The Parks Trust has announced upcoming events offer endless entertainment for all ages this half-term. From learning for little ones to family fun, you’re guaranteed to enjoy exploring the sensational parks and woodland of Milton Keynes.
Saturday 27 May 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm: Community Volunteering: Himalayan Balsam Removal at North Loughton Valley Park
Suitable for adults only, able to aid our hand-removal of an invasive species. By reducing the spread, we can encourage native species to re-populate the wet habitats of riverbanks and ditches.
Sunday 28 May, 2pm: Great Linford Manor Park Guided Walk
All ages are invited to enjoy a stroll around the stunning landscape of Great Linford Manor Park. Get introduced to some of the park’s new and restored features – from fun, playable sculptures and ornate new seating to the much-loved veteran lime tree and delightful ponds. You will also learn more about the park’s history with local experts.
Open Mornings and Wildlife Encounters at Howe Park Wood
Based around the theme of water and wetlands, Open Mornings will take place on Tuesday 30, Wednesday 31 May and Thursday 1 June. There will be an opportunity to view artefacts such as nests, skulls and feathers found across our different parks, nature-themed challenges, and self-guided trails. Although everything is completely free, you can add extra fun to your visit by booking a pond dipping session for just £5 for a family of five or bug hunting for £1.50 per set.
Tuesday 30 May, 10am: Community Litter Pick: Kents Hill Park
Everyone is invited to join a united litter pick of the woodland. Setting out to improve the environment for local wildlife and remove any hazards, a Parks Trust Ranger will host this event.
Thursday 1 June, 5-8pm: Linford Eats at Great Linford Manor Park
Suitable for family and friends of all ages (including well-behaved dogs on leads). Enjoy delicious dishes from local vendors, live music, and explore the newly restored parkland.
Thursday 1 June, 11am: Tree Tots at Howe Park Wood
Tree Tots offers a range of seasonal activities for under-5s. You’ll get to join in all kinds of fun things that connect you and your little one with nature. From ‘cooking’ in mud kitchens, balancing on ropes and swinging in hammocks to playing with water, exploring the woods and collecting natural treasure. £1 per person joining the session.
Thursday 1 June, 10am: Women's Walking Network at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve, Ouse Valley
The next guided walk for women and wellbeing, and just £1, will take in the sights and sounds through a location which has a reputation of being one of the best sites in Bucks for bird watching and natural history.
Friday 2 June, 10am – 3pm: Discover Nature Day at Howe Park Wood
An action-packed day for 8–10-year-olds interested in the natural world and keen to get hands-on with wildlife. Through a range of activities on creature identification, biology, bushcraft and more, they’ll meet new friends, learn new skills and get excited by the natural world. All for just £22.50.
Sunday 4 June, 10am: Parks and Run at Caldecotte Lake
Suitable for all ages and abilities, with 3, 6 and 11km routes. This monthly programme gathers fellow runners to explore a different area of Milton Keynes whilst keeping fit.
More details and how to book each of these events is available herewhere you can also find maps, routes and lots of inspiration to help you get the most out of MK’s beautiful parkland.