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Milton Keynes Theatre reveals it’s Winter/Spring 2022 season

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Milton Keynes Theatre has today announced its Winter/Spring 2022 season with a programme of outstanding shows, shaping next year into one of the biggest in the theatre’s history. 

Since it’s reopening in July 2021, Milton Keynes Theatre has seen a joyous return of live audiences, safely welcoming over 100,000 people through its doors to enjoy 42 quality shows. Here’s what the leading live entertainment venue has in store for 2022. The new year will see the final few performances of the highly anticipated, GIANT of a pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, which opens on Sat 11 Dec and closes on Sat 8 Jan.

Ashley Banjo and Diversity with Pete Firman and Gina Murray in Jack and the Beanstalk at Milton Keynes Theatre

From 11 January, everyone’s favorite creepy and kooky family are back in town. The Addams Familystars Strictly Come Dancing icon Joanne Clifton as the dark and mysterious Morticia. The spectacular musical comedy comes from the writing team of multi award-winning hit musical Jersey Boys, with music and lyrics by Tony award nominated Andrew Lippa.

Milton Keynes will be the third city in the UK to experience the dazzling show which dominated theatre award ceremonies from its original production in 1982 to its West End debut in 2017. The long-awaited UK tour of Dreamgirls arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre for two weeks from 25 January to 5 March starring The Voice semi-finalist Nicole Raquel Dennis and Milton Keynes actress Natalie Kassanga.

Bringing some rock and roll to your February afternoons and evenings will be the electric School of Rock. Relive the face-melting music from the beloved film and enjoy Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new hits delivered by a band of insanely talented kids. Rock out with the band from 8 to 12 February.

Jersey Boys UK & Ireland Tour. Credit Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff

Jersey Boys UK & Ireland Tour. Credit Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff

From 23 February to 5 March, the stage sensation Jersey Boys returns to Milton Keynes Theatre’s stage. The smash hit musical goes behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Welsh National Opera will bring a trio of operatic delights on their return to Milton Keynes. Powerhouses Don Giovanni and Madam Butterfly take to the stage between 22 and 26 March while Katie Mitchell’s acclaimed production of Czech opera Jenůfa performs on 25 March.

The scrumptious candy-coated Nutcraker! Credit: Johan Persson

2022 will also welcome two spectacular ballet productions; the scrumptious candy-coated Nutcraker! from choreographer Matthew Bourne in February, and in May Northern Ballet take us back to the roaring 2020’s with The Great Gatsby.

For one night only, audiences can enjoy Strictly Come Dancing stars Kevin Clifton in Burn The Floor(17 January) and Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice in their dance extravaganza Him & Me (17 July). On 13 March, laugh out loud to Friends! The Musical Parody, a hilarious good-hearted romp with everyone’s favourite New Yorkers.

Moving towards the spring season, Milton Keynes will host a handful of phenomenal plays, including psychological thriller Catch Me If You Can (from 5 April) starring Dallas legend Patrick Duffy and brand-new stage play Cluedo (from 30 May) based on the family favourite boardgame.

Following a sell-out run in 2019, Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Les Misérablesreturns to Milton Keynes for a stunning four-week residence from 26 April. And the UK premiere tour of Bat Out of Hell rolls into town from 14 June, bringing to life the legendary anthems of Jim Steinman & Meat Loaf.

Never full or satisfied, I am always willing to try new things and visit new places. Lover of food and all things FAST - Not necessarily fast food. If I am not in the office, you can find me near a track or under a car. I also work with great people in TrendLife's Editorial team.

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Found Festival Set To Return to Buckinghamshire in 2026

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Found Festival 2026 returns to Claydon Estate, Buckinghamshire, after a dazzling debut. Enjoy grassroots music, family fun, and early bird tickets.

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:

  • Elles Bailey delivering soaring country soul.

  • Talisk impressing with jaw-dropping virtuosity.

  • The Longest Johns bringing rousing sea-shanties.

  • Honeyfeet captivating with soulful ferocity.

  • Comedy from Robin Ince, Marcel Leconte, and rising star Chelsea Birkby.

  • 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.

Found Festival 2026 returns to Claydon Estate, Buckinghamshire, after a dazzling debut. Enjoy grassroots music, family fun, and early bird tickets.

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:

  • Supporter Tier: Pay a little more to help subsidise reduced tickets.

  • Standard Tier: Covers the base cost of producing the event.

  • 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.

Found Festival 2026 returns to Claydon Estate, Buckinghamshire, after a dazzling debut. Enjoy grassroots music, family fun, and early bird tickets.

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.

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Christmas at Waddesdon Manor 2025: Explore Europe in Lights

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Christmas at Waddesdon Manor 2025: The Ultimate Festive Light Trail and European-Themed Experience in Buckinghamshire

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.

Christmas at Waddesdon Manor 2025: Winter Light trail

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:

  • Venice in the East Gallery

  • Paris in the Dining Room

  • Geneva in the White Drawing Room

  • Bavaria in the Billiard Room

  • 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:

  • A tunnel of lights

  • An 8-metre tall Pole Tree glowing with festive patterns

  • Interactive displays that respond to sound and movement

  • Giant golden gift boxes made for festive selfies

  • 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.

Christmas at Waddesdon Manor 2025: The Ultimate Festive Light Trail and European-Themed Experience in Buckinghamshire

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.

Christmas at Waddesdon Manor 2025: The Ultimate Festive Light Trail and European-Themed Experience in Buckinghamshire

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.

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The Stable Bar Opens at Tewinbury Farm Hotel in Hertfordshire

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Discover The Stable Bar at Tewinbury Farm Hotel — a new wine bar in Hertfordshire serving sustainable wines, small plates, and live jazz by the river.

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.

Discover The Stable Bar at Tewinbury Farm Hotel — a new wine bar in Hertfordshire serving sustainable wines, small plates, and live jazz by the river.

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:

  • Acoustic Thursdays fill the bar with laid-back live music and summer vibes.

  • Fizz Fridays invite you to toast the weekend with special sparkling wine offers.

  • DJ Saturdays turn up the tempo as day turns to night with curated DJ sets.

  • 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.

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