Did you know that Milton Keynes is officially a contender for the 2029 UK city of culture? With jewels like Westbury Arts Centre in its crown, it’s not hard to see why this corner of North Bucks is finally getting its flowers on the cultural front. In fact, artists, jewellery designers, writers and more have been gathering at Westbury Arts Centre’s 17th century manor house for over three decades. 

There’s now a whopping 19 studios on site, where brilliant artists in residence create award-winning, thought-provoking work, from sculptures to fine art to weaving. The diverse range of artists not only makes for exciting exhibitions, but top notch pro-led workshops too, for the public, kids, and school groups alike. There are weekly art clubs and more specialised sessions including portrait painting, advancing in watercolour, print-making and even beekeeping. And for your young protégés, look no further than pencil drawing for children, or take them down to meet 14 of the resident artists during Bucks Art Week (6 – 14 June 2026). You might all discover your hidden talents.

All exhibitions at Westbury are open to everyone and free to attend, and don’t miss a wander around the beautiful gardens while you’re here too. Just seven minutes’ drive from Milton Keynes train station and ten minutes from Bletchley, it’s a cultural and community haven within seriously easy reach. Whether you want to hone a new skill (we’ll see you at ‘slow stitch’), discover stellar local artists or make new creative connections, it’s all here waiting.