JAM-PACKED SUMMER EVENTS CALENDAR

Rushden Lakes is bringing the seaside to Northamptonshire this summer, with a packed calendar of family activities, outdoor experiences and seasonal events designed to help visitors make the most of the school holidays.

Families can enjoy a taste of the coast at the Rushden Lakes beach, where children can dip their toes in the sand, build sandcastles, dig, play and create their own summer memories.

It’s not just the beach visitors can enjoy, with classic seaside games also returning. Families can have a go at Hook a Duck (prize every time), Tin Can Alley and Darts, with the chance to test their skills and win prizes.

Summer treats will also be available throughout the holidays, with visitors able to enjoy chocolate strawberries, Greek wraps, churros, slush drinks, Eton Mess and sweets until Monday 31 August. The beach will be open (weather permitting) from 10:00am to 7:00pm Monday to Friday and Sundays, and 10:00am to 8:00pm on Saturdays.

The much-loved free Summer Trail also returns to Rushden Lakes this August. Until 31 August, children of all ages can collect a trail booklet from Customer Services and set off on a letter hunt around the destination. The aim is to collect all the letters and spell out a summer-themed phrase in exchange for a special treat. There is also the chance for three lucky participants to win a £50 Rushden Lakes gift card.

Rushden Rangers is back by popular demand, inviting families to join midweek nature adventures every Wednesday until 27 August for a small fee. Each week brings a brand-new theme, young explorers can discover the hidden creatures living beneath the surface of Rushden Lake, learn about the area’s resident beaver family, investigate terrific trees, wild weather, brilliant bugs and the wonders of wildlife gardening. Packed with nature-based activities, wildlife encounters, creative crafts and practical tips for helping nature at home, these sessions are the perfect way for children and families to connect with local wildlife, learn about conservation and enjoy the great outdoors throughout the summer holidays. There are four pre-bookable sessions every Wednesday at 10.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm.

Donna French, Rushden Lakes Centre Manager, said:

"Summer is one of our favourite times of year at Rushden Lakes, and we're looking forward to welcoming families to enjoy everything the destination has to offer."

Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful start to the morning with a 45-minute outdoor yoga class at Rushden Lakes, surrounded by fresh air, nature and the calming sound of the fountain.

Perfect for all abilities, these gentle yoga sessions help participants move, breathe and reconnect while supporting flexibility, strength, relaxation and overall wellbeing. The calming practice is designed to ease tension, improve mobility, encourage mindfulness and leave visitors feeling refreshed for the day ahead.

Sessions will take place on Wednesday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th August at 8:00am and 9:00am, opposite Clarks next to the fountain. Tickets cost £5 per person.

Summer is also heating up at Rushden Lakes with exciting competitions, including a website giveaway offering the chance to win a £1,000 Rushden Lakes Gift Card. Visitors are encouraged to keep an eye on Rushden Lakes’ social media channels for further competitions and prize announcements throughout the summer.

With alfresco dining, bright deckchairs, lake activities, summer shopping and peaceful strolls around the nature reserve, there are endless opportunities to make lasting memories at Rushden Lakes this summer.