Event Locations

Events can be held in most parks, but some are more suitable than others. For larger events Campbell Park and Willen Lake are most suited. For more intimate events parks like Linford Manor Park and Bancroft Park may be a better option. The Events Team can advise regarding suitable locations however there are some areas where it would not be possible to host events, particularly our grazing areas and sensitive sites like our nature reserves.

How long will it take to process my event application?

Depending on the size and nature of your event your application may take a few weeks to process. Whilst we can be flexible we do require at least 12 weeks’ notice to process an event licence.
When do I pay my event licence and land bond?

Once your application has been accepted you will receive a licence to sign and return. Alongside the licence to sign will be your invoice stating the amount to pay and details on how to pay it is at this point you are required to pay unless we give other instruction.
When will I receive the return of my land bond?

Once your event has finished how you leave the parkland will be assessed by a member of the team. If the parkland has been left in a good condition with no damage to the land and no litter left behind we will arrange for our finance team to return your deposit. The bond is usually returned in full after the event but, occasionally, it may be necessary to retain all or part of the bond to cover repairs. If this happens a full explanation of the costs which are being recovered will be supplied to you. Please note this process can take a couple of weeks.
Can I have live music at my event?

At most events live music is fine provided you do not use a PA system before 9.30am and keep sound levels at a reasonable level, i.e. not over 75dBA, due to the close proximity many of the parks have to residential areas. You must disclose on your event application if you will have live entertainment. For public events for fewer than 499 people you may need an entertainment licence (Temporary Event Notice) from Milton Keynes Council in addition to the permission we give to use the parkland. For events for over 500 people you will need to apply for a Premises Licence from Milton Keynes Council, this process takes a minimum of six weeks. Please see information above on how to apply for this.
Can I sell alcohol at my event?

If you wish to sell alcohol at your event you will need a Temporary Event Notice/Premises Licence from Milton Keynes Council in addition to the permission we give to use the parkland. Please see information above on how to apply for this. You must disclose on your event application if you will be selling alcohol at your event.
My licence gives me non-exclusive permission to use the park for my event, what does that mean?

Our parks are public open parks and your licence gives permission to use the park for your activity but not exclusively. A licence issued by The Parks Trust is a non-exclusive licence so other people are entitled to use the space at the same time as you, whether they are walkers, cyclists, dog walkers etc. We are not able to guarantee that other activities will not take place at the same time as parks in Milton Keynes are public parks, however where possible, we do try and ensure that large events do not happen in the same place at the same time.

The Parks Trust hosted over 550 events in their parks in 2017
Fitness Groups & Clubs make up 72% of events & activities held in our parks
97% of attendees in 2017 said they would re-attend events held throughout the year

Discover our parks

Campbell Park
Facilities:
Located at the heart of Milton Keynes, Campbell Park hosts many of Milton Keynes’ major festivals and events. Its imaginative mix of formal gardens, water features, woodland and open pasture mean it’s an ideal spot to enjoy the changing seasons.

Refreshments
There are no refreshment facilities in Campbell Park other than during special events. However, there are a wealth of cafes, bars and restaurants in the nearby city centre, theatre district and Xscape centre.

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Willen Lake South
Facilities:
Willen Lake is Milton Keynes’ most popular park. Visitors take part in watersports activities, go cycling, enjoy the playground, try the high ropes course or simply picnic along Willen’s shores. It’s a great place to entertain all ages of family and friends, whether it’s a visit to the café or restaurant, a stroll, trying a beginners’ course in sailing or hiring a pedalo or bike.

Refreshments
The one4six café and The Lakeside Pub operated by Fayre and Square.

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Great Linford Manor Park
Facilities:
Great Linford Manor Park is a special, heritage-rich park set within the old village of Great Linford. It contains features that were first laid out centuries ago, including ponds and a Wilderness Garden which represent the English Landscape style of garden design that became popular for country estates during the 18th Century.

Refreshments
Refreshments and food can be found nearby at The Black Horse and the Nag’s Head which are open for lunch and supper. Milton Keynes Arts Centre has a small café where drinks can be purchased.

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