Hello Summer 2025

SUMMER ! r e m m u s r o f t Get se

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS DAYS OUT 14-15, 17, 28, 31

MUSEUMS 16

It’s time to leave the sofa and get outside this summer, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the locality, as our 21-page summer guide proves...

Get out and enjoy!

IF: 2025 18-23

STAGE & THEATRE 24 & 25

COMEDY CRATE 26

t n ri tp o o F t s a L e h T e e s to p u Step

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he Patch MK is renowned for its picture perfect fields of floral fabulousness every summer, with an incredible 500,000 sunflowers and more than 50 million wildflowers set to provide a sunny welcome this year.

But those coming to enjoy the petal power provided by the Gurney family in 2025 will also see the results of a new partnership between The Patch MK and global artistic visionary, sculptor Erik Schmitz.

The Last Footprint is a collection of nine supersized sculptures, each one highlighting a species that is either endangered or vulnerable to extinction.

Featured creatures include the Giant Panda, Sumatran Elephant, Western Lowland Gorilla and Black Rhinoceros. Lesser-known endangered species the Californian Condor, European Eel, Amur Leopard, Hawksbill Turtle and Chinese Pangolin will also be available to view.

These stunning creations have been made using only sustainable and reclaimed materials, including timber from the Gurney farm in Milton Keynes and offcuts donated by Towcester-based Linnell Bros Timber Merchants.

The works will prove as enchanting to adults as they will to children, while shining a light on the fragility of the natural world, and the urgency to take steps to avoid catastrophic species loss.

“This is more than an exhibition, it’s a moment of reflection on how precious our natural world is and all of the resources on earth,” says Erik. “Each sculpture invites you Pics: katestoddartscott.co.uk

to pause and think about what we stand to lose, and what footprints we want to leave behind.”

The Patch MK works for families wanting to make summer memories together, art lovers looking to take in some awesome craftsmanship, and of course, nature enthusiasts.

Explore the flower fields, have fun in the sensory-rich maize mazes and let this new installation awaken a passion for action.

“We’ve always wanted The Patch to be about more than just a fun day out,” says Rosalyn Gurney. “It’s about creating meaningful memories, and this installation is exactly that. It’s beautiful, yes, but it’s also thought-provoking and deeply moving. We are looking forward to seeing these imposing sculptures against the backdrop of our gorgeous sunflowers as they go through their lifecycle from bud to bloom.”

The Patch MK is open daily throughout the summer holidays. A general admission ticket provides access to all of the aforementioned attractions. > For a blooming great day out, check in with thepatchmk.co.uk 2

July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

This Giant Panda forms part of The Last Footprint – a collection of nine super-sized animal sculptures

Parkland Play returns to the new city

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he Parks Trust has events across the new city to tempt you, and we’ll start with something you can really sink your teeth into – Flavour Fest.

Taking place at Willen Lake, this fun-time for foodies will deliver a range of street food stalls, and a bar will be available at the on-site cafe. Music will soundtrack your visit.

Getting hands on at a Parkland Play session

Entry is free – but parking charges apply. Flavour Fest runs on July 5 & 6, from 11am – 5pm.

Nature challenges are offered every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at Howe Park Wood (9.30am-12.30pm) throughout the school holidays, with each week offering a different theme, from winged wildlife to minibeasts and lots more in between.

An Inclusive Stroll at Ashland Lake (July 9) is designed for all ages and abilities with accessible routes and facilities ensuring everyone can discover some of the hidden gems of MKs green spaces, and the Trust’s Parkland Play sessions are back to keep children from being bored!

Each session – running from midday to 3pm – will deliver crafts, face painting, soft play equipment and various activities, including sports, lawn games, and sensory experiences.

Meet a Roman Centurion at Bancroft Roman Villa – August 16

The Community Ranger led events will be hosted at Oakgrove (August 6), Caldecotte Lake (August 13), Stanton Low Park (August 20) and Fairfields (August 27).

If you’ve ever wondered, ‘What did the Romans ever do for us?’ find out directly by delving into the new city’s ancient past, with a chance to experience Roman life at Bancroft Roman Villa (August 16, midday-4pm).

Travel back in time with a tour of the villa remains, take part in crafts and activities, join the Roman Army and interact with a Roman soldier.

Fancy building your own fort? Step forward and do just that, before knocking it down with a hand built catapult. Fun for families and children, and free to attend. > Search more: theparkstrust.com

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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Summer Fun at the MK Museum

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ilton Keynes Museum is open throughout the summer holidays for family fun, and plenty of it!

Set within old farmland just outside Wolverton, this is THE Museum dedicated to the ancient and the modern history of the new city.

It tells the story of MK long before the new town became a sketch in town planner notepads and it explores how things have developed through interactive and hands-on exhibits.

