Summer of events set to take over Lydiard Park
One of Swindon’s most-loved attractions is preparing for a summer extravaganza with a host of fun-filled events taking place over the next few months.
Published: Tuesday, 2nd June 2026
Lydiard Park will kick off its summer programme with Armed Forces Day taking place on Saturday, 20 June between 11am and 4.30pm. This celebration will offer a packed programme of activities, performances and family attractions, including military demonstrations and the opportunity to meet cadet groups and organisations supporting the armed forces community.
Taking place in the Walled Garden on the same day is the ever popular Birds of Prey event from 11.30am where attendees will be able to experience the thrill of nature up-close including breathtaking demonstrations of speed, agility and precision.
Expert falconers will also share fascinating insights into the behaviours and adaptations of these powerful birds. A second Birds of Prey event is also taking place on Saturday, 12 September.
Paulo’s Circus arrives at Lydiard between Friday, 19 June and Sunday, 28 June offering circus delights for all ages.
Lydiard House Museum is holding a special Ken White Week between Saturday, 20 June and Sunday, 28 June. A special exhibition and series of activities will celebrate the work of talented Swindon-based artist Ken White (1943 to 2025).
July sees two events arrive at the country park including the Swindon Balloon Festival (Friday, 3 and Saturday, 4 July), which is returning for its second year and hoping for more welcoming weather this time, while Immersion Theatre will be performing Romeo & Juliet on Saturday, 25 July.
For those looking for a bit of history, Guided Tours of Lydiard House (with a cream tea included) are available on selected dates in June and July.
August sees a number of events taking place, heralding the main period of the summer holidays.
Kicking off the month is The Great British Food Festival on Saturday, 1 and Sunday, 2 August. It will be foodie heaven for those attending with a variety of local and artisan producers, a big serving of tasty hot food vendors, add a dash of bars, a sprinkling of children’s activities and a dollop of top chef demos.
Open Air Theatre returns on Sunday, 2 August with a wild performance of The Jungle Book in the Walled Garden.
A Summer Paint & Sip, for those looking to get creative while having some bubbly, takes place on Wednesday, 5 August where a talented teacher will guide you through painting your masterpiece step by step.
Mayhem of Mad4Animals returns for the second time this year on Saturday, 8 August promising yet another day filled with animals (including snakes and spiders), entertainment and learning.
During August, Lydiard House Museum will be open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, starting from Wednesday, 5 August. Regular art and nature activities will be on offer for families, including a new ‘mystery at the museum’ puzzle to solve.
Rounding off the summer is the Lydiard Garden Party on Saturday, 22 August. Enjoy an afternoon of live music, great food and drinks, all set within the stunning surroundings of the historic Walled Garden with performances from Phoebe Appleby (Music by Phoebe) and Jason Boorman, followed by a live DJ.
Councillor Matthew Vallender, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Planning and Regeneration, said: “Lydiard Park is the jewel of Swindon’s crown and it’s fantastic to see so many events coming up over the summer months.
“Not only do we have events on the various weekends during the holidays, but the park itself is a joy to explore any day of the week whether you’re outdoorsy or not.
“So if you’re looking at the summer holidays and already thinking ‘how do I keep the kids entertained’, or if you’re wondering how you can keep yourself entertained, look no further than Lydiard Park.”
Councillor Jake Chandler, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council and the Cabinet Member responsible for Country Parks, said: “We have a number of amazing country parks across Swindon and Lydiard is truly one of the greats.
“I’m very happy that we’re able to take full advantage of the space the park provides to host some exciting events over the summer and I look forward to seeing smiles on the faces of everyone who chooses to visit this gem over the school holiday.”
Tickets have to be booked for most of these events (except Armed Forces Day) and this can be done via the Lydiard Park website.