If you go down to Milton Keynes Museum this August, you can be sure of a big surprise – the history hub is hosting a fabulous new event: a Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

Visitors are invited to bring your favourite teddy to the Museum for the day, for lots of bear-illiant fun – for them and for you!

The event – running on August 12, 13 and 14 – will include storytelling sessions, a Museum trail to seek out the famous bears found around the Museum, and a Teddy Bear zipline – hook them up and watch them go.

All Ted’s who complete the course will take home a certificate.

The Nature Trail will be open, and appropriately themed, ‘We’re going on a bear hunt,’ and you can make your own paper plate bear in the always-popular craft sessions.

Unfortunately, one cuddly bear has lost his nose – luckily you can play the pin the nose and get him looking smart again, and how many gummy bears are in the jar?

Guess the correct amount and you’ll win the pot of sweeties.

There will be the chance to guess the name of another Ted too. Get it right and you’ll have a new furry pal to take home.

If Ted is feeling under the weather, a trip to the Museum pharmacy will soon get him or her feeling paw-some once more.

And, of course, the Museum’s ample green space is the perfect place to sit down with your family, friends and furries for a picnic.

“It’s a super fun new edition to our summer season and will appeal to children of absolutely all ages.” said education officer Ellie Megram, “We can bear-ly contain our excitement about this event!”

All the usual Museum attractions will be open; visit the Ancient Gallery to see how our ancestors lived and worked, go window shopping in the Street of Shops, and make your way around the Farmhouse, which includes the Story of Childhood and an opportunity to get hands-on with toys from yesteryear.

From Victorian survivors to Fuzzy Felt, Fisher Price toys to those Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and so much more.

Pay once and enjoy unlimited visits to the Museum for a whole year.

Visit https://miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk/

Unity Place is launching a summer programme of family-friendly activities this August, headlined by free photography workshops for children and teenagers and a free family film screening, alongside creative experiences, family offers and activities throughout the school holidays.

The summer programme is headlined by a series of free photography workshops delivered in partnership with Pixel Affiliate, and a free family film screening in the Urban Food Market. The photography workshops, taking place on 11, 18 and 25 August, have been designed to inspire the next generation of creatives.

Aimed at young people aged 8 to 17, the one-hour sessions will introduce beginners to the creative possibilities of photography through practical, hands-on activities in a relaxed and supportive setting. Separate workshops for ages 8–12 and 13–17 will ensure each session is tailored to the age group taking part.

Families can also enjoy a free screening of Hoppers on the big screen in the Urban Food Market on Monday 11 August from 11am. Open to all with no booking required, the screening is designed as an easy, family-friendly morning out, with plenty of space to settle in, and food and drink available for those wanting to stay on for lunch afterwards.

The summer activity programme is designed to give families flexible options across the holidays, whether they are looking for a free activity for a morning, something creative for older children, or a simple way to spend time together in the city centre.

Families visiting Unity Place during the holidays will also be able to make the most of a dedicated children’s menu in the Urban Food Market, available across the summer period. Children will be able to choose from pizza or other child-friendly options, while the adults can enjoy the full range of food available at the Urban Food Market, making Unity Place the perfect place to stop for lunch this summer.

Families can also enjoy drop-in terrarium building workshops with Tiny Terra on 4 and 20 August between 11.30am and 2.30pm on the Mezze in the Urban Food Market. With no booking required, children can create their own miniature terrarium from just £5.

ROK Barbers at Unity Place is also helping families get ready for the new school term by offering boys’ and girls’ haircuts for children under 13 throughout the summer holidays for just £15.

Maisie Stanford, Senior Marketing and Communications Executive at Unity Place, said: “We know the summer holidays can be a juggle for families, so we wanted to create a programme that offers a few easy, affordable ways to spend time together in Milton Keynes. From a free film screening to creative photography workshops, it’s all about giving families something enjoyable to dip into across the holidays, with food and drink on hand and a relaxed environment in the city centre.”

Located just a short walk from Milton Keynes Central station, Unity Place has built a regular programme of family-friendly activities during the school holidays, alongside its wider calendar of events, food and drink offers and community activity.

Full details of upcoming family events at Unity Place can be found at https://www.unityplace.co.uk/whats-on-milton-keynes/

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.

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 newest Lindt 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 Director added: “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. 

A colourful and family‑friendly sculpture trail is coming to Milton Keynes city centre this summer, with the launch of Elmer’s Art Parade – thanks to MyMiltonKeynes.

Inspired by the much‑loved children’s book character Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, the trail officially launches on Saturday 11 July and will run throughout the school summer holidays. The event sees 12 Elmer sculptures installed at key locations across Milton Keynes City Centre, transforming public spaces into a vibrant outdoor gallery.

