
Discover more at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
Find out when Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Introducing: 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 local community, it's more than just a kite festival; it's a celebration of unity and access in our local green spaces.
Join us for a free, two-day festival to experience the magic of kite strings weaving connections between us all.
The Dunstable Downs Kite Festival was for many years the highlight of our summer at Dunstable Downs, a remarkable event that saw the skies come alive with the colourful and dynamic art of professional kite flying. However, operational challenges were a constant part of this journey, and the last Kite Festival was held in 2018.
But that wasn’t the end of our story. In 2024, we revived the festival as Kites Connect Festival with a fresh perspective and a deepened commitment to serving our local community.
Following the incredible success, Kites Connect Festival is set to return to the National Trust’s Dunstable Downs this summer for another celebration of community, creativity, and the wonder of kite flying.
Bringing the Dunstable Downs Kite Festival back to life was a vital step in our community strategy to connect with our diverse audiences and break down barriers to access. Our re-focused festival aims to create an environment where our visitors from all walks of life can come together to enjoy kite flying, the fresh air, and breathtaking views. Kites Connect Festival therefore has a more authentic and audience-centric feel, closer to the National Trust values that we have worked hard to instil in our programming over the years.
For any further information or questions, please contact dunstabledowns@nationaltrust.org.uk
Our Visitor Centre will be open and running as usual:
We will have a selection of local shops, catering, and activities joining us for the weekend. Full details to be announced soon.
Find out when Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.