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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

Minoru Okha and Tom Hancock (1980)

The first of its kind in the Western hemisphere, the Milton Keynes Peace Pagoda was built by the monks and nuns of the Nipponzan Myohoji, a spiritual movement. The Peace Pagoda enshrines sacred relics of Lord Buddha presented from Nepal, Sri Lanka and Berlin. The Pagoda frieze is of traditional design and tells the story of Buddha from his birth 2,500 years ago at the foot of the Himalayas to his death at Kusinagara after 50 years of teaching. The Peace Pagoda sits next to the Buddhist Temple which regularly hosts services and spiritual events throughout the year.

The Peace Pagoda can be found at Willen Lake North at What3Words location orbited.period.closet.

Willen Lake signage with the lake in the background
Discover 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.

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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. 

View all public art
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.