10 things to do in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

Hello!

My name is Constance, I’m a professional photographer and I’ve been living in Milton Keynes, located in Buckinghamshire, England, since 2016, and I have come to fall in love with the variety of activities and attractions available in the city and around, which prompted me to write this blog post!

If you’re looking for ideas of things to do in Milton Keynes, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve rounded up my 10 favourite activities and experiences to do in the city of Milton Keynes and around - most of which are children and pet-friendly!

1) Bletchley Park - Visit the historic site where Alan Turing and other codebreakers worked during World War II!

Bletchley Park is a historic estate located in the town of Bletchley, near Milton Keynes, England. During World War II, it served as the central site for British codebreakers who were tasked with deciphering encrypted messages intercepted from German military and intelligence sources. The codebreaking efforts at Bletchley Park were instrumental in the Allied victory, particularly in the Battle of the Atlantic.

The codebreakers at Bletchley Park used a range of methods to decipher encrypted messages, including statistical analysis, deduction, and the use of specially-designed machines such as the Bombe and Colossus computers. The most famous codebreaking success at Bletchley Park was the decryption of the German Enigma machine, which was used to encrypt messages transmitted by the German military.

Bletchley Park was also the workplace of several notable individuals, including Alan Turing, who is widely regarded as one of the founders of computer science and artificial intelligence. Turing played a key role in cracking the Enigma code, and his work at Bletchley Park helped lay the groundwork for modern computing.

After the war, Bletchley Park fell into disrepair, but it has since been restored and transformed into a museum and heritage site. Today, visitors can explore the site's historic buildings and learn about the codebreaking efforts that took place there during World War II.

2) Willen Lake - A beautiful park with a lake, a beach, and various water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Willen Lake is a large lake and park located in Milton Keynes, a town in Buckinghamshire, England. The lake covers an area of approximately 180 acres and is surrounded by parkland, walking and cycling paths, and other recreational facilities.

The lake was created in the 1970s as part of the construction of Milton Keynes, which was designed as a new town to alleviate overpopulation in nearby cities. The lake was named after the local Willen village, which has been inhabited since the Middle Ages.

Today, Willen Lake is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, with a range of activities and attractions available. The lake is a popular spot for water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park also features a high ropes course, a mini-golf course, a children's play area, and several cafes and restaurants.

The lake and park are also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals. The lake is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its important wetland habitat and bird populations.

Overall, Willen Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of Milton Keynes.

Pro tip: make sure to try the High Ropes Course at Willen Lake, it’s such a fun elevated ropes course that will test your balance and bravery!

3) Milton Keynes Theatre district: Catch a musical or go out for food and drinks at the cultural and entertainment district!

The Milton Keynes Theatre district is a cultural and entertainment hub located at the heart of Milton Keynes. It comprises three main venues: the Milton Keynes Theatre, the Milton Keynes Gallery, and the MK11 Live Music Venue.

The Milton Keynes Theatre is the largest venue in the district and can seat up to 1,400 people. It hosts a wide range of theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, ballets, and operas, as well as concerts and comedy shows. The theatre has been open since 1999 and is known for its modern design and state-of-the-art facilities.

The Milton Keynes Gallery is an art museum that showcases contemporary art from both local and international artists. It hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, including talks, workshops, and screenings. The gallery is also home to the Project Space, which features work from emerging artists.

MK11 Live Music Venue is a popular spot for live music performances, with a capacity of up to 300 people. It features a stage, sound system, and lighting equipment, and hosts a variety of local and touring bands and musicians.

The Theatre District also features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular destination for a night out - Brewhouse & Kitchen, Midsummer Tap, All Bar One and Revolucion de Cuba are some of my favourite spots!

4) Bradwell Abbey: A historical site where you can explore the ruins of an old monastery and learn about the area's past.

Bradwell Abbey is a historical site located in Milton Keynes, England. It was originally founded as a Benedictine priory in the 12th century, and was later converted into an Augustinian abbey in the 13th century. The abbey was dissolved in 1536 during the English Reformation, and the site fell into ruin over the following centuries.

