Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this summer? Then look no further than The Brunel Swindon, which is staging six weeks of family fun – all completely free.
The shopping centre is teaming up with local partners including the Wyvern Theatre and Festival of Tomorrow to create ‘Wonderful Wednesdays’, helping families keep youngsters busy during the school holidays.
Every Wednesday, until August 26, a different activity is taking place downstairs near Boots, from 10am to 4pm. There is no need to book – families can just turn up and join in.
And the fun doesn’t stop when Wednesday ends. Running throughout the entire summer holiday, families can take part in a free treasure trail across the centre. Explorers can collect their trail maps from the Card Factory within the Brunel, hunt down the hidden letters across the mall, and claim a special little treat once the puzzle is solved.
“We know the school summer holidays can be long and often expensive for parents, so we wanted to offer something practical, fun and totally free,” said a spokesperson for The Brunel Swindon.
“By teaming up with some fantastic local organisations we’ve created a varied mix of activities from science experiments and storytelling to arts and crafts.”
Wonderful Wednesdays kicked off on July 29 with an arts and crafts pop-up run by the Signal Festival Swindon. On August 5 is the National Literacy Trust pop-up book swap, celebrating the National Year of Reading. Families will have the chance to browse and take home free pre-loved books. The Brunel is currently seeking book donations for all ages ahead of the event, which can be dropped off at Something Different or the Swindon Story Shed.
Festival of Tomorrow is running the activities on August 12 and 13, aimed at science enthusiasts, and promising a hands-on day packed with exciting science experiments alongside themed arts and crafts.
On August 19, Swindon Story Shed are taking over with activities inspired by the much-loved story ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, including themed crafts and story time.
The final Wonderful Wednesday, on August 26, will see the Wyvern Theatre return with Jack and the Beanstalk-themed fun, including the chance for children to plant their very own beanstalk to take home and possibly meet the pantomime cow.
Running alongside, every Wednesday there will be free face painting, with donations encouraged for Swindon & Wiltshire Pride.
With a full line-up of engaging, hands-on activities and a treasure trail running throughout the summer holiday, The Brunel Swindon is offering families a practical day out without the price tag, as well as a great range of shops to browse in.
