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Willen Lake

Milton Keynes' most popular park which offers adventures for all.

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Facilities

Parking
Car Charging
Toilets
Play Area
Fitness Trail
Cafe
Picnic Tables
Watersports
Events Area
Public Art
About Willen Lake

Willen Lake is one of Britain's largest purpose-built balancing lakes, spanning around 100 acres. It was created in the 1970's during the development of Milton Keynes to help prevent flooding. The park features two lakes to explore and has a wide range of activities on and off the water.

Willen Lake with pedalos and activities with Watersports Centre in background
Things to do

Willen Lake offers adventures for all, including the Treetop Extreme high ropes course, outdoor splash park Splash ‘n’ Play, and watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The park is home to a huge outdoor play area and accessible leisure routes with wildlife and beautiful scenery to enjoy along the way. It’s a great place to entertain family and friends of all ages!

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Heron Flying Across Willen Lake
Wildlife

Willen Lake provides habitat for a wide variety of birds. There is a bird hide situated at What3Words location crusaders.shelf.sticks, offering a great spot for bird watching. Some species to look out for are Grey Herons, Starlings, Kingfishers and Little Egrets.

If you study the water of the North lake closely enough, you may also be lucky enough to spot an Otter.

Willen Lake Public Art

Willen Lake is home to many cultural landmarks and public art pieces. At the lake you will find the Peace Pagoda which was built by the monks and nuns of the Nipponzan Myohoji as a symbol of world brotherhood. Alongside the Pagoda is the distinctive Buddhist Temple, where the public is welcome inside or to visit the grounds with their Japanese and Zen gardens. 

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An aerial view of a large, circular labyrinth set in a grassy field. The labyrinth features intricate, symmetrical pathways outlined in white, forming a complex yet harmonious pattern. The design has four rounded corners that extend outward, adding to its uniqueness. At the center of the labyrinth is a small circular area with a tree, casting a shadow. The surrounding area is lush green, and the labyrinth is perfectly integrated into the landscape, offering a tranquil and meditative visual experience.

Labyrinth

Willen Labyrinth (1988) Landscape design focusing on nature and art integration.

A serene park scene with a lush green lawn and a single, rounded tree on the left. On the right stands a smooth, white marble sculpture with abstract, flowing lines, possibly representing intertwined forms. The sculpture is inscribed with "Souls in Love. In memory of Debbie & Tony Salam." In the background, a row of tall, dark evergreen trees adds depth and contrast. The image exudes a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

Souls in Love

Souls in Love (2012) White marble sculpture donated to The Parks Trust.

Medicine Wheel

Medicine Wheel (2000) Two concentric stone circles aligned with the Midsummer Line.
The image shows a stone sculpture in a park or garden setting. The sculpture appears abstract, with smooth, rounded contours resembling a seated or crouched figure. It is placed on a square stone base, and there is a small plaque or sign mounted on a short post nearby, likely providing details about the artwork. The surrounding area consists of green grass, trimmed bushes, and trees in the background, giving it a peaceful, natural ambiance.

Hiroshima Departed

Hiroshima Departed (1985) Granite sculpture at Willen Lake North, commemorating Hiroshima victims.
The image shows a white Buddhist stupa with a golden statue of Buddha placed in an alcove at the front. The stupa is situated in a grassy area with trees in the background under a blue sky with some clouds. The stupa features a traditional pagoda-style roof with a golden ornament at the top, and it is elevated on a platform with steps leading up to it. The overall design reflects elements of Japanese or East Asian architecture.

Peace Pagoda

Peace Pagoda (1980) First of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, symbolizing peace.
Plan your visit

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