Families searching for something to keep the children entertained over half-term will soon be able to step inside a pop-up world of science, creativity and hands-on fun at The Brunel Swindon.
The shopping centre is once again teaming up with the Festival of Tomorrow to host the “Swindon Imaginarium” — a free week-long programme of arts, crafts, experiments and interactive activities aimed at children and families.
The temporary attraction will take over Unit 13 Plaza, next to High Score Arcades and Blue Banana, from Monday 25 May until Saturday 30 May, running daily between 10am and 4pm.
Organisers say the space has been designed to encourage families to explore, create and discover together in a relaxed setting, with activities ranging from practical science experiments to arts and crafts sessions.
Louise Halliday, Head of Programming and Outreach for Festival of Tomorrow, said the project aimed to spark curiosity while opening conversations about the future.
“Swindon Imaginarium will transform a space in The Brunel Swindon, where science and the arts collide, with free hands-on activities and workshops designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and conversation around the ideas and innovations shaping our future,” she said.
The project has been funded through the Sustainable Futures Programme, supported by the Community Benefit Fund linked to the Science Museum Group Wroughton Solar Park and managed by the Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation.
Visitors will also be invited to contribute ideas towards Swindon’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2029 by sharing their hopes and ambitions for the town’s future.
Previous Festival of Tomorrow events hosted at The Brunel have attracted large crowds, with hundreds of families attending earlier pop-up activities and workshops.
Alongside the main activities, free facepainting will also be available from Monday to Friday during half-term week, with optional donations collected for charity.
A spokesperson for The Brunel Swindon said the centre was pleased to welcome the event back once again.
“We are thrilled to once again be hosting the team from Festival of Tomorrow,” they said.
“Their events are a big hit with our shoppers and visitors, and we’re excited to see what Swindon Imaginarium will bring.”
