Milton Keynes has many beautiful parks and gardens to visit, the city itself has a number which are hidden amongst the urban environment, discover our recommendations here.
An oasis of calm and tranquility, The Secret Garden is an area of land running parallel to the Grand Union Canal and the East Coast railway line on the edge of Wolverton. The site was purchased from British Rail by Wolverton & Greenleys Town Council nearly 20 years ago and with the hard work and dedication from a team of volunteers the site was transformed into the special place it is today. It hosts a number of events for the local community throughout the year but is also just a beautiful place for people to sit and relax.
If you’re after open space, water, somewhere to get away from it all but still with the conveniences of toilets and somewhere to get a coffee, then Emberton Park is the one. Located to the north east of Milton Keynes, just before you reach Olney, Emberton Park is a 200 acre site and is open 365 days a year. It boasts fishing lakes, children’s play areas, pretty parkland walks and even a camping site. Bring your own BBQ and enjoy the outdoors with family and friends, with plenty of space for everyone to spread out, Emberton Park is a great place to visit.
In August 2020, Campbell park was awarded Grade II status by Historic England because of its historic interest and innovative architectural design. Owned by The Parks Trust like many in Milton Keynes, it seamlessly links the bustling central business district to the linear parks that run through Milton Keynes. With a number of pieces of art and water features, an open-air auditorium, the Grand Union canal and even a first-class cricket pitch, Campbell Park will have you exploring for hours. You may even spot the odd sheep as they graze in the wild flower meadows, all in the centre of Milton Keynes.
Hidden behind Christ the Cornerstone church in central Milton Keynes, you’ll find the Fred Roche Gardens. This open green space was named after the late general manager of the Milton Keynes Development Corporation. Fred Roche was one of the original town planners for the new city of Milton Keynes and had a strong vision for the city we know and love. This tranquil garden is a haven amid the busy commercial area of the city. There are lawns, borders, seating areas and several sculptures by artist Bernard Schottlander. Amazingly, there is also a remnant of a lane predating Milton Keynes preserved in one corner of the garden.