Designed to engage children, families and visitors of all ages, Elmer’s Art Parade encourages exploration, movement and discovery throughout the city centre. Participants will be invited to follow the trails, uncovering each uniquely designed Elmer while experiencing different areas of the city along the way.

The trail forms part of MyMiltonKeynes’ ongoing commitment to boosting footfall and increasing dwell time across multiple city‑centre zones. By installing eye‑catching sculptures and memorable moments, Elmer’s Art Parade is expected to generate strong social media engagement, helping to amplify Milton Keynes’ profile organically through shareable content. The launch also comes as Milton Keynes celebrates being longlisted for UK City of Culture 2026, further highlighting the city’s growing cultural ambition and making this the perfect moment to introduce a vibrant, family‑friendly art trail.

Jill Farnsworth, representing MyMiltonKeynes, said: “Elmer’s story is all about celebrating difference and recognising that being unique is something to be proud of, and that message really resonates with Milton Keynes. We’re not like other cities and that’s exactly what we love about this place. Elmer’s Art Parade allows us to showcase that uniqueness and transform our city centre into a colourful and memorable art gallery during the summer months.  It is part of a wider programme of standout city‑centre events being developed by the BID, that will create genuine excitement, draw people in and help establish Milton Keynes as a place known for big, memorable experiences.”

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder, Wild in Art, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Elmer’s Art Parade to Milton Keynes this summer in partnership with MyMiltonKeynes. This much-loved story has a unique ability to spark imagination across generations, and this trail turns that magic into a captivating, outdoor experience for the whole community.

Our trails are designed to bring people together, encourage exploration, and create moments of joy in everyday spaces. As families discover each beautifully designed Elmer sculpture, they’ll enjoy a trail that’s fun, imaginative and bursting with creativity.”

You can DOWNLOAD OR VIEW THE BOOKLET or CHECK THE ELMER’S ART PARADE MAP

With the big school holidays fast approaching, The Parks Trust’s summer events are perfectly lined up to keep everyone entertained whatever the weather!

Make the most of longer days and luscious landscapes with an exciting programme of outdoor activities and events taking place across Milton Keynes’ parks.

Summer Holiday Open Mornings

Every Tue, Wed & Thu at Howe Park Wood | 9.30am-12.30pm

Free nature activities for families, exploring the ancient woodland and learning about the wildlife that lives in Milton Keynes’ parks. Visit again and again to enjoy different weekly themes including Marvellous Minibeasts, Super Creatures, Nature Games, Wildlife Warriors and more. Plus, some weeks feature ticketed sessions such as bug hotel building – book these online before you visit to avoid disappointment!

Home to endangered animals and plant species, Howe Park Wood is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England for its wildlife value.

Golden Summer Picnic

Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30-4pm

Relax into a lazy afternoon at the orchard, with friends and family. Pack a blanket and tasty treats to enjoy a summer picnic surrounded by the sights, scents and sounds of summer in this historic orchard celebrating 50 years feeding the community.

Butterfly Strolls

Wed 22 July in Ouse Valley Park | 1pm
Thu 6 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 6pm

Ever spotted a blue butterfly and didn’t know what species it was? Want to take part in The Big Butterfly Count but don’t know your Painted Ladies from your Peacocks? Transform your skills on an introductory butterfly identification stroll and help to record the species living in the parks!

Community Volunteering: Meadow Makers
Sat 25 July in Campbell Park | 12-2pm

Join The Parks Trust to help give hogweed the heave-ho! This’ll boost native species in the wildflower meadows of Campbell Park, perfect for pollinators like bees and butterflies!

Parkland Play Sessions | 12-3pm
Wed 5 August in Oxley Park, Wed 12 August in Waterhall Park, Wed 19 August in Glebe Farm & Wed 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa

A series of inclusive summer play sessions in neighbourhood parks! Enjoy face painting, crafts, animal encounters, storytelling sessions, and exciting water safety games with The Parks Trust’s Community Rangers.

Community Volunteering: Orchard Haven Build
Sat 8 August at Woughton Community Orchard | 10am-12.30pm

Get hands-on with nature to help construct essential hibernacula and bug hotels to provide safe and cosy winter homes for wildlife like hedgehogs, amphibians, reptiles and insects.

Walk & Talk: Wildlife Wander
Tue 11 August in Waterhall Park | 2pm

Book now to explore this secret slice of greenery, sandwiched between two waterbodies in one of Milton Keynes’ lesser-known parks. This event offers a fantastic way to discover what species might be living right on your doorstep!

Family Bat Walk
Fri 14 August at Great Linford Manor Park | 8.15pm

Led by a knowledgeable guide and equipped with a bat detector, you and your family will venture into the park around sunset to learn about the incredible bat species living in Milton Keynes. You’ll listen out for the incredible sounds of bats whilst you discover the differences between species found in the area – and hopefully have the chance to spot them in flight! Limited spaces, booking required.

