Events
Milton Keynes Theatre joins new campaign with 2-for-1 ticket offer
This week, UK Theatre launched Love Your Local Theatre, a new campaign encouraging the public to support their local theatres as they begin to recover from the impact of Covid.
Milton Keynes Theatre has joined over 100 theatres UK-wide have come together to join in on the effort and offer the biggest ever 2-for-1 ticket offer to National Lottery players who attend a show during the month of March.
- Milton Keynes Theatre has joined over 100 theatre’s UK wide for the new campaign, for which the National Lottery is providing up to £2 million to subsidise over 150,000 tickets across the UK.
- Throughout March, National Lottery players can get 2-for-1 theatre tickets for performances of shows including Jersey Boys, Chicago and Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever.
- Supported by TV presenter, Girls Aloud singer and star of the stage Kimberley Walsh, the campaign encourages the public to support local theatres as they recover from the pandemic. · Tickets are available to purchase now from www.atgtickets.com/loveyourlocaltheatre
- The campaign, run by leading theatre membership body UK Theatre and made possible by the support of The National Lottery, is providing up to £2 million to subsidise an estimated 150,000 tickets nationwide. National Lottery players are being offered the chance to buy one ticket and get another free for participating shows as a thank you for the £30 million they raise every week for good causes, including support for the performing arts and theatres during the pandemic.
This week, UK Theatre launched Love Your Local Theatre, a new campaign encouraging the public to support their local theatres as they begin to recover from the impact of Covid. Milton Keynes Theatre has joined over 100 theatres UK-wide have come together to join in on the effort and offer the biggest ever 2-for-1 ticket offer to National Lottery players who attend a show during the month of March. Click here for further info.
The campaign, run by leading theatre membership body UK Theatre and made possible by the support of The National Lottery, is providing up to £2 million to subsidise an estimated 150,000 tickets nationwide. National Lottery players are being offered the chance to buy one ticket and get another free for participating shows as a thank you for the £30 million they raise every week for good causes, including support for the performing arts and theatres during the pandemic.
From classic musicals and beloved plays to family shows, comedy, dance and more, Love Your Local Theatre has brought together local theatres from across the UK to give players the chance to experience the magic of live entertainment for less this spring, whilst giving back to their local entertainment communities.
In addition to the strong support from theatres across the UK, Love Your Local Theatre is also being supported by TV presenter, singer and Girls Aloud star, Kimberley Walsh, who has enjoyed performing at theatres and entertainment venues around the UK, many of which have received funding from The National Lottery.
Kimberley Walsh, TV presenter, Girls Aloud singer and star of the stage, said: “We are so privileged to have so many incredible theatres and entertainment venues across the UK. I have been lucky enough to perform in many of them. Without our local theatres, the face of UK entertainment would look very different and it’s amazing The National Lottery is providing £2 million to support them. The entertainment industry was particularly impacted by the pandemic, and that’s why the Love Your Local Theatre campaign is so important in supporting their recovery.”
Stephanie Sirr, President of UK Theatre, said: “We are delighted to be working with The National Lottery on Love Your Local Theatre, the first time UK Theatre members across the country have united for a ticket promotion of this scale. We should be hugely proud in this country to have such an extensive, vibrant and diverse range of regional theatres, all of which play a vital role in the theatre landscape of the UK and beyond. After such a turbulent two years, we want to shout about the fact that theatres are open and ready to reward audiences for their patience and loyalty – please visit your local theatre and help them continue to make brilliant creative work!”
Sir Matthew Bourne, Choreographer and Artistic Director of New Adventures, said: “My dance-theatre company New Adventures prides itself on being truly national, and touring is built into the fabric of what we do. As we continue on our current UK tour of Nutcracker!, visiting theatres across the country, I am reminded of how vitally important it is that we celebrate and protect our much-loved regional venues, especially during this crucial time for the theatre industry as it begins a long recovery from the ravages of the pandemic. I support the Love Your Local Theatre campaign, and hope it helps bring as many people as possible back to their local theatres for the thrill of live performance.”
The Love Your Local Theatre promotion is available to anyone who is a National Lottery player and possesses a National Lottery ticket. From today, players can purchase tickets at available performances taking place during the month of March. Participating performances at Milton Keynes Theatre include:
Jersey Boys Tue 1st March at 2:30pm & 7;30pm and Wed 2nd March 7:30pm
Chicago Tue 8th March at 7:30pm and Thu 10th March at 7:30pm
Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Tue 15th March at 10am and 1pm
After a spectacular debut in 2025, Found Festival is set to return to the scenic Claydon Estate, Buckinghamshire, for the August Bank Holiday weekend in 2026. Following a three-day celebration of music, culture, and community, organisers have announced a limited number of early bird tickets frozen at 2025 prices, alongside a new tiered ticketing system to ensure accessibility for all.