Take a stroll down the street of shops with its original facades of many former stores

from the area, learn about transport through the centuries, visit the Victorian Parlour, play games from the era, and then check out the work involved on wash day before washing machines and tumble-driers!

The Museum’s toy room will enchant all ages, and don’t forget to enjoy the summer sun in the extensive green space the Museum is situated in - bring your own picnic or pop into the Granary Tea Room for sustenance.

While there, you simply must grab a selfie with the original Concrete Cows!

Over in the Ancient Gallery you can get close up with a mountain of bones, check out the newly restored 180 million year old MK resident, Iggy the Ichthyosaur, and explore the rich Roman heritage from the area.

Each week during the holidays, craft activities will be offered, and at the Museum you pay once and can visit as often as you like for a whole year, for free, which is lucky because there’s so much to see.

On July 19, the Museum will hold its first MKM Culture Fest, a chance to celebrate the many cultures present across the new city, with an all-inclusive event.

Meet local groups, try out activities in the workshops while seeing firsthand the work carried out by some of our many community groups. Tease your tastebuds with new foods, and enjoy lots of entertainment; dancing, singing and storytelling will all feature. > For more information visit miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Kids can get hands-on at MK Museum

Come and feel the power of the Gladiators

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orthampton Museum & Art Gallery always has a varied, colourful programme to share with you, and this summer is no exception – with attractions spanning the history of gladiatorial fights through to an immersive murder mystery game!

We’ll start with the current exhibition, Gladiators of Britain, which is showing some of this country’s most important objects which tell the story of these ancient entertainment venues, and it’s a chance to learn more about the people who died to the roar of the crowd.

‘It will reveal the violence of the arena, and the importance of spectacle within Roman culture.’

The Colchester Vase – loaned by Colchester Museums – depicts a battle 4

between two real gladiators, and the only confirmed piece of gladiatorial armour from Roman Britain, the Hawkedon Helmet, are among the items displayed.

From the ancient to the decidedly current, and Cardboard Clues: Murder in the Museum is an opportunity to try out your detective skills to solve a series of curious and whimsical mysteries.

Making use of a companion app, you will explore the museum, uncovering clues and life-sized cardboard characters – will they be a suspect, witness or victim?

This sharp way to put your problem-solving abilities to the test is ideal for families, friends or anyone with a curious mind. Are you in?

Lasting anywhere between one and two hours, you will have three cases to solve from a vandalized moustache to a victim flattened by an ancient sarcophagus!

July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

Gladiators in combat – The Colchester Vase

Slots are timed, and only one phone is needed to play Cardboard Clues.

Both the exhibition and the game are running through to September 7. > For more information visit northamptonmuseums.com

th a p ’s n to p m a h rt o N f o re Fi t a re Follow the G

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on interactive trail

n interactive trail allowing users to follow the path of the 1675 Great Fire of Northampton is now available to download on both Apple and Android phones.

The augmented reality trail, commissioned

by Northampton Town Council as part of this year’s 350th anniversary of the blaze, can be found by downloading the ‘Explore Northampton’ app and choosing the ‘Great Fire Trail.’

Visitors to the town centre can step back in time to the fateful day in September 1675 when the fire started, and be guided along the trail by following narrated instructions on their phones, hearing from virtual characters who tell their stories along the way.

The trail is marked out with handy floor stickers to guide users and five educational boards complementing the trail are located around All Saints’ Church on Mercers Row and Wood Hill.

The fire was a major event in Northampton’s history that shaped much of the town centre seen today in terms of street layout and historic architecture. Many of the historic locations on the trail still exist, so

users will find history brought to life before their eyes as they walk along the fire’s path of destruction.

700 of the town’s 850 buildings were destroyed in the fire, leaving many homeless and 11 dead. All Hallows’ Church (the present day All Saints’) was burnt to the ground, along with many other important structures.

The trail launch marks the start of an exciting five-month programme of special activities and events telling the story of the fire and the rebuild that followed, delivered by local cultural and historical groups and partners including the town council, West Northamptonshire Council and Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District.

The trail was created for the town council

by Northampton-based AR Media, who also manage the Explore Northampton app.

Scan the QR code to download the app and access the trail, starting at St Mary’s Street Northampton, by the Castle Hill Church (NN1 2RN).

> More information about the Great Fire 350 anniversary and the Great Fire trail can be found on the town council’s website: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/ greatfire350

The Great Fire Trail

Embark on a virtual trail that highlights key locations affected by the fire. Local actors bring the stories to life, beginning on St. Mary’s Street, moving up to Gold Street, around the Market Square and ending outside the Guildhall.

Download the “Explore Northampton” app to your phone to access the trail and experience the gripping tale of The Great Fire through immersive storytelling.

