Music, comedy, wellness and family entertainment come together at Claydon Estate as Found Festival prepares for its second year, with local residents eligible for heavily discounted tickets.
After a hugely successful debut last summer, Found Festival returns to the beautiful Claydon Estate over the August Bank Holiday weekend with another joy-filled celebration of music, creativity, comedy, wellness and community.
Taking place from 28th to 30th August 2026, the boutique Bucks festival has quickly earned a reputation for doing things differently. Created by the family behind the legendary Towersey Festival, Found swaps blockbuster headliners for what organisers affectionately call “head-turners not headliners”, championing discovery, atmosphere and connection over crowds.
Small by design and limited to just 2,000 people, the festival offers an intimate and welcoming experience set across the rolling parkland of the Claydon Estate. Yet despite its size, the programme rivals events many times bigger. This year’s musical line-up includes Oxford folk favourites Stornoway, fresh from a sold-out performance at the Royal Albert Hall, alongside acclaimed Americana outfit The Felice Brothers and Scotland’s electrifying Celtic stars Elephant Sessions. Comedy fans can look forward to performances from Shappi Khorsandi and Kiri Pritchard-McClean, plus live podcasts, late-night entertainment and more.
Beyond the stages, festival-goers can immerse themselves in yoga, breathwork, meditation, sound baths, dance workshops, lantern making, silent discos, lakeside fire shows and even clowning for grown-ups. Families are especially welcome, with storytelling, circus skills, street theatre and the magical Midnight Playground helping create a relaxed and imaginative atmosphere. New for 2026, all ticket holders will receive free entry to Claydon House, where leading contemporary gallery White Cube will present a special exhibition inspired by the estate’s rich history.
Found’s local roots remain central to its ethos. Rebellion Brewery will supply award-winning ales, Haddenham wellbeing specialists Firelight will lead the wellness programme and Bucks New University students will gain valuable hands-on festival experience.
People living in MK18, HP18, HP17 and OX9 postcodes can access heavily discounted tickets, with weekend passes priced at just £100 for adults and £20 for under-18s using the code FOUNDLOCAL.
Festival co-director Joe Heap says: “We’re creating something really special here – a festival built with love, creativity and community at its heart. We can’t wait to welcome people back.”
More young people are joining Scouts across Bucks than at any time in recent years, but with thousands still on waiting lists, volunteers are being urged to step forward and help meet growing demand.
Adventure is thriving across Bucks as more young people than ever are signing up to join The Scouts.
The county’s Scout groups have seen remarkable growth over the past two years, with numbers of Squirrels – the youngest members, aged four to six years – rising by more than 110%. Meanwhile, Explorer Scouts, for teenagers aged 14 to 17, have increased by more than 15%, reaching their highest numbers in more than 25 years.
From campfires and kayaking, science experiments and survival skills, the movement’s appeal continues to grow among young people eager for friendship, confidence and adventure away from screens.
Buckinghamshire Scouts Lead Volunteer James Williamson says the increase reflects the dedication of volunteers across the county. “It’s great to see the growth in Squirrels with more Dreys opening across Bucks,” he says. “It’s also brilliant to see the number of Explorers increasing. Our amazing volunteers provide incredibly varied activities for young people.”
Young members can work towards badges covering everything from air activities and emergency aid to global issues, martial arts and water sports, alongside popular outdoor adventures including camping and pioneering.
There are Scout groups throughout Bucks, including in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Bourne End, Flackwell Heath, Great Missenden, Marlow, Princes Risborough, Stokenchurch and Wooburn. But while demand is booming, so too are waiting lists.
Nearly 3,400 children and teenagers across the county are waiting to join. James says more adult volunteers are urgently needed to help open additional groups and create opportunities for more young people.
“We’d be able to find a role for anyone who wants to help,” he adds. “Whether you’d like to work directly with young people or help behind the scenes with fundraising, IT, finance or admin, there’s something for everyone.”