Today, the remains of the abbey can still be seen, including the church tower, the cloister arches, and parts of the walls. The site also includes a 14th-century farmhouse and a 17th-century barn. These buildings have been restored and are now used as a community centre and a museum.

Bradwell Abbey is considered an important historical site in Milton Keynes, and it has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The site is open to the public, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the abbey and its role in the local community. Additionally, the site hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including art exhibitions, historical re-enactments, and craft fairs.

I’ve had the chance to do many shoots at Bradwell - including my fully booked Christmas minis with a vintage campervan - and it’s always a pleasure walking on its grounds!

5) Book a photo session with a professional photographer who knows all the best locations in Milton Keynes!

A photo session provides an opportunity to capture memories that you can cherish for a lifetime. Whether it's a family portrait or a special occasion, such as a graduation or engagement, a birthday or anniversary, having professional photos can help you remember those moments forever!

So many of my clients will also tell me that the photo session they had with me has massively boosted their self-confidence which is always amazing to hear! I’ve booked myself a photo session to see what it would feel like to be in the shoes of a client booking me, and although I was feeling a tad nervous at first, the photos turned out great and it made me feel more confident! After all, a professional photographer knows how to capture your best features and can help you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

If you're a business professional or looking for a job, a professional headshot can help you make a great first impression. Having a high-quality photo on your LinkedIn profile or business website can help you stand out from the competition.

You get the drill: a photo session can provide you with many benefits, including capturing memories, boosting self-confidence, and creating beautiful images that you can proudly display in your home, office, on your phone wallpaper or Facebook profile picture. If you're considering booking a photo session, it's definitely worth the investment!

If you want those precious wedding, family memories or branding story captured in Milton Keynes, I’d love to help!

6) Gulliver's Land: A fun theme park with over 70 attractions and rides for children aged 2-13!

Gulliver's Land is Milton Keynes’ most popular theme park. The park is based on the famous novel "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift, and features a range of rides and attractions that are designed to appeal to families with young children.

The park is divided into several themed areas, each of which offers a different selection of rides and attractions. For example, the Adventure Land area features a roller coaster, a log flume, and a pirate ship ride, while the Western World area has a Wild West-themed playground and a mini train ride.

One of the most popular attractions in Gulliver's Land is the Dinosaur and Farm Park, which is home to a variety of prehistoric creatures and domestic animals. Visitors can take part in a range of interactive experiences, including petting and feeding the animals, as well as learning about their habitats and behaviors.

Overall, Gulliver's Land is a great place for families with young children to spend a day out. With its wide range of rides and attractions, as well as its focus on educational experiences, the park offers something for everyone.

7) Take a cooking class at Milton Keynes Cookery School: Learn a new skill or develop an existing one!

Milton Keynes Cookery School is a culinary school located in Milton Keynes, a town in Buckinghamshire, England. The school offers a wide range of cookery courses for people of all ages and skill levels.

The courses offered by Milton Keynes Cookery School cover a variety of cuisines, including British, Italian, Indian, Thai, and Chinese. They also offer courses on baking, pastry making, and bread making. The school is led by a team of experienced chefs who have a passion for teaching and sharing their knowledge with others.

In addition to the regular courses, Milton Keynes Cookery School also offers corporate events, team building activities, and private parties. The school is fully equipped with state-of-the-art cooking facilities and equipment, making it a great place for people to learn and develop their cooking skills.

The school is open to both individuals and groups, and courses can be booked online through their website. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced cook looking to learn new techniques, Milton Keynes Cookery School offers a range of courses to suit your needs.

8) Xscape: Indoor skiing, snowboarding, indoor skydiving, and other activities.

Xscape is an indoor leisure complex located at the heart of Milton Keynes. The complex features a range of entertainment and leisure activities, making it a popular destination for families, groups of friends, and corporate events.

One of the main attractions at Xscape is the indoor snow slope, which is one of the largest in the UK. The slope is 170 meters long and 30 meters wide, and features real snow throughout the year. Visitors can take skiing and snowboarding lessons, or simply enjoy the thrill of skiing down the slope.