Find out about the other planned events by downloading the Explore Northampton App

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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18-27 July

10 Amazing Days IF you’re ready for something extraordinary...

IF: Milton Keynes International Festival will transform central Milton Keynes over 10 amazing days in July.

Get ready for a feast of live music, circus shows, comedy, cabaret, outdoor and large-scale events, installations and free family activities – all happening in surprising and unusual locations across Milton Keynes.

Find full programme details at ifmiltonkeynes.org @IFMKfest #IFMKfest Founded and produced by

Supported by

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In association with

09/06/2025 09:09

It’s Time for

Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk

l! a v ti s e F l a n o ti a rn te In s e n y e IF: Milton K

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he brilliant IF: Milton Keynes International Festival returns this summer for 10 glorious days, from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 27.

Prepare for a feast of creativity and unforgettable experiences across Milton Keynes!

The Festival is packed with everything from jaw-dropping installations and captivating performances to spectacular outdoor shows, circus thrills, comedy,

A Night with La Voix

mesmerising cabaret, live music and heaps of free fun for the whole family.

Over the next few pages, you can discover some of the highlights of this years Festival.

Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare

Festival information You can find details of all events and sign up for updates on the Festival website at ifmiltonkeynes.org To book tickets, call the Festival box office on 01908 280800 or book online at ifmiltonkeynes.org Klub Girko: Human Time - Tree Time

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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… ts n e v E l a v ti s e F le b a s is m n U 5

1. Deabru Beltzak: Symfeuny Date: Friday 18 July, 9.45pm Location: Procession starts at Xscape, Marlborough Gate, MK9 3XS and ends at Campbell Park Bulbfield, MK9 4AT FREE EVENT Prepare for an electrifying start to this year’s Festival as innovative rhythms, breathtaking special effects and fiery pyrotechnics converge to generate an irresistible surge of energy.

Renowned Spanish street theatre company Deabru Beltzak will set off from Xscape on a mesmerising pyrotechnic and drumming procession that climaxes with a spectacular stage show finale in Campbell Park.

2. Les Colombes (The White Doves) Dates: Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July, 10am-11pm daily Public dove-making workshops, 11am–3pm Sound and light show, 9pm–11pm Location: Middleton Hall, centre:mk, MK9 3EP FREE EVENT Michael Pendry’s multimedia artwork Les Colombes (The White Doves) has embarked on an incredible worldwide journey, from San Francisco to New York and Mumbai — and now it arrives in Milton Keynes.

This spectacular installation explores the bonds that tie us together and the delicate balance between individual freedom and collective belonging. Its clear message of peace resonates on a deeply personal level, prompting questions about freedom and the hope for a better future.

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Les Colombes (The White Doves)

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Deabru Beltzak: Symfeuny

3. Mars Dates: Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July The Open University Monday 21 – Sunday 27 July Church of Christ the Cornerstone, 300 Saxon Gate, Milton Keynes Check Festival website for all opening times.

FREE EVENT Imagine gazing down upon the stark beauty of Mars.

Luke Jerram’s stunningg artwork, Mars, makes this possible. This expansive sevenmetre sphere uses detailed 120dpi NASA photographs to bring the red planet to life.

At a scale of 1:1 million, each centimetre

Luke Jerram: Mars

on the internally illuminated surface corresponds to 10 kilometres on Mars.

The artwork offers a unique aerial perspective, allowing you to study the intricate details of Martian valleys, craters, volcanoes and mountains as if you were orbiting above.

4. Architects of Air: Terceradix Dates: Thursday 24 – Sunday 27 July Check Festival website for opening times.

Location: Campbell Park, Milton Keynes Tickets: £6, under-16s £5, family of four £20 Step into a world of pure colour and light!

For more than three decades, Architects of Air’s luminaria have captivated audiences, drawing more than three million people into their monumental, walk-in sculptures.

Architects of Air: Terceradix

These immersive experiences owe their vibrant colours to the simple magic of daylight filtering through the fabric.

Terceradix is their brightest and most colourful yet. Its maze-like structure, reminiscent of a futuristic space station, features soaring domes and winding paths, where organic shapes and diverse architectural influences merge in a breathtaking display of design and engineering.

5. Transe Express: DNA, Vertical Odyssey Dates: Friday 25 and Saturday 26 July, 9.45pm Location: Secklow Gate, D3 Car Park (near The Point), Milton Keynes Tickets: £7.50, under-16s £5 Don’t miss this year’s large-scale Festival spectacle!

French theatre company Transe Express deliver a stunning and enchanting

Transe Express: DNA, Vertical Odyssey

performance that will leave audiences of all ages spellbound.

Gravity-defying climbs, hypnotic aerial artistry and exhilarating circus skills unfold high above you in the night sky.

