Poplar Plantation
Walk amongst the trees between Willen Lake and the Ouzel Valley.
Facilities
What's happening at the Poplar Plantation?
In 2024, The Parks Trust launched an ambitious project to rejuvenate this park and create a lasting legacy for the newly designated city — an arboretum for Milton Keynes.
Originally planted in 1971 as a poplar plantation, the area quickly became iconic, full of tall, distinctive trees. Prone to canker diseases, many trees were replanted in the 1980s with a mix of poplars to see which species would thrive.
These trees grew quickly but were structurally weak and short-lived, this meant that many of the hybrid poplars had to be removed due to safety risks and poor health. Their time was running out and a new vision was needed.
Over the next 15 years, this space will be transformed into a vibrant arboretum — a place to explore and learn about a rich mix of native and non-native trees and shrubs. New habitats will emerge. Hedgerows, wildflower meadows, and woodland areas will boost biodiversity and bring nature closer to the community.
The Parks Trust Operations Team is carefully designing inspiring landscapes, from graceful weeping willows lining the river, to sweeping cherry blossom displays and bursts of autumn colour.
Meanwhile, our Outdoor Learning and Events Teams are inviting schools, community groups, and residents from across the city to get involved — planting trees, getting muddy, and discovering the wonders of the natural world.
Plans also include a cherry tree grove, a picnic area, and a small events space. Trails and interpretation will help visitors understand the plants and the challenges they face — from climate change to pests and diseases.
What can I do there now?
This scenic area of parkland is great for a short stroll amongst the trees, or you can incorporate it into a longer walking, running or cycling route through Willen Lake or Ouzel Valley Park. The area is well signposted so you can continue to explore Milton Keynes' vast green spaces easily. It is also a great location for dog walking.
We recommend visiting in autumn to enjoy the carpet of leaves that cover the ground towards the end of the year. Please take care and avoid this area in high winds as branches can fall off onto the ground below.
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Discover Milton's Keynes' most popular park right next door to the Poplar Plantation. There's so much to do both on and off the water.
Poplars will continue to be part of the planting mix. Some of the older, healthy poplars will remain and, as with all our trees, will continue to be monitored. The species rather blandly named TT-32, is particularly impressive, and can be seen along the edges of the park.
As the arboretum matures, it will become a cherished green space for the people of Milton Keynes — a place to connect with nature, learn, and enjoy.