Volunteer Nigel adds that scouting offers benefits for adults as well as children. “Volunteering with Scouts is a fantastic opportunity to help young people develop skills for life while having fun,” he says. “It’s also a chance to learn new skills yourself, make friends and try new activities. Children and young people want adventure and we provide the opportunity to have those adventures.”
Whether helping at weekly meetings, organising camps or supporting behind the scenes, volunteers can give as much or as little time as they are able.
To find out more about volunteering, please visit bucks-scouts.org.uk.
We’ve teamed up with the independent Missing Bean team to offer one lucky winner a six-month ethical coffee subscription, delivered.
What began as a passion for great coffee has grown into one of Oxfordshire’s most loved independent coffee brands. Founded by Ori Halup and Vicky Troth in 2009, Missing Bean was built on a simple idea: to bring exceptional, ethically sourced coffee to everyone – without the pretension.
Today, with cafés across Oxfordshire and a busy roastery producing speciality coffee five days a week, Missing Bean continues to champion quality, community and sustainability. Working directly with coffee producers, the team ensures farmers receive fair prices while carefully roasting each bean to highlight its unique flavour and character.
Now, one lucky winner can enjoy the Missing Bean experience at home with a 12-month subscription of speciality coffee. Each month, they’ll receive a 250g bag of the team’s pick of exceptional coffee beans, showcasing different origins, flavour profiles and processing methods.
From your first morning brew to a quiet afternoon pause, it’s a chance to discover the craft, care and passion behind every cup.
Visit themissingbean.co.uk to explore their range of coffee, cafés, bakery treats and more.
How to enter
To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Friday, 30th July 2026.
Our lucky winner can enjoy a Bloom garden planner and Tomato Vine recipe journal worth £19.99 each from this design-led independent brand.
Beautiful stationery has the power to transform everyday moments, and that’s exactly the philosophy behind Yop & Tom.
The brand creates thoughtfully designed planners, notebooks and journals that combine style with purpose – helping people organise their thoughts, nurture creativity and enjoy the simple pleasure of putting pen to paper.
With a love of beautiful design, attention to detail and a commitment to making products with care for the planet, every piece is designed to be both practical and a joy to use.
We’ve teamed up with Yop & Tom to offer one lucky reader a gorgeous stationery bundle. The prize includes the Garden Planner – Bloom, a charming A5 hardback journal for recording planting plans, seasonal notes and gardening inspiration, plus the Recipe Journal – Tomato Vine, a beautifully illustrated kitchen companion for preserving treasured family recipes and creating new favourites.
Both are printed on premium 100g pages offering ample space for capturing your thoughts, helping organise your world and passing tips on to your family.
Whether you’re a green-fingered gardener, an enthusiastic cook or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful design, this is a prize that will inspire creativity all year round.
How to enter
To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Friday, 30th July 2026.
One lucky reader will enjoy a two-night stay for up to four people at the award-winning Oxfordshire retreat, complete with breakfast and stunning countryside views.
If you’re craving a break from busy schedules, endless notifications and the demands of everyday life, this competition could be just what you need.
We’ve teamed up with The Oxford Yurt to offer one lucky winner a two-night stay for up to four people, including breakfast, at this award-winning Oxfordshire glamping retreat.
Tucked away in the stunning Vale of the White Horse, The Oxford Yurt is an eco-friendly glamping haven set within beautiful meadowland, with panoramic views across the countryside towards the ancient White Horse of Uffington.
Designed as a place to reconnect with nature, loved ones and yourself, it’s the ideal destination for anyone seeking a slower pace and a chance to truly switch off.
From the moment you arrive, the stresses of modern life begin to melt away. Meandering grassy pathways wind through wildflowers and greenery, leading to a collection of beautifully crafted yurts and communal spaces.
Wildlife thrives here, with birdsong providing the soundtrack to your stay and rabbits often spotted among the meadows. Over the past decade, the site has been carefully nurtured into a flourishing habitat rich in flora and fauna, creating a magical setting for guests to enjoy.