Driven by an electrifying live soundtrack, this incredible demonstration of teamwork is a must-see, promising an unforgettable and dramatic highlight of the Festival’s closing weekend.

Win a Family Ticket for DNA Vertical Odyssey To win a family ticket (up to 4 people, one of whom must be a responsible adult), answer the following question.

Where is the DNA, Vertical Odyssey event taking place?

Email your answer to: mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Subject: IF:2025 Competition along with your name, address and contact telephone number.

Closing date: Friday 18 July

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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y il m a F e h t ll a r o f n Festival Fu

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oth weekends of the Festival are full of fantastic free, pop-up shows and experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

Highlights include:

NoFit State Circus: BAMBOO Dates: Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July Locations: performances at Campbell Park and centre:mk Check Festival website for times FREE EVENT BAMBOO is a breathtaking outdoor circus show using only bamboo and human bodies.

The whole show becomes an animated circus installation with moments of beauty and poignancy, impressive feats of strength and agility and elements of physical comedy.

NoFit State Circus: BAMBOO

Pagrav Dance: One Sky

Osadía: Whose Hair Dares

Dates: Saturday 19 July, 1.15pm & 6pm Locations: Campbell Park, Milton Keynes Check Festival website for times FREE EVENT

Pagrav Dance: One Sky

One Sky brings the spirit of India’s kite festivals to life, filling the sky with colour and joy. Choreographed by Urja Desai Thakore with designer Simon Daw, this large-scale outdoor spectacle celebrates togetherness, happiness and the beauty of shared experience.

Half A String: The Lost Colour and Space Chickens Osadía: Whose Hair Dares Dates: Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 July Locations: performances at Campbell Park and Midsummer Place Check Festival website for times FREE EVENT The sculptural quality of hairdressing becomes theatre in the barber chairs of Osadía. Dare to take a seat and have your own locks styled into an outlandish hair sculpture by Osadía’s performers.

Or watch in amazement as your fellow audience members return from the barber chair transformed.

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Date: Saturday 26 July, 11am & 3.20pm Location: Campbell Park, Milton Keynes FREE EVENT Award-winning visual theatre company Half A String bring their brand of breathtaking puppetry, beautiful storytelling and original music to the Festival.

11am The Lost Colour… join Malcolm Brushell, professional painter and amateur alchemist, on his quest to find the pinky-est pink paint on the planet!

3.20pm Space Chickens… Earth’s unlikely hero: an adventurous chicken who is blasted into space to solve all our planet’s problems.

July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

Half A String theatre company

t n e lt e g ie p S s le b a t The S Location: Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT Located at the heart of Festival Central, The Spiegeltent offers an exotic and intimate venue for the Festival’s live music, comedy and cabaret programme.

Its stunning construction, featuring intricate wood, vibrant stained glass, plush velvet drapes and dazzling mirrors, creates a captivating atmosphere. Complete with its own bar, it’s a true Festival centrepiece.

The Stables Spiegeltent – Festival Central Lou Sanders

Higlights of the programme include: The Noise Next Door: Freewheeling Friday 18 July, 6.45pm No gimmicks, no tricks — just the UK’s quickest, wittiest improvisers putting on a show to make you laugh like nobody’s business (for ages 16+).

Yuck Circus Friday 18, 8.45pm and Saturday 19 July, 2pm Forget everything you thought you knew about circus – this is a revolution. Expect jawdropping acrobatics, side-splitting comedy and a whole lot of attitude. (for ages 14+) The Demon Barbers Saturday 19 July With multiple awards under their belts, including the BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Live Act, The Demon Barbers have captivated audiences across the UK and beyond.

Yuck Circus

The Selecter

Lou Sanders Sunday 20 July Much-loved comedian and Taskmaster champion Lou Sanders comes to the Festival with an extended headline set! (for ages 16+).

The Selecter Wednesday 23 July Led by the incomparable Pauline Black OBE, legendary 2-Tone pioneers The Selecter bring their infectious energy and iconic hits to The Spiegeltent.

Peat & Diesel Thursday 24 July Straight from the heart of the Western Isles, Peat & Diesel bring their infectious ‘Peatlemania’ to Milton Keynes.

Prepare for a night of unforgettable tunes, stories that’ll have you laughing and an atmosphere that’s pure, unadulterated craic.

Lucy Spraggan Friday 25 July Singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan’s unique blend of folk, indie-pop and acoustic sounds paired with powerful and emotive lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide.

Roachford Saturday 26 July Ever since Cuddly Toy reached number four in the charts back in 1988, Roachford has become one of the most compelling rock and soul artists the UK has produced.

Family performances Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall Sunday 20 July Join DJ Monski Mouse and her dancers for this award-winning, epic session of bopping, bonkers, beautiful fun. Expect high-energy smiling to retro beats and thumping nursery rhymes (for ages 5 and under).

