A series of free events celebrating Milton Keynes’ history, wildlife and green spaces will take place this September as The Parks Trust marks Heritage Open Days with guided walks, cycle rides, workshops and volunteering activities across the city.
Timber, Tannin, and Tradition: The Historical Role of Trees
Fri 11 September, 2pm at Canal Broadwalk
An insightful guided walk exploring the rich history of trees and their role in everyday life. Discover a variety of species, uncover traditional folklore and practical uses, and learn about local heritage landmarks including the Great Linford Brick Kilns. Suitable for all ages, this free 90‑minute event offers a unique opportunity to see Milton Keynes’ landscape through a historical lens. Booking required.
Community Volunteering: Heritage Heroes
Sat 12 September, 10am-12.30pm at Great Linford Manor Park
Become a Heritage Hero with The Parks Trust at Great Linford Manor Park. Join a rewarding conservation session helping to restore and protect the unique Blisworth Limestone habitat, which supports a rich variety of wildlife, wildflowers and even fossils. Suitable for all ages, this free volunteering event is a great opportunity to make a positive impact on Milton Keynes’ natural heritage while enjoying the outdoors. No booking required.
Gyosei Art Trail Walk
Sat 12 September, 11am at Canal Broadwalk
Explore striking public artworks inspired by Japanese connections, canal heritage and local history, with special insights from artist Melanie Seymour about her stunning Autumn Splendour mosaic. Suitable for all ages, this free 90-minute walk offers a fascinating opportunity to experience one of Milton Keynes’ most distinctive outdoor art trails beside the Grand Union Canal. Booking required.
Heritage Ride
Sun 13 September, 11am at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve
A scenic guided cycle through the north of Milton Keynes, taking in local heritage landmarks including Bancroft Villa, Bradwell Abbey and Bradwell Windmill, while exploring some of the city’s best cycling routes. There’ll also be a stop off at the Wolverton Canal & Rail Festival. Suitable for all ages, this free event is a great way to discover local history, enjoy the outdoors and experience Milton Keynes from a new perspective. No booking required.
Wetlands and Weaving Workshop
Tue 15 September, 6pm at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve
Join The Parks Trust and Milton Keynes Arts Centre to explore the wildlife-rich habitats of the River Great Ouse, learn about the history of heritage crafts linked to local wetlands, and try your hand at creating a mini cordage craft. Suitable for all ages, this free guided experience offers a relaxing and engaging way to connect with Milton Keynes’ natural and cultural heritage. Booking required.
Discover Old Wolverton Village and the Wetland Arc
Wed 16 September, 5pm at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve
Discover a Scheduled Ancient Monument, including the site of a medieval motte and bailey castle, uncover clues hidden within the landscape, and learn more about the ambitious Wetland Arc project shaping the future of nature conservation in north Milton Keynes. Suitable for all ages, this free event offers a unique opportunity to connect with both the area's rich heritage and its evolving natural environment. Booking required.
Ancient Woodland Wander
Fri 18 September, 11am at Shenley Wood
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Shenley Wood with The Parks Trust and Westbury Arts Centre. This free event will uncover the heritage of one of Milton Keynes’ ancient woodlands, highlighting its history, wildlife, woodland management and ongoing accessibility improvements. Suitable for all ages, it’s a wonderful opportunity to discover the stories hidden within this treasured landscape while enjoying a relaxing woodland wander. Booking required.
Discover Bancroft Roman Villa
Sat 19 September, 11am at Bancroft
Step back nearly 2,000 years on a guided exploration of Bancroft Roman Villa, led by The Parks Trust and Milton Keynes Museum. Discover the remains of this fascinating Roman site, learn about the people who may have lived there, and see remarkable artefacts including mosaics, frescoes, coins and jewellery. Suitable for all ages, this free event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Roman history of Milton Keynes. Booking required.
Orchard Foraging Walk
Sun 20 September, 2pm at Woughton Community Orchard
Join The Parks Trust and the Mid Shires Orchard Group to discover the tantalising history of Milton Keynes’ community orchards, learn about the wide variety of local fruit trees, and pick up expert tips on foraging and orchard care along the way. Suitable for all ages, this free event is a wonderful opportunity to explore local heritage, enjoy the outdoors and even take home some freshly foraged fruit. Booking required.
Julie Dawes, Events & Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says “Heritage Open Days are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the stories, landscapes and communities that make Milton Keynes so special. This year’s programme brings together a fantastic mix of walks, rides, workshops and volunteering activities, all designed to help people discover more about the city’s rich natural and cultural heritage. We’re delighted to offer these events for free and hope they inspire people of all ages to explore their local parks, learn something new and feel even more connected to the green spaces on their doorstep.”
Tickets available now at theparkstrust.com/heritageopendays
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