Orienteering with South Midlands Orienteering Club
Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30pm-4pm

Join the South Midlands Orienteering Club at Howe Park Wood for a challenging outdoor adventure sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

Love Wetlands Day
Fri 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 12-4pm

A fun-filled afternoon discovering and celebrating the wetlands of Milton Keynes. Take part in themed crafts and activities, learn about habitats and the fascinating creatures living in them, meet local wildlife groups and enjoy some tasty treats.

International Bat Night
Sat 29 August at Howe Park Wood | 6.30-9pm

An evening celebrating the world’s only flying mammal, with fascinating talks and activities led by The Parks Trust team and local societies before heading out into the park on a guided walk, using detectors to try and locate bats in flight! Limited capacity, booking required.

Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says “We can’t wait for another summer packed with fun and adventure in MK’s Parks, featuring loads of family-friendly events and activities to keep everyone entertained!”

Milton Keynes has over 40 different parks to explore and enjoy, with a huge choice of free play areas, walking and cycling routes, trim trails, and world-class outdoor artworks. There are many more activities and events in the city’s parks to take part in, including:

Woof Walk 25 July at Waterhall Park

Milton Keynes Barrio Fiesta 25 & 26 July in Campbell Park

Parks & Ride 26 July at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve

Community Litter Pick 27 July at Canal Broadwalk

MK Gospel Festival 8 August in Campbell Park

MK Weekender 14, 15 & 16 August in Campbell Park

Love Wetlands Day 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve

Arthur Ellis Mental Health Wellbeing Festival 23 August at Great Linford Manor Park

Community Litter Pick 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa

Inclusive Stroll 27 August at Furzton Lake

Woof Walk 29 August at Howe Park Wood

Milton Keynes Tribute Festival 29 & 30 August in Campbell Park

Parks & Ride 30 August in Ouzel Valley Park

Big Park Hangout 5 September at Willen Lake

For full listings, visit theparkstrust.com/events

The Parks Trust has announced the return of the much-loved Big Park Hangout, a free event designed especially for young people aged 11–17 and excitingly backed this year by a £10,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Taking place on Saturday 5 September, Big Park Hangout provides local teenagers with an afternoon packed full of music, sport, creative workshops, games and wellbeing activities, all set within a safe and relaxed outdoor environment.

Alongside entertainment and activities, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with organisations supporting young people, helping to build trust, confidence and awareness of the help available to them.

With youth provision under pressure, Big Park Hangout plays an important role in bringing young people together and strengthening community bonds. Ensuring a wide range of voices and expertise shape the event, Big Park Hangout is delivered in partnership with organisations including Community Action MK, the Youth Council, Milton Keynes Arts Centre, VICTA, Girl Pack, Arthur Ellis, CHUMS MK Young Carers and more.

Sandra Adjei, Events Assistant at The Parks Trust says: “Big Park Hangout is all about giving young people in Milton Keynes a free, welcoming space where they can spend time with friends, try something new and feel connected to their community. We know how important it is for teenagers to have safe spaces where they can build confidence, explore what the city has to offer and find out about the services available to them, and we’re really pleased to be bringing that opportunity back to Willen Lake this summer.”

The National Lottery Community Fund grant recognises the event’s strong alignment with priorities to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and empower communities.

For young people, families and community partners to find out more, visit theparkstrust.com/bigparkhangout

Join Salcey Forest for a day of family fun this summer with a special visit from Witch on 31 July & 1 August.

Witch will appear at intervals throughout the day – remember your camera for that all-important selfie!

What’s happening:

• Explore the Room on the Broom activity trail and meet Witch
• Enter our colouring competition for a chance to win a year’s Salcey Forest membership
• Face painting
• Fun activities including story telling, bubble art, build your own forest and broom making with Acorn Early Years
• Get active with challenges and games with Go Ape
• Ice cream from Gallones

There’s no need to book — just turn up and enjoy the fun.

Witch appearances and storytelling performances will take place throughout the day. Meet-and-greets are on a first-come, first-served basis and can get busy.

Can’t make the date? Don’t worry – their Room on the Broom trail is open all year round.

Room on the Broom © 2001 Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd.

A massive summer of sport in nearly here with the World Cup, Commonwealth Games and Wimbledon coming soon…and there’s no better place to build excitement ahead of the action than at Xscape Milton Keynes.

Whether you’re looking to get active, challenge your friends or simply soak up the competitive spirit, Xscape is the ultimate destination to gear up for an unforgettable summer. Packed with thrilling experiences, sporting inspiration and great places to eat, drink and catch the big games, there’s something for everyone under one gigantic roof.

