It’s crunchy leaves season! From golden apples and cycle rides to half term fun and hands-on conservation, The Parks Trust has a packed programme of events across Milton Keynes this October and November. With free and low-cost activities for families, nature lovers, volunteers and outdoor adventurers of all ages and abilities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city’s green spaces this autumn.
Golden Jubilee Apple Day
Sat 17 October at Woughton Orchard | 12-4pm | Free
Celebrate 50 years of the Community Orchard with The Parks Trust and Mid Shires Orchard Group at Apple Day. This all-things-apple and fun-filled afternoon is the perfect opportunity to discover the wonderful world of orchards and their bounty.
Orienteering with SMOC
Sun 18 October at Linford Wood | 10am-12pm | £5
Join the South Midlands Orienteering Club for a challenging outdoor adventure sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
Half Term Open Mornings
Tue, Wed & Thu during half term at Howe Park Wood | 9.30am-12.30pm | Free
Free for everyone to simply drop-in during half term and learn all about the natural world. The bats, spiders and fungi theme for October half term offers visitors a chance to take part in nature-themed activities before heading into the woodland on a self-guided trail. For those wanting more, there’s also a pre-bookable Nature Craft session.
Home to endangered animals and plant species, Howe Park Wood is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England for its wildlife value.
Parks & Ride: Autumn Trail Ride
Sun 1 November in Campbell Park | 9am | Free
This isn’t your normal Sunday spin… it’s a longer, more technical ride for experienced cyclists who enjoy a challenge! Together, take on a guided group ride through trails, bridle paths, Redways, and hidden woodland routes that showcase the very best of MK’s great outdoors. So, grab your hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike, gear up, and get ready for some muddy, scenic, off-road fun!
Autumn Night Hike
Thu 5 November at Caldecotte Lake | 5.30pm | Free
Explore the Milton Keynes’ parks after dark! Led by one of The Parks Trust’s experienced staff, this night-time walk will take you on a journey through Caldecotte, Simpson village, along the Grand Union canal, Woughton on the Green and Ouzel Valley.
Talk: Balancing Lakes and Wetlands in a Water-wise City
Thu 12 November at Howe Park Wood | 5.30pm | £5
Have you ever wondered why Milton Keynes experiences very little residential flooding compared to other parts of the UK, despite the prevalence of waterways across the city? At this insightful talk, you can find out more about the fascinating flood defence systems across the city as well as the Wetland Arc Project.
Wetland Arc Project: Community Tree Planting
Sat 14 November in Ouse Valley Park | 10am | Free
A chance to get involved with the Wetland Arc Project and help to create a new wood meadow in Old Wolverton. Take part in this tree planting session to help The Parks Trust protect the environment by increasing biodiversity, boosting local wildlife habitat, and enhancing the city’s parkland to become more climate resilient.
Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says “As the leaves begin to turn, we’re looking forward to an autumn full of fun, exploration and family-friendly activities across MK’s parks, with something for all ages to enjoy. From wildlife experiences to chances to give back through volunteering, we’d love to help more people discover the amazing parks and green spaces on their doorstep.”
Milton Keynes has over 40 different parks to explore and enjoy, with a huge choice of free play areas, walking and cycling routes, trim trails, and world-class outdoor artworks. There are many more activities and events in the city’s parks to take part in, including:
Health Rides 1 October (and every other Thursday) at Campbell Park
Parks & Run 4 October at Furzton Lake
Oktoberfest 9 & 10 October in Campbell Park
Parks & Ride 25 October in Loughton Valley Park
Community Litter Pick 30 October in Waterhall Park
Woof Walk 31 October at Stanton Low Park
Parks & Run 1 November at Willen Lake
Women’s Walking Network 5 November at Caldecotte Lake
Community Litter Pick 10 November at Milton Keynes Rose
Armistice Day 11 November at Milton Keynes Rose
For more details, booking and full schedule of parkland events, visit theparkstrust.com/events
