Things to do in Milton Keynes, a local guide from Destination MK
We've collaborated with Destination Milton Keynes, the official tourism and information service, to highlight our top things to do when visiting the city.
Photo by Matthew Wall
Experience reigns supreme in Milton Keynes, from thrilling activities, first-rate entertainment, culture, sports and shopping; there is plenty to see and do in this exciting city.
So, whether you’re planning an overnight stay or just looking for something new to do this weekend, check out our top recommendations for a visit to Milton Keynes:
Take in a show at Milton Keynes Theatre
Photo by Stuart Williams
Milton Keynes Theatre is one of the region's leading venues, showcasing the very best of the West End and touring productions from across the UK.
From a yearly pantomime running throughout the festive season to musicals, drama, comedy, opera and more. Milton Keynes Theatre is a fantastic place to take in a show.
Push your limits at Xscape Milton Keynes
Photo by iFLY Milton Keynes
Anything is possible at Xscape Milton Keynes, a year-round indoor destination for leisure and entertainment.
At Snozone, you can ski and snowboard on real snow at any time of year. At iFLY, you can simulate skydiving in their purpose-built wind tunnel. Visit Gravity Active for wall-to-wall trampolining fun. Then when you’ve tired the family out you can catch a movie in Cineworld's 4DX theatre or enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants.
Watch a game at MK Dons Football Club
Photo MK Dons FC
Stadium MK, one of the best stadiums in the UK, is a fantastic way to spend a day in Milton Keynes. With regular season attendance of 10,000+, MK Dons FC boasts one of the nation's fastest-growing fan bases.
MK1 Shopping and Leisure Park is located next to Stadium MK and features well-known high-street fashion retailers, a cinema and a variety of popular restaurants all within the same complex, so why not come watch a game and make a day of it?
Shop till you drop at Centre:MK
Photo by centre:mk
With hundreds of brands under one roof, centre:mk, located in the heart of Milton Keynes, is one of the UK's top shopping destinations.
There is a diverse selection of popular high street shops and restaurants, as well as an events space, which serves as a central hub for a variety of free activities each month, from an annual Christmas display to local recruitment events.
Stop for lunch at The Hub
Photo by The Hub MK
Located in the very centre of Milton Keynes, The Hub is a bustling restaurant, café, hotel and entertainment area. Its fantastic location makes it the perfect place for either a night out or just a quick meal at one of the many cafés or restaurants.
At the centre of The Hub is its piazza, a multi-purpose, pedestrian-only open space that is surrounded by eateries and cafés, many of which have outdoor dining areas, making it a great place to spend a sunny afternoon or evening.
Soak up some culture at the MK Gallery
Photo by MK Gallery
The award-winning MK Gallery presents world-class exhibitions and events, as well as innovative learning and engagement programmes.
The new MK Gallery opened in 2019 and is inspired by Milton Keynes' unique design history.
Within the gallery the magnificent Sky Room provides breathtaking views of Campbell Park and beyond while bringing the best contemporary film, experimental concerts, thought-provoking lectures and comedy nights to the city centre.