Milton Keynes Canal, River and Lakes Walk

7.6 miles (12.3 km)

This long circular walk around Milton Keynes takes visits Caldecotte Lake, the River Ouzel, the Grand Union Canal, and Willen Lake.
It's a great way of exploring the town on foot and visiting some of the most picturesque places.... There's miles of good waterside footpaths and some lovely parkland to enjoy too.
Start the walk from the Caldecotte Lake car park where there's a miniature railway and trim trail. Follow the riverside trails north towards Simpson where you enter Ouzel Valley Park. Here you will find attractive plantations of Poplar Trees, lovely meadows and the remains of medieval villages with their associated fish ponds. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including woodpeckers, kingfisher and little grebe.
The paths eventually lead you to Willen Lake. There's nice footpaths here leading around the south and north lake. Features include a Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist Temple, Japanese gardens and bird hides where you can look out for the wading birds which visit the lake.
At Newlands you can follow a footpath to the Grand Union Canal in Campbell Park. Pick up the towpath and head south and you will return to Caldecotte Lake.
Pubs and More Info
On the eastern side of the town there's Newport Pagnell to explore. There's some lovely riverside trails, a fine local park and several historic buildings to see in this neighbouring town. The town is well known for being the original home of the exclusive sports car manufacturer Aston Martin. There's also a Grade I listed iron bridge dating from the early 19th century to see here.