Take on the challenge

Inspired by all the sporting action coming up this summer? If it’s got you raring to go and ready to challenge your nearest and dearest to a spot of friendly competition, we know just the place. It’s time to step up, get active and put your skills to the test at Xscape Milton Keynes! Planning a family day out or group visit? Don’t leave it to chance – book your adventure in advance to avoid missing out.

• Speed & reflexes
  Get your adrenaline pumping and put your reactions to the test with exciting competitive experiences at Xscape Milton Keynes. Step into immersive new worlds at InstaVR, where fast-paced virtual reality adventures challenge your coordination and focus, or head to Hollywood Bowl for friendly competition across bowling lanes, arcade games and glow bowling fun.
• Precision & focus
  Head to Volcano Falls Adventure Golf and put your focus and precision to the test. From immersive themed courses to competitive family fun, it’s the perfect way to spark some friendly rivalry inspired by the summer sporting season.
• Agility & endurance
  Bounce into action at Gravity Active, where high-energy challenges help build agility, coordination and stamina in a fun and fast-paced environment. Looking for even more adrenaline? Take on climbing challenges and action-packed experiences at Gravity Rocks, designed to keep the whole group entertained!
• Balance & confidence
  Feel inspired to try something new? Snozone offers the chance to sharpen your balance, control and confidence on real snow, whether you’re a complete beginner or already slope-ready. Ski lessons and slope sessions are incredibly popular during the summer months, so don’t leave your booking until the last minute. Or maybe learn to indoor skydive at iFLY Milton Keynes for an adrenaline rush like no other.
• Reaction & competition
  Funstation is packed with quick-fire challenges, leaderboards and competitive fun. Test your reactions, chase high scores and challenge friends and family to see who comes out on top in a fast-paced gaming environment designed for all ages.

Gear up like a Pro

Ready for summer adventures, but still need the gear to match? Whether you’re planning fun days outdoors, cycling adventures or active family weekends, Xscape Milton Keynes has everything you need to look and perform your best. Visit Ellis Brigham, Evans Cycles and Trespass for outdoor clothing, sporting essentials, adventure-ready accessories and expert advice before your next challenge.

Summer of Sport – Where to watch

You’ve built up your competitive spirit – now it’s time to enjoy the main event.

At Xscape Milton Keynes, Wing Kingz continues to be a go-to destination for live sport, flavoured wings and match-day atmosphere seven days a week, while at The Moon Under Water you can expect tasty food, cask ales and plenty of big-screen sporting action. Plus, don’t forget that MERKUR Casino will be screening live World Cup action throughout the tournament.

Planning to visit? Don’t leave it until the last minute – activities, dining reservations and group experiences are likely to book up quickly throughout the summer season.

Secure your spot, plan ahead and get ready for an unforgettable day out at Xscape Milton Keynes!

The Stables in Milton Keynes has announced details of Make My Music, a brand-new creative music programme designed for young people aged 12–14.

Taking place from Monday 20 to Thursday 23 July, the immersive summer programme invites young people to explore music-making through DJing, live beat creation, songwriting and world music workshops in a fun, supportive and inspiring environment.

Make My Music is open to any young person with a keen interest in music, but especially welcomes young people who have not had much chance to take part in practical and creative music-making. The Stables is also offering bursaries to help more of those young people who face barriers in attending to take part.

Running from 10am-4pm each day, Make My Music gives participants the chance to try new musical experiences, collaborate with others and build confidence through creativity.

Each day focuses on a different aspect of contemporary music-making:

• Monday 20 July – Turntablism: Introduction to DJing
  Participants will get hands-on with the fundamentals of scratch DJing and learn the basics of mixing and turntablism.
• Tuesday 21 July – iPad Live Beats: Perform and Create
  Young people will use free iPad music apps to create and perform their own live beats and electronic music.
• Wednesday 22 July – Sounds and Instruments From Around the World
  A practical workshop introducing instruments, rhythms and sounds from diverse musical traditions.
• Thursday 23 July – Creative Songwriting
  An opportunity for aspiring songwriters to collaborate, write lyrics and create original music together.

Young people can book individual days or attend the full four-day programme, with each day affordably priced at £40 per day, including lunch. No previous musical experience or instrument knowledge are required to take part.

The programme reflects The Stables’ ongoing commitment to music education and creative participation for young people across the region. Founded by Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine, The Stables has been championing access to music and the arts for more than 50 years.

Graeme Surtees, Head of Learning & Participation at The Stables, said:

“Make My Music is all about creativity, curiosity and giving young people the chance to explore music in exciting new ways. Whether they’re interested in DJing, songwriting, beats or discovering instruments from around the world, we want participants to feel inspired, supported and empowered to express themselves through music.”

Places are limited to 30 people per workshop and advance application is required.

For more information and to apply for a place CLICK HERE

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