Scoot Theatre: Quentin Blake’s Mrs Armitage on Wheels Thursday 24 July In their lively stage adaptation of Quentin Blake’s classic tale, Scoot Theatre present a 40-minute interactive, energetic show featuring live music, puppetry and physical comedy celebrating the joy of getting outdoors and being active.

How to get tickets...

Tickets for all Spiegeltent shows are available from the Festival box office on 01908 280800 or online at ifmiltonkeynes.org

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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Summer sessions with Dragons and Monsters

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oyal & Derngate have some lovely opportunities with their Holiday Club catering directly for little people aged four to eight years, with Dragon Masters (August 4-8).

Participants will be able to explore and hone their creative skills on this week-long course which makes use of storytelling, theatre and crafts.

Underground is the hosting venue for this dragon-themed camp where youngsters can let their imaginations run wild.

A second Holiday Club session will welcome young adventurers aged between nine and 13.

Become the hero of your own story at the Myths, Legends and Monsters sessions

Myths, Legends and Monsters (August 11-15) is an ‘epic experience exploring Gods, heroes, monsters and mayhem’ and at the end of the week, children will become the hero of their own legendary story. > Each weekly session runs from 9am to 5pm daily. For more information visit royalandderngate.co.uk

Dragon Masters will allow participants to hone their creative skills

y a lid o h is th y lit a u q r a st r ei th sh a le n u Let them

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Joe McElderry back in the fold, this time starring as The Pharaoh in the awardwinning show.

This was the first major collaboration

by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

It worked out pretty well, wouldn’t you say?

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat returns to the MK Theatre stage (August 6-10) with X Factor winner

The theatre presents its alternative to school holiday blues with the return of its Musical Theatre Summer School (August 4-8). Open for ages eight to 14, this is an opportunity to let youngsters sing and dance their way through the day, every day for a whole week.

The course cost includes a ticket to watch a matinee performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

atchy tunes and music is a given with the arrival of children’s favourite, Tom Gates Live On Stage!

Based on the books from the colourful mind of Liz Pichon, this new extensive tour promises to deliver ‘pure fun for the whole family whether you’ve a love of the books, love the TV series (or both!) or you’re new to Tom and his friends!’

Tom Gates Live On Stage! Visits Milton Keynes Theatre on Sunday, August 3, with performances at 12.30pm and 3.30pm.

Participants will also be the star in their own production; creating a ‘Show in a Week’ that they will perform to family on the final afternoon.

Email for further information to mkcreativelearning@ atgentertainment.com

Pic: Manuel Harlan

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical visits the theatre (September 3 September 7) with an electrifying night out as standard.

Based on the book series which has shifted an incredible 180 million copies worldwide, the musical puts NYC teen Percy in the spotlight, a boy whose life takes a dramatic turn when he learns that he is the half-blood son of the Greek god, Poseidon.

With newly discovered powers he is unable to control, an unwanted destiny and a whole textbook’s worth of mythical monsters on his trail, Percy must learn what it means to be a hero.’

A show ready to bring ‘Olympian energy’ to everyone aged eight years and over.

The Lightning Thief comes to Milton Keynes Theatre in September

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Helping tmorrow’s talents realise star quality today – at the Musical Theatre Summer School

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> To book for a performance, visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes *Prices correct at time of print

Hunker down for storytelling time

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he charming setting of Delapré Abbey is being utilised this summer, with some cool live music events (see Pulse Music), and a number of other opportunities to make the most of the historic site.

Take a trip to explore the house and the chance to get hands-on with many objects, every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, between 11am and 4pm.

Preacher the Storyteller will be delivering interactive storytelling with Time (August 13, midday-3pm) in the Walled Garden.

Pack a picnic, bring everyone together, remember your blankets and chairs and make tracks!

Storytelling aside, there will be live music, Preacher the Storyteller will be present a bubble machine and picnic games. Did in the Walled Garden at Delapré Abbey someone say prize giveaways too?! > If you want in, visit delapreabbey.org Catch Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in Milton Keynes – August 6-10

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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Get your fill of funny with a Crate night out

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ast year’s mammoth session was a bit of a blinder, and so it’s of no surprise that the fine folks behind the Comedy Crate Weekender have been busy assembling another fantastic line-up to tickle the funny bones and turn frowns upside down for the return of the mammoth session this July 12 and 13.

In all, 25 acts will be taking mics and holding attention across a trio of the town’s most loved venues; The Black Prince, The Charles Bradlaugh and The Lamplighter.

This special weekend, heavy in talent, is a chance for comedy fans to check out Edinburgh Fringe Previews and Work in Progress shows.

Snag a weekend ticket and the price works out at a ridiculously smart £4 per session.

