To mark the closing months of its 30th birthday year, The Parks Trust has created a brand new 30-mile cycle route around some of the city’s most beautiful parks, lakes and landscapes.
The 30 Mile Challenge Cycle is designed to be done in a single ride, making it ideal for confident cyclists in search of a new adventure. Less experienced riders can complete the challenge in stages over time.
The route provides a seamless ride around the city, made possible thanks to the innovative linear system of parks that connect the whole of Milton Keynes.
Anyone who takes on the challenge will begin it with a circuit of Milton Keynes' most popular park, Willen Lake. After enjoying its lakeside views, the route continues south into the beautiful Ouzel Valley Park and on further to the wide-open vistas of Caldecotte Lake.
From there, it’s onwards to Furzton Lake, then north into Loughton Valley Park before passing the city's famous Concrete Cows at just over the halfway point. To boost riders towards the finish line, they will then see the stunning surroundings and rich biodiversity of Ouse Valley Park.
The route also passes through the recently restored gardens and ponds of Great Linford Manor Park before arriving in Campbell Park. The hardest ascent is left until last, heading up towards the Light Pyramid for what is arguably the city's best viewing point. After that, it’s a joyous downhill cruise back to the starting point at Willen Lake.
Operations Manager at The Parks Trust, James Cairncross, devised the route and is a keen cyclist. He says, “We hope people from near and far enjoy our new cycle challenge. It’s a great way to keep fit and visit 18 of the most beautiful parks in Milton Keynes. Three-quarters of the route is through land managed by The Parks Trust so it is a really fitting way to celebrate our 30th anniversary, and for our residents and visitors to appreciate just how green our city is.”
For more details on the 30 Mile Challenge Cycle, visit:https://www.theparkstrust.com/30milechallenge