Summer of Play: The Dunstable Downs Sports Village
Visit our very own Sports Village and inspire a spirit of play that can be continued throughout the season and beyond.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Summer of Play returns from Monday 22 July-1 September!
This year, see our Estate transform into a Sports Village with free, outdoor activities like football, cricket, hockey, tennis, athletics, volleyball, soft archery (Wednesdays only), and frisbee golf (Fridays only) for you to get stuck into.
Activities are self-led, just pick up the equipment from the Sports Village Welcome Area.
Alternatively join one of our coach-led activities delivered by local sports groups*
Before you compete, stop by our Visitor Centre to create your very own team flag!
Car parking charges apply, free for National Trust members.
Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
*Pepperstock Archers soft archery sessions: 27 July, 12.00pm-4.00pm 03 August, 12.00pm-4.00pm 31 August, 12.00pm-4.00pm
*Let’s Get Going nature-based games: 05 August, 11.00am-1.00pm 12 August, 11.00am-1.00pm 19 August, 11.00am-1.00pm 26 August, 11.00am-1.00pm
*Mini athletics: 30 July, 10.30-11.30 for under 6s, 11.30-12.30 for 7-12s 1 August, 10.30-11.30 for under 6s, 11.30-12.30 for 7-12s
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Well behaved dogs on leads welcome.
- Meeting point
Head to our Visitor Centre to pick up your map and team flag craft!
- What to bring and wear
This event is outdoors. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
- Accessibility
The field is flat and accessible.
Upcoming events
Traditional Afternoon Tea at the View Café
Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea overlooking the Downs.
Big Camp
Join us from 12.00pm on 3 August to 2.00pm on 4 August to camp out overnight beneath Dunstable Downs' famous skies!
Summer special: after hours
For a new way to experience Dunstable Downs, join us for two special evening openings during the summer holidays!
Kites Connect Festival: a celebration of culture and kites
Discover Kites Connect Festival, a revival of our popular Kite Fest, last held in 2018. With a fresh perspective and a deepened commitment to serving our community, we celebrate unity and access in our local green spaces.