Heritage Open Days: 30 Mile Challenge Ride
Willen Lake South
Sunday 08 September (other dates available)This event is in the past. This page is for information purposes only.
As part of the week-long Heritage Celebration why not join us on this guided tour of Milton Keynes parkland?
The guided event starts at 10am from Milton Keynes’ most popular park, Willen Lake, where you will enjoy fantastic views of the lakeside, local wildlife, and public art. Your ride continues through Ouzel Valley Park which features breath-taking sights of towering poplar trees opening out onto the wide-open water of Caldecotte Lake. As you pedal further to Furzton Lake, then into Loughton Valley Park, you will get a chance to take in the city’s famous Concrete Cows. At this point of the ride, fatigue might start kicking in but fear not! Your next destination, Ouse Valley Park, is the perfect distraction thanks to its stunning surroundings and rich biodiversity.
Our 30-mile challenge cycle would not be complete without a visit to the historic gardens of Great Linford Manor Park with its restored ponds and arboretum. Following that, you will meander along the Grand Union Canal until you reach Campbell Park, the city’s central parkland. You will need all the pedal power to tackle the challenging ascent up to the Light Pyramid for what is arguably the best viewing point in the city. After that, it is a joyous downhill ride back to where you started at Willen Lake.
Meeting at Willen Lake South next to the Observation Wheel for a 10am start.
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The ride will take approximately 3-4 hours depending on the speed of the group, and allow for rest stops along the way at interesting points.
Although the event is marked as suitable for all ages - parents should consider whether the route and distance is suitable for younger participants.
All participants should arrive ready to go, with a bike that's suitable for the route - MTB, Gravel or Cyclocross. The route includes section of off-road so a road style bike wouldn't be suitable.
We recommend that all participants should wear a properly sized and fitted helmet for their own safety. You will also need to bring drinks, food to last the journey.
There is ample parking at Willen Lake (parking charges apply), toilets to use before starting, and then the cafe to celebrate at after finishing the ride.
If you have any questions about the event please contact us on events@theparkstrust.com.