In addition to the snow slope, Xscape also has an indoor skydiving center, where visitors can experience the sensation of skydiving without having to jump out of a plane. The center features a vertical wind tunnel that creates a strong upward airflow, allowing visitors to float in mid-air.

Other attractions at Xscape include a cinema, an indoor trampoline park, a bowling alley, and a range of restaurants and bars. There is also an indoor climbing wall, a virtual reality experience, and a soft play area for younger children.

Overall, Xscape is a popular destination for people looking for indoor leisure and entertainment activities in Milton Keynes. With its range of activities and facilities, there is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age or skill level.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to try the Laser Tag at Laser Planet: it’s such a fun activity to do with friends for occasions like birthday or just ot have some good old fun!

9) Need a nature fix? Take a walk in a beautiful nature spot!

Milton Keynes has a number of beautiful nature spots that visitors and locals alike can enjoy - most of my family photo sessions are carried in these stunning locations through the changing seasons. Some of my favourite nature spots in Milton Keynes are:

1. Willen Lake - This man-made lake is surrounded by a large park and offers a range of activities including water sports, cycling, and walking trails. There is also a bird sanctuary and a nature reserve.

2. Campbell Park - This large park features a mix of formal gardens and natural woodlands, and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, cycling, picnicking, and a range of outdoor events throughout the year.

3. Aspley Woods - This ancient woodland covering an area of over 400 acres is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and bats. Visitors can explore the walking trails and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

4. Ouse Valley Park - This park is located along the River Ouse and features wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, fishing, and birdwatching.

5. Linford Lakes Nature Reserve - This reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including kingfishers and herons. Visitors can explore the walking trails and bird hides, and participate in educational programs and events.

These are just a few of the many nature spots in Milton Keynes. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk in the woods or an exciting day of water sports, there's something for everyone in this beautiful town!

10) Wander around the historic towns of Stony Stratford and Woburn Sands!

1. Stony Stratford, north Milton Keynes

Stony Stratford is such a cute historic town where I spend a lot of my time. It’s bursting with independent shops and has a strong and vibrant community - you’ll usually find me editing some galleries at coffee spots French Affaire, Saints, Out of Office coffee, or the Cock Hotel!

Stony Stratford has a rich history dating back to the Roman times, and it played an important role during the medieval period as a centre for trade and commerce. The town was an important stopping point on the old coaching route between London and Holyhead, and it was known for its many inns, which provided accommodation and refreshments for travelers.

Today, Stony Stratford is a thriving town with a population of around 8,000 people. It has a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as several historic buildings, including the 13th-century parish church of St. Mary and St. Giles, and the Cock Hotel, which dates back to the 15th century.

The town is also home to several annual events, including a music festival, a beer festival, and a Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. Additionally, Stony Stratford has a strong sense of community and is known for its active local groups and societies, including the Stony Stratford Business Association and the Stony Stratford Town Football Club.

2. Woburn Sands, south Milton Keynes

I absolutely LOVE Woburn Sands, especially when it’s Market Day (held on the second Saturday of the month from 10am - 2pm)!

The town has a population of around 5,000 people and is known for its picturesque location, nestled between the Woburn Abbey Deer Park and the Aspley Woods. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is popular with walkers and cyclists who come to explore the local area.

Woburn Sands has a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as several pubs and bars. The town also has a railway station, which provides easy access to nearby towns and cities such as Milton Keynes, Bedford, and London.

One of the most notable landmarks in Woburn Sands is the Grade II listed St Michael's Church, which dates back to the 13th century. The church has a rich history and features several interesting architectural details, including a Norman font and a 14th-century brass eagle lectern.

Overall, Woburn Sands is a charming town that offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities.

I hope you liked my recommendations of things to do in Milton Keynes and found what you were looking for!

Would you like to chat about a couples, family or branding photoshoot in Milton Keynes? Or do you think somebody would love to receive one of my photo session gift vouchers?

Click on the ‘Contact me’ button below to book!

Much love,

Constance x