Information about our Education Centres
In addition to sessions run in our parks across Milton Keynes, the Parks Trust also runs two Education Centres - Howe Park Wood and Linford Lakes. Please note that the latter is currently closed due to refurbishment.
Our centres are used for school group sessions, talks and workshops run by The Parks Trust. We also run free open mornings at these centres during most holidays. Please see the Whats on Page for events coming up. We also rent out the classroom to groups that align with our charitable objectives (see bookings below).
Howe Park Wood Education & Visitor Centre
The Education & Visitor Centre was commissioned to provide a focal point for delivering environmental education activities and raise awareness of the natural history of both the SSSI at Howe Park Wood and more generally the natural history of Milton Keynes and work of The Parks Trust.
The centre comprises of a classroom, toilet facilities and an independently run café.
Hours of operation:
- The classroom is usually available for school bookings from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Friday. For details of school sessions please click here.
- For the café opening hours, please refer to the Grounds website.
- Holidays: The education centre is open for limited periods during the holiday period. Please check our what's on section and social media channels for details.
Bookings:
The classroom can be booked for school sessions with The Parks Trust and by external groups that align with our charitable objectives (environmental and outdoor learning activities). The cost for external group bookings is £50 for half a day and £100 for 8.30 am-5.00 pm (excluding VAT). There is a small kitchen with tea-making facilities.
To book you will need contact us to discuss your requirements and check availability. We will then send you forms to complete.
Stages of Booking:
- Contact us to discuss requirements and check availability
- Complete a booking form
- Read and sign the Terms and Conditions
- Provide us with your Risk Assessment
- Provide a copy of your Public Liability Insurance
To discuss hiring the classroom, please contact us on 01908 233600 or email outdoorlearning@theparkstrust.com
About the building:
There are features of green technology such as PV Panels, an air source heat pump and low water usage taps that we can use to demonstrate sustainable energy use. Externally, the Centre is constructed with integral bird nesting boxes and insect habitat boxes which will provide an additional educational resource. There is also a pond dipping platform area to enable access to the ponds for study by outdoor learning groups.
Linford Lakes Nature Reserve Education Centre
Please note, Linford Lakes Education Centre is currently undergoing work to improve its energy efficiency and restore its green roof. It is closed to the public until further notice.
