an international fixture of this calibre reflects both the quality of our facilities and the ambition of our organisation.

“We look forward to providing a fantastic experience for players, staff and supporters from both nations, as well as showcasing Milton Keynes on the international stage.”

With both teams taking part in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, Mexico and Canada, this match provides one of the last opportunities for players to impress before selection is made.

Tickets for the match are available from £15 per person and can be purchased here. Korea Republic are the designated home team, with blocks 29 and 30 allocated to supporters of the Ivory Coast.

Hospitality packages are also available here, priced from £74 per person.