Five Fab tips for getting the most this Christmas in Central Milton Keynes…..

It’s so hard to choose from hundreds of businesses within Central Milton Keynes, from leisure activities, restaurants to enjoy a meal in, bars to sample thirst quenching cocktails in, to top shop brands offering unique, beautiful gifts for your loved ones. We are showcasing our top 5 tips to finding the best locations for gifts, entertainment, eating out and generally enjoying festive Milton Keynes in the run-up to the big day and beyond.

1. Shopping in central Milton Keynes – we are lucky enough to have two fantastic shopping centres in the heart of our city. Park at either end, and make your way easily from one end to the other. Midsummer Place, (previously intu, the new bit or whatever you known this as in the past), is full of top brands bursting with gifts for every taste. Waterstones for your avid book worm, Apple for those tech savvy friends, Lego for the young and old, fashion brands from Superdry, Jack Wills to Hollister and even those music lovers with the recently opened Willen Hospice ‘Off the Record’. Centre:mk has John Lewis one end and Marks & Spencer the other and in between something for every age, taste, budget, and style. Indulge in those top brands, like Reiss, Mango & Oliver Bonas or for those more budget conscious shoppers head to Primark, Boots (3 for 2) & WH Smiths for great deals on fashion, books, and gifts. Feeling like you need an energy boost whilst shopping? There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and refreshment stops throughout both centres to rest those tired feet.

2. Food lovers – do you have someone you need to buy a gift for that loves food and eating out or are you looking to book your Christmas Party? Milton Keynes is so full of restaurants it really is difficult to choose where to go. Culinary delights from Italian, French, Turkish, Indian, South American, Chinese, and even that great steak; where do you start? If you are familiar with Milton Keynes, you know where to go, however for those visiting this is our tip. Head to The Hub for restaurants galore. Your only shop really in this area is Sainsbury’s. There are 3 hotels close by and between 15-20 food places to enjoy. Most are offering Christmas Party Packages and gift vouchers that make a great alternative gift for that special someone. Some of our favourites are Fabrice for breakfast, Las Iguanas for lunch and DeRoka for evening, however we are working our way around trying them all and genuinely there is something for everyone. There are also great restaurants in Xscape, including the famous Kobe Steak House and the independents like Namji, Sumac and the new Casa Centro.

Photo credit – The Hub

3. Get Active in Central Milton Keynes – looking for a Christmas team activity for a party or looking to buy a loved one a voucher to enjoy an activity later, we can help. Xscape is the location for activities galore, with Hollywood Bowl, Cineworld, Gravity and even Skiing and Flying. Yes, you can buy vouchers or take flight as a team activity at one of only four locations in the UK at iFLY. Most of these businesses offer gift vouchers, so check online or pop down to purchase that gift with a difference or even to book your Christmas party. Be quick to avoid disappointment. There are also a range of activities in 12th Street, close to MK Theatre, such as Mr Mulligans, Laser Quest and VR.

4. Say ‘He’s behind you this Christmas’ – Cinderella is heading to MK Theatre this festive season as the must-see panto. Iconic comedian Brian Conley will have you rolling in the aisles as he makes a triumphant return as Buttons after his appearance back in 2017. Christmas isn’t quite Christmas without some comedy boos and hisses at the wicked stepsisters. Cinderella audiences can expect laugh out loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, and plenty of fun. Tickets are going quick for performances pre-Christmas, but there is good availability post-Christmas and up to the closing date of the 14^th January 2024.

BOOK HERE 👠

5. Sparkles and Twinkly Lights – Milton Keynes City is lit with twinkly Christmas Lights and a huge Christmas Projection. Here are our top locations to visit:

• Outside Midsummer Place, above the MyMiltonKeynes office there is a huge moving projection with animation, sparkly baubles, and a classic Christmas tune. If you have not seen this yet, make sure you visit. Tag us in your photos/videos and post on social media.
• Middleton Hall – The Snowman has returned to centre:mk as this year’s Father Christmas experience. Even if you have not booked to see Santa here, make sure you visit this feast of lights and entertainment. A huge carousel, a colourful train, cute stalls selling unique gifts and a virtual sleigh ride are all highlights from this offering.
• Get out on foot and visit these key locations for light displays, Christ the Cornerstone Church, Midsummer Boulevard, the giant parcel outside John Lewis, a Christmas tree at Exchange Square and new this year, a tree at Milton Keynes Market.

Midsummer Place – plenty of photo opportunities here, from a giant Christmas Tree, a beautiful gold star and a snow globe. Make sure you tag @midsummerplace in your photos on socials. You can also vote for your favourite tree at their Christmas Tree Festival. Make sure you head down to Midsummer Place to check them out, as there are 18 to choose from. VOTE HERE.