The yurts themselves are cosy, stylish and surprisingly spacious, offering all the comfort of a home-from-home while allowing you to immerse yourself in the outdoors.
Thoughtful touches throughout the site reflect the care and attention that have made The Oxford Yurt such a popular destination for celebrations, retreats and countryside escapes.
Owner Sarah created The Oxford Yurt following travels around India, Grenada and Portugal, inspired by the idea of building a welcoming, community-focused space where people can gather, relax, learn new skills and enjoy meaningful experiences together. That ethos is woven throughout every aspect of the site.
As well as providing a beautiful place to stay, The Oxford Yurt hosts a range of activities and experiences throughout the year, from pottery workshops and painting sessions to wellness retreats, music events and silent discos. Whether you’re looking for adventure, creativity or simply a peaceful place to unwind, there’s something for everyone.
From setting a realistic budget to deciding between petrol, hybrid and electric power, here are the key factors to consider before buying your next car.
Time to change your car? Whether you’re opting for new or used it can be a minefield and with the choices of petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid where do you start?
It may sound obvious but know your budget – in addition to monthly payments, check out insurance and road tax costs, running costs, and any MOT that may be needed.
If you need a car that’s suitable for the school run and a dog don’t let your head be turned by a racy looking convertible. Is there enough boot capacity for all your holiday luggage? Where will you be doing the majority of your driving – towns, cities or in the country? Is manual or automatic better for your needs and that’s before you start looking at fuel vs electric options.
Electric cars are more expensive to buy however offer lower running costs, road tax and reduced emissions while petrol vehicles provide longer range and have an established refuelling infrastructure If you have a good idea what you’re after then research the make and model, seek out any common problems or gripes of current owners. How reliable is it?
Got your eye on a shiny new one sitting on the forecourt at your local dealership? Make sure you ask about warranty length, servicing packages, delivery time, finance and pick the dealer’s brain – they’ll have untold amounts of knowledge that will help you make the right choice.
Opting for a used car means you can often find a great deal, check the service history, mileage, number of previous owners, MOT history, tyres, brakes and bodywork – buying from a recognised used car dealer will give you peace of mind with all these and the chance to ask any questions and quell any doubts.
Always take whichever you choose for a test drive – it’s the only way to really get a feel for the car to see if it’s the one for you. Aside from the actual driving, does it feel comfortable, does it feel like your car?
Once you’ve decided on the right one for you, read the paperwork carefully, don’t feel pushed into anything. If needs be go back and have another look on a separate occasion before setting out on the open road.
Regular servicing and simple monthly checks can help keep your vehicle safe, reliable and ready for summer journeys, while reducing the risk of costly breakdowns.
Whatever age your car there are times when it will need some TLC and regular maintenance is crucial for safety and performance.
Checks should be carried out monthly for tyre pressure, lights, oil and washer fluid levels. Every six months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first) you should get an interim service with basic checks being carried out, oil/filter changes. Every 12 months (or 12,000 miles) a full service is needed to check the engine oil, filter, air filter and brakes.
Key components:
– Tyres: Check for tread depth and pressure to maintain safety. – Brakes: Look for squeaking or reduced stopping power. – Fluids: Regularly check and top up engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. – Battery: Inspect cables and terminals, especially before winter.
An interim service will keep your car safe and roadworthy between major services, for high mileage drivers this is particularly important while the full service will check all systems – steering, suspension, exhaust, lights and more.
With summer approaching and the likelihood of longer drives, the focus turns to preventing overheating and ensuring safety in higher temperatures.
Key tasks include checking coolant levels, inspecting tyres (pressure and tread), testing air conditioning, ensuring wiper blades are functional, and topping up engine oil to avoid damage.