Performances will last for an hour with halfhour intervals (presumably to relax aching facial muscles) and an hour-long break for food.

Performers? Big names waiting to stand up for you include Rosie Jones, John Kearns, Darren Harriott, Tom Rosenthal, Chloe Petts, Nick Helm and Mark Simmons, with many more to come.

“We are incredibly excited to bring back the Comedy Crate Weekender in our home town of Northampton,” organisers Mike Chase and Kj Bradshaw said in a statement. “This festival offers a fantastic opportunity for comedy enthusiasts to see top-tier acts in an intimate setting, experiencing the creative process as they develop new material.

“It’s an unmissable event for anyone who loves live comedy, there’s a real community feel to it. So let’s have a laugh whilst supporting local venues and the live arts!”

Pics: Stuart Hogben Photography

The Charles Bradlaugh are hosting the event along with The Black Prince and The Lamplighter

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July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

Maisie Adam led the way with a new show at last year’s Comedy Crate

> Visit thecomedycrate.com/ northamptontickets /weekender2025

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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Summer adventures await at Wicksteed Park!

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oin us from the 19th of July until the 2nd of September for summer fun the whole family will love.

Dive into days filled with family thrills by taking a spin on our exciting rides, explore our animal attractions or test your golf skills with a game on our newly refurbished crazy golf course, Pig ‘n’ Putt.

Our wristbands start from just £22 when booked in advance, giving you unlimited access to over 25 rides and attractions.

There are also family wristband bundles available starting from just £56 for a family of three!

The famous Wicksteed Park Railway

Splash down on the log flume!

Children under 0.9m get to experience the joy of Wicksteed Park this summer for FREE with an accompanying paying adult.

Don’t miss out on a summer full of excitement and unforgettable moments, book your summer adventure online NOW by heading to wicksteedpark.org If rides and attractions aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy a full day in the park with over 281 acres of land including lush parklands, meadows, lakes, sandpits and free playgrounds to explore.

You can also grab a bite to eat or treat yourself to something sweet from one of the food outlets

on site with options ranging from refreshing ice cream and tray bake treats, to pizza and hotdogs.

Rides and attractions may be closed for maintenance or may not operate during inclement weather. The Garden Wheel may be closed for ongoing maintenance. Please check our website for the latest availability updates.

Wicksteed Park’s regular parking charges apply. Separate charges apply for Wicky’s Play Factory.

Please check Wicksteed Park’s terms and conditions via our website before booking.

y e b b A ré p la e D t a n fu f o r e m m u s a Enjoy

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his summer, Delapré Abbey is the place to be! With a packed programme of events ranging from music festivals to live theatre, there’s truly something for everyone. We’ve rounded up 5 exciting activities you can enjoy on the stunning grounds of Northamptonshire’s very own Delapré Abbey…

1. Preacher the Storyteller Bring the whole family for an enchanting afternoon on Wednesday 13th August with Preacher the Storyteller. Enjoy a picnic in

Summertime Live brings four stages of live music and DJs

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Delapré Abbey’s beautiful Walled Garden, complete with live music, a bubble machine, and immersive storytelling. Find a cosy spot, settle in, and let the magic of story time transport you.

2. Outdoor Theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Join The Three Inch Fools on Monday 25th August at 6pm as they bring Shakespeare’s most iconic comedy to life in a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud performance under the summer sky. On Midsummer’s Eve, deep within an enchanted forest, feuding fairies, runaway lovers, and a band of hilariously hopeless actors collide in a tale of magic and mischief.

Celebrating their 10th anniversary, The Three Inch Fools promise a riotously fun evening filled with music, mayhem, and unforgettable characters – all led by the mischievous Puck.

3. Summertime Live On 19th July, Delapré Abbey will come alive with four stages of live music and DJs, headlined

by Ministry of Sound Ibiza Anthems. With performances from Sigma, Nathan Dawe,

July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

So Solid Crew, Blazin’ Squad, Switch Disco, and many more, it promises to be an unforgettable celebration of sound and summer.

4. Car Boot Sales Looking to declutter or discover hidden gems? Delapré Abbey will be hosting regular car boot sales throughout the summer – starting at 8am – 12pm. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy, sell, and browse in a picturesque setting.

5. Afternoon Tea Treat yourself to a delightful selection of homemade cakes and savoury bites — including The Orangery’s famously fresh-baked scones. Choose to enjoy your traditional Afternoon Tea in the Abbey’s historic Billiard Room or the peaceful Walled Garden. Best of all, it’s available all summer long.