A Shining Debut in 2025
Born from the 60-year legacy of Towersey Festival, Found Festival’s first edition brought together grassroots talent and cultural discovery in a family-friendly setting. The event delivered on its promise of “head-turners, not headliners,” with standout performances across Americana, folk, world music, comedy, and wellbeing experiences.
Highlights included:
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Elles Bailey delivering soaring country soul.
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Talisk impressing with jaw-dropping virtuosity.
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The Longest Johns bringing rousing sea-shanties.
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Honeyfeet captivating with soulful ferocity.
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Comedy from Robin Ince, Marcel Leconte, and rising star Chelsea Birkby.
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Family fun with Professor Elemental’s steampunk antics and Nutty Noah’s acrobatic storytelling.
Beyond the stages, the festival site came alive with Ceilidhs, dance and craft workshops, circus artistry, stone-carving demos, nightly fire shows, silent discos, and a dedicated wellbeing programme featuring yoga, breathwork, and a wood-fired sauna overlooking the estate’s lake.
Building for 2026: Accessible Ticketing
Co-director Joe Heap reflected:
“Found is an event built with love, creativity, and a whole lot of hard work. We’re delighted with how our first year has gone, despite the challenges. It’s increasingly hard to run an independent festival, and none of it would have been possible without the incredible support of our community.”
To ensure Found 2026 remains accessible, a tiered ticket system has been introduced:
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Supporter Tier: Pay a little more to help subsidise reduced tickets.
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Standard Tier: Covers the base cost of producing the event.
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Supported Tier: A subsidised rate for those needing financial help (released once enough Supporter tickets are sold).
Only 300 early bird tickets are now available — with camping included — at 2025 prices, plus reduced caravan-pitch rates and unchanged hook-up fees. Interest-free instalment plans will also launch at the end of September.
Dates and Tickets
Found Festival 2026 takes place Friday 28th – Monday 31st August 2026 at Claydon Estate, Buckinghamshire.
️ Tickets available now via Gigantic.
Whether you’re drawn by grassroots music, family-friendly creativity, or the wellbeing sanctuary by the lake, Found Festival 2026 promises another unforgettable summer celebration.
We get it—it’s still autumn, and the last thing on your mind might be mince pies and fairy lights. But Christmas at Waddesdon Manor (running 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026) is no ordinary festive event. It’s an immersive, artful celebration of light, music, European charm and seasonal joy—all set in one of Buckinghamshire’s most stunning locations.
If you love Christmas and crave experiences that go beyond the usual markets and mulled wine, Waddesdon Manor’s Grand Festive Tour is calling your name.
Explore Europe in Lights at Waddesdon Manor’s Grand Festive Tour
The theme for 2025 is inspired by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild’s European travels—and his beloved dog, Poupon. With cutting-edge projection mapping lighting up the Manor’s historic façade, you’ll be transported across Europe in a visual journey featuring Paris, Vienna, Venice and more.
The show unfolds on the North Front with a continuous 25-minute immersive display that bathes the landscape in colour, music, and wonder. This is one for your camera roll—and your memory bank.
Step Into a Christmas Fantasy Inside Waddesdon Manor
Inside the house, selected rooms have been transformed into lavish tributes to Baron Ferdinand’s favourite European cities. Each space blends the Manor’s historic decor with bespoke Christmas styling and immersive storytelling:
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Venice in the East Gallery
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Paris in the Dining Room
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Geneva in the White Drawing Room
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Bavaria in the Billiard Room
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Vienna in the Breakfast Room
The experience wraps up with a giant snow globe installation, offering a magical finale to an already spectacular journey.
Discover the Best Christmas Light Trail in Buckinghamshire
Outside, Waddesdon’s light trail winds through illuminated woodland with new installations and returning favourites. It’s designed to surprise, delight, and immerse you in Christmas magic.
Look out for:
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A tunnel of lights
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An 8-metre tall Pole Tree glowing with festive patterns
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Interactive displays that respond to sound and movement
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Giant golden gift boxes made for festive selfies
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The return of the shooting star installation, a fan favourite from 2023
It’s a perfect evening stroll for couples, families and anyone looking for a dose of winter enchantment.
Shop Unique Christmas Gifts at Waddesdon’s Artisan Market
From 22 November to 14 December, Waddesdon’s popular Christmas Market takes over the South Front of the Manor. This is your go-to spot for discovering handmade gifts, local produce, and festive foodie treats.
