The Beach is back at centre:mk

Middleton Hall transformed into the UK’s largest free indoor beach at a shopping destination

Forget the motorway queues, the overloaded car and the traditional British seaside gamble with the weather. This summer, the beach is coming to centre:mk.

The Beach returns to centre from 17 July to 31 August 2026, bringing a Great British Seaside theme to Middleton Hall, outside John Lewis & Partners.

And this is not a token sandpit with two deckchairs and a plastic bucket. Middleton Hall has been transformed using a whopping 102 tonnes of sand, creating the UK’s largest free beach inside a shopping destination.

The free-to-enter attraction has become a firm favourite with visitors, many of whom have been eagerly asking when it would return. Now it is back with all the familiar seaside fun, plus a few new additions to keep families entertained throughout the summer holidays.

Visitors can expect the classics of a Great British day at the seaside, including free Punch and Judy shows, deckchairs, family seating areas and plenty of space for children to dig, build and generally cover themselves in sand.

For those looking for something a little more energetic, there will also be bungee trampolines, train rides, a helter-skelter and even an indoor rollercoaster. Pop-up stalls from retailers at centre will add to the fun throughout the summer.

Kevin Duffy, Director at centre:mk, said: “We are delighted to bring The Beach back to centre:mk for the summer holidays. It is incredibly popular with families and offers a fun day out for parents looking for somewhere to take their children.

“It is completely free to enter, with free activities available alongside the rides and attractions. Best of all, because it is the biggest indoor beach at a shopping destination in the UK, families can enjoy a day at the seaside without having to worry about the Great British weather.”

Buckets and spades at the ready. Raincoats strictly optional.

Additional Information

Daily opening times

Monday to Friday: 9.30am–6pm
Saturday: 9am–7pm
Sunday: 10.30am–6pm

Attraction prices

Rollercoaster: £5
Helter-skelter: £3
Train: £4
Toy ride: £4
Bungee: £6
Hook-a-duck: £5

Free Punch and Judy shows

Shows will take place every Tuesday throughout August at: 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm

Entry to The Beach is free.