And so much more – including an outdoor cinema screening of Grease! > To find out more about your Delapré Abbey summer, visit delapreabbey.org

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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Summer at The Park

Luxury with a side of sunshine WHERE SUMMER LUXURY MEETS COUNTRYSIDE BLISS …

ESCAPE TO WHITTLEBURY PARK, YOUR PERFECT SUMMER SANCTUARY. Whether you're unwinding with a sun-soaked spa day, teeing off under blue skies, celebrating love with a summer wedding, or savouring dining at its finest, every moment is designed for relaxation and indulgence.

From refreshing getaways to unforgettable family staycations, make this summer one to remember at Whittlebury Park.

£10 off your total Afternoon Tea bill

*Voucher must be brought to the booking in order to be redeemed

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July 2025 | Hello Summer 2025 | For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

BOOK HERE

Visit us for Afternoon Tea from June to September 2025 and receive £10 off your total bill*

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Say ‘Hello’ to Lamport Hall

O

ur summer events always feel special as visitors soak up the atmosphere and tranquillity of our gardens at a variety of outdoor events. There’s nothing quite like a picnic in beautiful surroundings to make it feel like summer!

On Saturday 12th July, Illyria’s production of Jane Austen’s glorious social comedy, Pride and Prejudice, has been brought back to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. In a whirlwind of balls, dinners and very eligible officers, Lizzy Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy stand alone as the only sane, thoughtful people - and they hate each other. Enjoy a pleasant evening in the Walled Garden.

The following day, the summer cultural entertainment continues with the Tame Valley Stompers returning for an afternoon of jazz in the gardens. Pack your picnics, gather a group of friends and relax in a quintessential English garden.

Another newcomer to our innovative 2025 events calendar is the Lamport Hall Quilting and Sewing Show on the 18th, 19th and 20th July brought to us by Grosvenor Shows. Featuring quilt displays from acclaimed quilters and textile artists, a variety of exhibitors selling patchwork and quilting supplies for all your needs and demonstrators on hand to show you their

techniques and to give help and advice, it’s sure to be an enjoyable day out for all crafting enthusiasts.

Our final opportunity this year to visit the gardens at No need to shout about it! The Silent the weekend is on Disco will rock your world on August 9 Saturday 26th July when we open for the National Garden Scheme Open Day. After a very successful return of outdoor 100% of the entry fee on the door will go cinema to Lamport last summer, we are towards the wonderful charities that the delighted to be offering a screening of Wicked National Garden Scheme supports. on the 2nd of August. Enjoy one of the films of 2024 with a glass of wine and a box of gourmet popcorn in front of the magnificent backdrop of Lamport Hall’s main façade. The gardens will also be open for you to peruse before the screening starts, giving a rare chance to see them in ‘golden hour’.

Put on your headset and don your best pair of dancing shoes for the first ever Silent Disco at Lamport Hall on the 9th of August! Come along for a family-friendly disco between 2pm and 5pm with two channels and then an 18+ event from 7pm with three channels. Immerse yourself in music for a magical summer’s evening you won’t want to miss. Our wireless headphones provide the freedom to dance while preserving the tranquillity and serenity There will be 10 acres of formal gardens, of the gardens. With three simultaneous including our beautiful walled garden and channels, revel in eclectic music choices including chart hits, retro classics and an our woodland walk to explore. We will entire channel dedicated to Taylor Swift from also have our Stables Cafe open offering the brilliant Swiftogeddon! homemade cakes, artisan coffee and Finally, we also have an interesting indoor light lunches, our gift shop open, and exhibition throughout August open on plants and cut flowers for sale.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking Wednesdays and Thursdays. Enjoy a display of historically accurate replicas of gowns outdoor exhibition to attend, we are worn by each Tudor Queen in their portraits, honoured to be hosting the Royal included in a house entry ticket.

Geographical Society ‘Earth Photo’ The Hall and gardens continue to be competition. The exhibition will be open every Wednesday and Thursday for open every Wednesday-Friday from the Hall and gardens and on Fridays for the the 23rd of July to the 28th of August gardens only. Our gift shop is also open on and will feature photos that tell a story about the environment and geography Wednesdays and Thursday selling a variety of gifts, souvenirs and toys. Our café is open Stuck in ice by Romain Loubeyre – with accompanying interpretation. every Wednesday-Friday, 9am-4pm. part of the ‘Earth Photo’ exhibition > Visit www.lamporthall.co.uk

Marvel at the beauty and decoration of the Tudor Queen’s gowns on Wednesdays and Thursdays in August

The Tame Valley Stompers will get your feet tapping on July 13

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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: s e iv d y k s to s e p lo s w o From sn MK’s coolest icon turns 25

M

ilton Keynes isn’t exactly famous for its mountains. Or its thrill-seeking culture. Or, let’s be honest, anything involving snow that’s not a gritted pavement. But that all changed in 2000, when an enormous spaceship-like building landed on the skyline and quietly whispered (or rather, bellowed): “Fancy a ski?”

