One of Swindon’s most popular destinations is gearing up for a packed summer season, with a programme of events designed to entertain families, history enthusiasts, food lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Lydiard Park will host a wide range of attractions over the coming months, with everything from military displays and birds of prey demonstrations to open-air theatre, food festivals and live music planned across the historic estate.
The summer programme begins with Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 20 June, when visitors can enjoy a day of celebrations recognising the contributions of serving personnel, veterans and military families.
Taking place between 11am and 4.30pm, the event will feature military demonstrations, performances and opportunities to meet cadet groups and organisations that support the armed forces community.
Also on the same day, visitors to the Walled Garden will be able to get up close to some of nature’s most impressive hunters during the popular Birds of Prey event. Expert falconers will showcase the speed, agility and precision of a variety of birds while sharing insights into their behaviour and adaptations. A second Birds of Prey event is scheduled for September.
Families can also look forward to the return of Paulo’s Circus, which will pitch up at Lydiard from 19 to 28 June, bringing traditional circus entertainment to the park.
Meanwhile, art lovers will have the opportunity to celebrate the life and work of acclaimed Swindon artist Ken White during a special week-long programme at Lydiard House Museum. Running from 20 to 28 June, the event will feature exhibitions and activities honouring the artist, who died earlier this year.
July promises to be equally busy.
The Swindon Balloon Festival returns on 3 and 4 July following its debut last year, with organisers hoping for more favourable weather conditions after challenging conditions affected parts of the inaugural event.
Later in the month, audiences can enjoy an open-air performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet when Immersion Theatre brings the classic tragedy to the park on 25 July.
Visitors interested in local heritage can also take part in guided tours of Lydiard House during June and July, with cream tea included as part of the experience.
As the school holidays get underway, August brings an even broader selection of attractions.
The Great British Food Festival returns on 1 and 2 August, offering a feast of artisan producers, street food vendors, chef demonstrations, bars and family activities.
Open Air Theatre follows on 2 August with a family-friendly production of The Jungle Book in the picturesque surroundings of the Walled Garden.
For those seeking a more creative experience, a Summer Paint & Sip event on 5 August will provide participants with expert guidance to create their own artwork while enjoying a relaxed social atmosphere.
Mad4Animals also returns on 8 August after a successful earlier visit to the park. The event promises animal encounters, educational experiences and entertainment, with visitors able to meet a variety of creatures including snakes and spiders.
Throughout August, Lydiard House Museum will extend its opening schedule, welcoming visitors from Wednesday to Sunday and offering regular art and nature activities for families. A new museum mystery trail will also challenge younger visitors to solve puzzles as they explore.
The summer season concludes with the Lydiard Garden Party on 22 August, featuring live music, food and drinks in the historic Walled Garden. Performances will include local musicians Phoebe Appleby and Jason Boorman before a live DJ rounds off the evening.
Councillor Matthew Vallender, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Planning and Regeneration, described the venue as “the jewel of Swindon’s crown” and said the programme offered something for everyone throughout the holidays.
Councillor Jake Chandler, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council and Cabinet Member responsible for Country Parks, added that Lydiard’s unique setting makes it an ideal venue for large-scale community events.
With history, wildlife, theatre, food, music and family entertainment all on the programme, Lydiard Park looks set to be one of Swindon’s busiest destinations this summer.
