Milton Keynes’ lakes – find the right one for you
Discover Milton Keynes' lakes – from the buzz of Willen to the quiet of Lodge Lake. Find your perfect spot for activities, walks, picnics and fishing.
Milton Keynes has more than its fair share of lakes – and each one has its own character. Some are buzzing with activity: watersports, events, cafés and families making a full day of it. Others are quieter, better suited to a peaceful walk or an early morning with a fishing rod.
Did you know? Most of Milton Keynes' lakes are balancing lakes, designed to help prevent residential flooding in the surrounding area. As well as being brilliant places to visit, they play an important role in protecting the city's communities.
Our lake parks
Willen Lake – best for a big day out
Willen Lake is Milton Keynes’ flagship lake and one of the most visited green spaces in the region. Split into two areas, it offers something for everyone.
Willen Lake South is the livelier of the two – home to paddleboarding, kayaking, open water swimming, sailing, pedalos and a huge play area. Drift Bar & Kitchen is a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat whilst enjoying the views and there’s a busy events programme throughout the year.
Willen Lake North is quieter, with peaceful lakeside walking, wildlife to spot and the beautiful Peace Pagoda as a focal point.
Car parking charges apply at Willen Lake. Accessible paths run around both lakes, and there’s toilets including a Changing Places facility onsite.
Caldecotte Lake – best for watersports and walking
Caldecotte Lake is a great spot for anyone who loves being on the water. It's home to designated clubs for canoeing, rowing and sailing, and the flat circular path around the lake makes for a satisfying walk with open water views throughout.
Furzton Lake – best for a relaxed afternoon
Furzton Lake has a lovely local feel. The path around the lake is ideal for walking, jogging or a gentle cycle – and the open green space makes it a popular spot for picnics. The lake is also popular with anglers, with fishing platforms situated around the site. Free car parking can be found at the Triple Star Car Park. Charges apply for stays of over 2 hours at Shirwell Crescent car park.
Lodge Lake – best for wildlife and quiet walks
Lodge Lake is one of Milton Keynes’ quieter parks, and a favourite with birdwatchers. It attracts a variety of waterfowl throughout the year, and the surrounding green space and mature trees give it a genuinely peaceful feel. Fishing is available here with a platforms situated around the lake.
Teardrops Lakes – best for exploring off the beaten track
The Teardrops Lakes in Downs Barn are a series of smaller lakes connected by paths – a quieter, less well-known corner of our green spaces and a rewarding spot if you're looking to get away from the busier parks.
Watersports
Paddleboarding, kayaking, open water swimming and sailing are available to the public at Willen Lake. Book an activity or hire equipment through the Watersport Centre. Caldecotte Lake has designated clubs for canoeing, rowing and sailing.
Walking and cycling
All of our lake parks have paths around the water, and most connect to the wider redway cycling network. Willen Lake and Caldecotte Lake offer the longest circular routes.
Fishing
Fishing is available at Lodge Lake, Caldecotte Lake, Furzton Lake, Teardrops Lakes and Willen Lake. More information can be found from MK Angling Association.
Picnics
The grassy areas around Willen Lake, Furzton Lake and Caldecotte Lake are all popular picnic spots, and many of our parks have snack kiosks and food options nearby.
Wildlife watching
Lodge Lake and Willen Lake North are particularly good for birdwatching. Look out for herons, cormorants and a variety of waterfowl throughout the year.
Events
Willen Lake hosts events throughout the year, from family fun days to running races. We host guided walks throughout the year so you can discover a new lake with us. Check out our events calendar for what’s on.
Good to know before you visit
Parking: Most of our lake parks have free parking nearby. Please note that Willen Lake car parks and Shirwell Crescent car park at Furzton Lake have parking charges.
Facilities: Facilities vary across our lake parks - check individual park pages for more details. Cafés and food outlets are run by independent businesses and opening hours can change.
Accessibility: Most of our lakes have flat paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs - check out our park pages for accessible information. AccessAble guides are available for Willen Lake, Caldecotte Lake and Furzton Lake which provide an extra level of detail.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome at all our lakes. Please keep them on a lead near water edges, play areas and anywhere livestock may be grazing.
Water safety: Open water can be dangerous. Please take a moment to read our water safety guidance before your visit.
Ready to find your lake?
Use our Find a Park tool to explore our full range of parks and green spaces across Milton Keynes.