Step into spring with outdoor activities in Milton Keynes’ parks this May!

May offers plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s extensive green spaces, whether you’re looking for gentle walks, fitness challenges, family-friendly activities, or new hobbies to try outdoors.

Make the most of longer days and greener landscapes with an exciting programme of outdoor activities and events taking place across Milton Keynes’ parks.

Walking Festival

Wed 6 – Sun 10 May

Whether you're a casual stroller, a seasoned hiker, or looking for new experiences, there’ll be something for everyone of all ages at this year’s Walking Festival, organised by The Parks Trust and fantastic partners including Q: Alliance, Camphill Communities, MK Museum and MacIntyre. Discover the full line-up attheparkstrust.com/walkingfestival

Golden Spring Picnic

Sat 9 May at Woughton Community Orchard

Gather friends and family for a picnic in MK’s largest orchard in its golden jubilee year! Celebrate 50 years of the community orchard with themed activities, facepainting, bubble displays and fruity treats.

Green Break

Thu 14 May at Loughton Valley

Do you work in Stacey Bushes or the surrounding area? Join The Parks Trust event series designed to give staff of local businesses the opportunity to enjoy a lunch break outdoors whilst exploring a green space close to their place of work.

Big Doggie Do

Sat 16 & Sun 17 May at Willen Lake

Grab the lead for walkies to Willen Lake as the paw-some Big Doggie Do returns, packed with pooch-themed displays, activities, talks, and more! Enter the annual Dog Show sponsored by MK Vet Group, explore stalls and local charities, tuck into delicious street food, and enjoy meeting different breeds of dog throughout the weekend. Everything to get those tails wagging can be found at theparkstrust.com/bigdoggiedo

Love Willen

Sat 23 May at Willen Lake

A totally feel-good day, Love Willen brings free family activities, sponsored swims, a 5k family fun walk, food, community stalls and plenty more - all while raising vital funds for local hospice care!

Half Term Open Mornings

Tue 26 – Thu 28 May at Howe Park Wood, 9.30am-12.30pm

Free for everyone to simply drop-in during half term and learn all about the natural world. The Tree-mendous Trees theme for May half term offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature-themed challenges, take a self-guided trail through the woodland, or purchase tickets to a Nature Craft session.

Howe Park Wood provides a safe home to many endangered animal and plant species and has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England for its wildlife value. Golden Picnic!

Guided Walk with British Sign Language (BSL)

Sun 31 May at Great Linford Manor Park

Join the Friends of Great Linford Manor Park on a British Sign Language Interpreted guided walk to discover the historic features of this unique site. Uncover the ancient origins of the park all the way up to the modern era, including hidden gems such as the Veteran Lime Tree, Doric Seat and Ha-ha, which survive from the 18th century English Landscape Garden design of the park.

Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says, “This time of year is ideal for enjoying the city’s parks – they’re buzzing with exciting activity! Nature’s springing into life, and our events programme is built to help residents tap into that energy. From relaxed woodland walks and family picnics to vibrant events and inclusive guided tours, there really is something for everyone!”.

May might be National Walking Month but there are endless ways to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces.

Maybe you’d find your feet in a walking group, pick up the pace at a Parks & Run, or take to wheels on an MK Health Ride. Green-thinking young minds may find inspiration at The Parks Trust’s careers showcase or the whole family could soak up the atmosphere as the season of cultural festivals commences in Campbell Park.

Find your next outdoor adventure at theparkstrust.com/events