Great Linford Waterside Festival returns this week

The annual soiree held in the grounds of the terrific Manor House is a fine family affair, and there’s no need to wait until the weekend to get stuck in; on Friday night, three small stages will play host to live music.

Artists including the Open University Orchestra and the Linda Watkins Band will play the music.

You simply bring your picnic and a blanket, or if you can’t be bothered to dig out the hamper and rustle up a tasty salad, make use of the barbecue and bar being laid on in the grounds from 6.30pm.

On Saturday, live music will roll from midday with a varied all grand line-up boasting singer-songwriter Steve Winch and drumming with Inta Africa, while Sunday’s sounds will include soul-bringer Nikki Prince and country-troupe Bullfrogs.

Over on Stage 2- being hosted by the Monkey Kettle collective - an array of indie tune-smiths will be let loose.

The Artworks MK courtyard will be full of heritage craft activity, with woodworkers and blacksmiths at work, and The Almshouses Artists will be welcoming visitors into their creative havens.

A bike ride will leave from the front of the Manor at 10am on Saturday and you’d have to be barking to miss Sunday’s Dog Show, from midday.

Add in archery, dancing displays, craft and charity stalls, sideshows, fairground rides and lots of music in the church and you’ve got a ready-made package to get stuck into this weekend.

Here’s hoping for not rain, but shine.

For full listings, visit www.watersidefestival.co.uk