And just like that, Xscape Milton Keynes was born.

Fast-forward 25 years – yes, a whole quartercentury – and what was once a futuristic playground for the brave and the bored has become one of the most loved destinations in the city. Actually, scratch that: in the region.

Possibly the planet. (Okay, maybe not the planet, but we’re feeling nostalgic.)

From Bonkers Vision to Brilliant Reality

It’s wild to think now, but back in the late ’90s, when Friends ruled the TV and dial-up internet was the height of tech, someone had the vision to put a real-snow ski slope and a skydiving tunnel under one giant, steel-curved roof in the middle of Buckinghamshire.

And people thought roundabouts were the weirdest thing about MK. As the centre’s archival construction images show (cue the satisfying steel skeleton shots), this wasn’t just a building – it was an engineering marvel. The roof alone required over 5,000 tonnes of steel, bent and bolted with all the precision of a Swiss watch. And Happy 25th birthday that dramatic front facade? Nope, not giant Xscape Milton Keynes! vents or elevators – they’re stairs. Honestly, it’s full of surprises.

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Today, the centre stands 44 metres tall – second only to Hotel La Tour – and stretches across 60,000 square metres of retail, food, fitness, and full-throttle fun.

A Birthday Bash Worth Bragging About To mark its silver milestone, Xscape did what it does best: put on a show.

During May half-term, the place transformed into a birthday wonderland, offering 25% discounts, prizes, and a chance to size yourself up against celebs and characters on the ever-popular “Wall of Tall.” (Spoiler: You’re not taller than Chewbacca. But it’s OK.) And while the balloons have been popped and the bunting’s packed away, the legacy of that celebration – captured in family selfies, Insta reels, and maybe a few souvenir bruises from enthusiastic sledgers – lives on.

A statement of a city’s growing confidence as much as a building

Still Cool, Still Changing You might think a place like Xscape would rest on its snowy laurels. But not this lot.

The centre is constantly evolving, hosting everything from adaptive sessions for SEN guests to community art installations like

the heartwarming Tree of Pride. The cinema was the first in the UK to feature 4DX and Superscreen tech, and you can now get your brows done, post a parcel, and smash an escape room all in one trip. Because why not?

Dan Murphy, Centre Director and fulltime hype man, puts it best: “Xscape has become a place where memories are made, friendships are formed, and generations have come together.”

We couldn’t agree more.

So, What’s Next?

If the last 25 years have taught us anything, it’s this: Xscape doesn’t sit still. There’s already talk of new attractions, bold ideas, and yes, probably more adrenaline. And with that famous swooping roof still shining proudly over Central MK, one thing’s for sure: This isn’t just a building. It’s a beating heart of fun, frozen flakes, and flipping good memories.

So if you haven’t been in a while, now’s your moment. Dust off the ski boots.

Embrace the nostalgia. And go remind yourself why Xscape Milton Keynes is still the coolest thing this city’s ever seen.

The Xscape Milton Keynes during its mammoth construction

s e n y e K n to il M e p a c s X t u o b a 25 things you might not know 17 Opened in 2000 – celebrating 25 years in 2025!

1

The building stands 44 metres tall (that’s four double-decker buses high).

2

It’s the second tallest building in Milton Keynes.

3

The site spans 60,000 sqm – equal to 5.5 football pitches.

4

5

iFLY is the UK’s first purpose-built indoor sky diving tunnel. iFLY generates wind speeds of up to 165mph.

6

Xscape sits in a city with over 9 130 roundabouts.

The big front funnels? They’re stairs, not cooling ducts.

10

sibling lives up north – hello, 11 Xscape’s Xscape Yorkshire.

More than 40 shops, eateries, and 12 activity centres live inside.

Includes services like Amazon Hub 13 Locker, bike repairs, and brow bars.

Each iFLY flight lasts about 14 55 seconds – longer than a tandem sky dive.

The ski slope? 170m long, 60m wide, and filled with 1,500 tonnes of snow.

7

The building was designed by 15 FaulknerBrowns.

8

16 Running starting line.

Cineworld was the first UK cinema with 4DX and Superscreen experiences.

It’s home to the MK Festival of

Escape Hunt’s fastest time?

23 minutes and 4 seconds.

Features adaptive and SEN sessions 18 across several activities.

The “Wall of Tall” lets you compare 19 heights with celebs and creatures.

Hosts the Tree of Pride community

20 art installation.

The Wetherspoon pub is named

21 after George Orwell’s ideal: The Moon Under Water.

Less than an hour from

22 London Euston by train.

23 Just 5 minutes off the M1.

Built with more than 5,000 tonnes 24 of steel.

Offers SignLive video relay 25 for BSL users.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | Hello Summer 2025 | July 2025

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