Key summer maintenance:
– Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel, as start-stop traffic in summer increases consumption. – Oil: Check oil levels; high heat makes oil thinner, reducing efficiency and increasing risk of engine damage. – Rubber: Inspect tyres (including the spare) for pressure and tread (minimum 1.6mm in UK) to prevent blowouts. Also check wiper blades for perishing. – Coolant: Ensure coolant is at the right level to prevent overheating. Use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. – Electrics: Check your battery, as heat can accelerate degradation. Clean terminals if needed. – Screen wash: Top up your windscreen washer fluid, as dry conditions and insects increase usage.
Additional summer safe driving tips:
– Air conditioning: Check if it needs a recharge. – Cooling system: Inspect for leaks and ensure the radiator fan works. Never open a hot radiator cap. – Bodywork: Wash away bird droppings and tree sap immediately to avoid damaging the paint, which can set in the heat. – Exterior lights: Ensure they are working for sudden summer storms.
Sir David Attenborough is encouraging people across the UK to spend 15 minutes counting butterflies and moths this summer, helping scientists track the health of the natural world while enjoying the wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature.
“Butterflies are vitally important. Their presence acts as a barometer of the health of our environment. Their ongoing decline tells us that all is not well in the British countryside.”
These are the words of Sir David Attenborough, president of Butterfly Conservation, who is urging wildlife lovers to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count, running from 17th July to 9th August.
The annual survey is the world’s largest citizen science project focused on butterflies and day-flying moths. By spending just 15 minutes counting insects in a garden, park, school field, balcony or countryside spot, participants can help scientists build a clearer picture of how wildlife is responding to climate change, habitat loss and changing weather patterns.
“It’s not too late to help,” says Sir David. “You can help ensure that butterflies still bring that sense of magic to our summertime by taking part in the Big Butterfly Count. The count will tell us if butterflies are recovering and let us know how they are faring in our back gardens, parks, fields, towns and cities. But more than that, the count brings us face to face with Britain’s wildlife stars living right under our noses. If you care about butterflies, make sure you take part.”
For many of us, butterflies are woven into childhood memories: peering into buddleia bushes, spotting cabbage whites in the vegetable patch or watching red admirals basking in the sunshine. Yet these delicate insects are far more than symbols of summer. They are among nature’s most important warning signs, with their fortunes closely linked to the health of the wider environment.
There’s good news for people taking part, too. Research has shown that spending time observing butterflies can improve mental wellbeing, helping to reduce anxiety and encouraging people to slow down and reconnect with nature.
“Butterflies really bring happiness and serenity when you observe them,” says artist Mel Seymour of melaniemosaics.co.uk, who has created butterfly mosaics for public spaces and care homes across the UK and beyond. “Please let some butterfly-friendly native wildflowers grow in your garden.”
Last year, more than 125,000 people took part in the Big Butterfly Count, recording a record 1.7 million butterflies and moths. The Red Admiral was the most commonly spotted species nationwide.
Across the south east, thousands of people got involved. In Berkshire, 2,190 participants recorded 26,041 butterflies and moths; Buckinghamshire saw 2,027 people record 24,654 sightings; Oxfordshire had 1,391 participants spotting 18,040 insects; Wiltshire recorded 33,913 sightings from 2,351 participants; while Surrey and Hampshire together contributed more than 128,000 sightings. In every county, the Large White was among the most frequently spotted butterflies.
Conservationists say every count matters, particularly after a year of unusual weather patterns. The combination of warm spring sunshine followed by wetter conditions may already be affecting butterfly numbers and behaviour, making this summer’s survey especially valuable.
One of the strengths of the Big Butterfly Count is its simplicity. No specialist knowledge is required and even the smallest outdoor space can become a wildlife haven. A few flower-filled pots on a balcony, a picnic in the park or a stroll along a country lane could reveal species worth recording.
Children often enjoy taking part most of all, turning the activity into a treasure hunt for peacocks, painted ladies, brimstones and other colourful visitors. Free identification charts and an easy-to-use smartphone app make it easy for beginners to get involved.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, says: “This is a chance to turn curiosity into conservation and make a real contribution to protecting butterflies in the UK for generations to come.