Complete your visit with a stop at the Wine and Gift Shop, or explore the Christmas Shop in the Powerhouse for decorations, tableware, toys, and stocking fillers.
Christmas Fun for Children at the Coach House
One of the most charming parts of Christmas at Waddesdon is the Coach House display at the Stables. Created by local school children, this year’s theme is ‘Sounds of the Season’, exploring festive music and carols through imaginative, heartwarming installations.
It’s an unmissable stop for families, filled with creativity and holiday cheer.
Enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea or a Five-Course Christmas Feast
Dining at Waddesdon is just as spectacular as the decorations. Treat yourself to a Festive Afternoon Tea in the Manor Restaurant, or go all in with a five-course Festive Feast Dinner on select December dates (5, 12, and 19). Each dinner starts with canapés and sparkling wine in the wine cellar, followed by seasonal dishes paired with Rothschild wines.
If you want to extend the experience, book a stay at The Five Arrows Hotel (packages from £175 include event tickets), or head to The Bow for a cosy drink, hearty winter menu, and four-course Christmas Day lunch (£90pp).
Host a Stylish Private Christmas Event at Waddesdon
Planning a festive gathering or end-of-year celebration? Waddesdon offers unique venues across the estate, from the historic Manor and Dairy to the contemporary Windmill Hill. Whether it’s an elegant dinner, private hire, or lively Christmas party, these spaces bring festive flair and sophistication in equal measure.
Plan Your Visit to Waddesdon Manor’s Christmas Experience
Event Dates: 22 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire
Tickets: From £13 (adults) / £6 (children) – must be booked online in advance
Opening Times: Grounds: 12noon–7pm / House: 12.30pm–7pm
Late Night Openings: Saturdays – 22 & 29 Nov, 6, 13 & 20 Dec (Grounds until 8pm)
Book now at: www.waddesdon.org.uk/christmas
Don’t Wait for December – Book Your Christmas Experience Now
If you’re looking for a festive day out that blends history, art, luxury and seasonal charm, look no further than Waddesdon Manor’s Christmas celebration. It’s not just an event—it’s a destination. And it sells out fast.
Start planning now, beat the December crowds, and experience Christmas at its most magical—right here in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
The Stable Bar Opens at Tewinbury Farm Hotel in Hertfordshire
Just 30 minutes from London, Tewinbury Farm Hotel — Hertfordshire’s hidden gem — is now home to The Stable Bar, a striking new wine and events space that blends countryside charm with a touch of London cool.
Set on Tewinbury’s 700-acre working farm, The Stable Bar is more than a place to drink — it’s a destination. From the handpicked art adorning exposed brick walls (curated in collaboration with Common Room Projects) to its exclusive wine list from Humble Grape, every detail has been crafted to offer an experience that’s as stylish as it is soulful.
A Wine Lover’s Escape in the Countryside
The Stable Bar serves a thoughtfully curated collection of sustainable, organic and biodynamic wines from independent, family-run wineries around the world. Expect to find Old World classics from Bordeaux and Veneto alongside adventurous pours from the vineyards of North Macedonia, Bulgaria and beyond. Whether you’re discovering your new favourite orange wine or sipping on a familiar fizz, every bottle tells a story.
Paired with small plates, hand-stretched sourdough pizzas and seasonal sharing boards, the menu offers easy-going luxury in every bite — perfect for slow afternoons or intimate evenings.
Live Music, Riverside Views & Summer Events
The Stable Bar’s riverside terrace offers a scenic setting for every season — heated in the winter and open-air in the summer, with views over the tranquil River Mimram. Inside, deep sofas, ambient lighting and a warm welcome set the tone for weekend nights filled with live jazz and acoustic sets.
July brings a host of exciting events to the calendar:
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Acoustic Thursdays fill the bar with laid-back live music and summer vibes.
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Fizz Fridays invite you to toast the weekend with special sparkling wine offers.
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DJ Saturdays turn up the tempo as day turns to night with curated DJ sets.
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And for the early risers, Farmers Market Sundays feature local produce, artisan goods and fresh coffee to start your day the Tewinbury way.
One to Watch
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking for a refreshing countryside escape, The Stable Bar offers a unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary flair. With a packed summer schedule and an atmosphere that effortlessly bridges laid-back and luxe, it’s quickly becoming one of Hertfordshire’s most talked-about new openings.
TrendLife Magazine will be visiting The Stable Bar soon — stay tuned for the full review and inside look.