“Butterflies are beautiful, yes – but they’re also incredibly important bioindicators. As they continue to disappear, as they have over recent decades, it indicates something is going seriously wrong in our natural world. We need to heed that warning and take action before it’s too late.
“If we lose butterflies, we lose more than beauty – we lose balance in our ecosystems, and that will have serious repercussions for wildlife in the UK. If you do one thing for nature this year, get out for the count this summer.”
From dinosaurs and steam trains to outdoor theatre, wildlife encounters and food festivals, here are some of the best family-friendly events, attractions and days out to enjoy this summer.
Summer is here and, with the school holidays stretching ahead, there’s no shortage of family-friendly fun to enjoy across the region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, fascinating history, live entertainment, hands-on activities or simply a great day out in the sunshine, there’s something for every age and interest.
National Trust adventures and outdoor play
National Trust properties are once again pulling out all the stops with their popular Summer of Play programmes. At Greys Court, children can take to the stage, design their own gardens, create giant artworks and enjoy den building and mud kitchens. Basildon Park unveils its new Walled Garden play hub, packed with creative zones, fashion-themed activities and classic games with a twist.
Across Surrey and Hampshire, families can enjoy outdoor theatre, cinema screenings and themed trails at properties including Polesden Lacey, Hatchlands Park, Winkworth Arboretum, The Vyne, Mottisfont, Hinton Ampner and Uppark House, where visitors can step into the whimsical world of The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
Animals, dinosaurs and wildlife
Animal lovers are spoiled for choice this summer. Wellington Country Park hosts a prehistoric Dino Takeover from 1st-3rd August, with life-sized dinosaurs including a T. rex and Triceratops. The park’s new Big Weekender from 14th-16th August adds magic shows, storytelling, silent discos and creative workshops, while Inflatables in the Park promises giant bouncy fun over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Elsewhere, families can meet thousands of animals at Whipsnade Zoo, enjoy hands-on experiences at Kew Little Pigs, visit Beale Wildlife Park and Cotswold Wildlife Park, or spend time with rescue animals at Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary. Nature lovers can also enjoy the beautiful grounds and family trails at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens.
History, heritage and hands-on discovery
There are plenty of opportunities to step back in time this summer. Explore local treasures at Abingdon County Hall Museum, discover the world of William Morris at Kelmscott Manor, or climb aboard vintage locomotives at Didcot Railway Centre, where unlimited train rides run throughout the holidays.
Railway enthusiasts can also enjoy heritage journeys through the Chilterns on the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, while Crofton Beam Engines celebrates its famous Steam Days in July. At Wilton Windmill, the only working windmill in Wessex, visitors can enjoy spectacular countryside views.
For living history enthusiasts, West Horsley Place recreates King Henry VIII’s visit with jousting, falconry and Tudor festivities, while Chiltern Open Air Museum hosts Viking raids, heritage crafts and family-friendly historical events. The annual Festival of Archaeology also returns to Greys Court.
Festivals, food and family entertainment
Foodies can start the summer at the Wantage International Food & Drink Festival, where international flavours, live music and free children’s activities create a lively family atmosphere.
Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the hugely popular Henley Country Craft Show returns to Stonor Park, featuring more than 200 artisan stalls, demonstrations, food and family entertainment.
Festival fans can enjoy EdFest in Didcot, with live music, food and free family activities, while Hampshire’s DellFest offers a relaxed countryside vibe, excellent food and uplifting live music. Visitors can also enjoy the Great British Food Festival at West Horsley Place and the South Downs Show at Queen Elizabeth Country Park.
Theatre, music and outdoor cinema
Summer is the perfect season for outdoor entertainment. Dinton Pastures hosts open-air cinema screenings including Mamma Mia!, Dirty Dancing, Magic Mike and a Wicked sing-along.
At Waddesdon Manor, outdoor theatre returns with productions including The Tempest, The Railway Children and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Music lovers can head to Farnham Castle for a special outdoor Stevie Wonder tribute concert featuring acclaimed performers Derek Nash and Noel McCalla.
Meanwhile, Wycombe Swan presents a packed summer programme, including the touring production of High Society starring Helen George and Felicity Kendal.
Thrills, science and big days out
For adrenaline-fuelled family fun, Brooklands Museum celebrates 100 years since Britain’s first Grand Prix with its Summer of Speed, featuring interactive exhibitions, family activities and science shows.
At Guards Polo Club in Windsor, the Coronation Cup offers the chance to watch world-class polo up close, while LEGOLAND Windsor welcomes back its popular LEGO Festival, packed with brick-building challenges, live shows and favourite characters.
Science takes centre stage at Winchester Science Centre, where visitors can enjoy explosive demonstrations, meet South Downs minibeasts and journey through space in one of the UK’s largest planetariums.
For classic family days out, there’s always Longleat, with its famous safari park and attractions, or Bowood House and Gardens, where adventure playgrounds, pirate ships and beautiful grounds await.
Slow down and savour summer
If a gentler pace is more your style, enjoy a relaxing canal boat trip aboard the Rose of Hungerford, wander the beautiful gardens at Buscot Park, explore the ancient landscape of Avebury Stone Circle, or spend an afternoon beneath the big top with Giffords Circus and its new show, Waterfield.
Wherever you choose to go, this summer offers countless opportunities to explore, discover and make memories with family and friends. The only challenge may be fitting it all in.
With headliners Reef, Ocean Colour Scene and Ward Thomas, plus comedy stars, wellness sessions and more than 50 live acts, Haslemere Fringe Festival is set for another unforgettable weekend.
It’s nearly here! The 2026 Haslemere Fringe Festival is now just a few days away with music, comedy, dance, performance art, wellness and local food and artisans.
Alongside this year’s fabulous headliners Reef, Ocean Colour Scene and Ward Thomas, on the three nights respectively, there’s an exciting line up including the newly-added Caity Baser taking to the Main Stage on Saturday. Singer / songwriter Caity was nominated for the BRIT’s Rising Star Award, supported Olivia Rodrigo and has performed twice at the godfather of festivals Glastonbury.
They are just a handful of the more than 50 live acts showcasing a stunning array of talent across genres, from soulful acoustic sets to energetic rock and vibrant indie – truly living up to the ‘something for everyone’ tag.
Young festival goers aren’t forgotten with exciting games and rides at the funfair, engaging art activities, live performers, interactive shows, and delightful activities.
Friday night at the Fringe is comedy night hosted by popular local comedian Andy Steadman. He’ll be introducing comedy legend Bobby Davro and TV and radio favourite Bob Mills alongside Mark Simmons and up and coming new stars.
A first for this year’s festival will be Sunday morning Wellness at the Fringe from 8.30am to midday. Start your day with a dynamic line-up of sessions including revitalizing yoga flow, a high energy Dance Fit class, fun family-friendly HIIT to fire up the endorphins, deeply relaxing sound bath experiences and more – all included in the Sunday or Weekend Fringe ticket!
The not-for-profit, family-friendly festival run entirely by a fantastic volunteer network from the local community and beyond takes place every two years and this year will be supporting six local charities – Charlie’s Promise, The Haslemere Hub, Bliss, SERV, Haslewey, and I’m All Ears.
Volunteers are vital to the vibrancy and smooth running of this popular weekend event and also to keep Fringe ticket prices affordable to all. Volunteering also offers a great opportunity to meet new friends and be involved in this brilliant community event – plus you will be rewarded with free entry to the day of the festival on which you volunteer!
Volunteers are still sought to help with a variety of roles. Each shift will be three hours long and will require availability before the event to provide health and safety briefings and full details of the role requirements. You must be over 16 to volunteer.
For more information about volunteering and to sign up, and to buy tickets, please visit the website haslemerefringe.co.uk.
