Details revealed for 2026 Milton Keynes Walking Festival

The Parks Trust has announced the line-up for Milton Keynes’ annual Walking Festival, which will take place in multiple city parks in May.

Organised by the charity caring for the city’s green spaces, this year’s MK Walking Festival provides lots of different outdoor activities. The organisers are hoping their activities will be ones for people of all activity groups, whether its more casual strollers, seasoned hikers or families.

One event will be on Friday 8 May from 12.30pm at MK Museum. Patrons can moo-ch by both sets of the city’s iconic concrete cows on a 2-3-mile walk to discover the public art in the north of the city – setting off from Milton Keynes Museum, a new walking festival partner.

Another event on Friday 8 May starts from 6pm. People here can make a mini pilgrimage around the Tree Cathedral, stopping around the site to hear stories of debauchery by a set of fictious characters on their pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral.

Saturday 9 May sees an event start from 2pm at Campbell Park. On this walk, people can enjoy a short scenic walk guided by local photographer Nicky Kenny, to capture some amazing photos. Whether you’re using your phone or a camera you’ll capture something special.

Saturday 9 May also has an 11am event at Woughton Orchard. This Spring Apple Amble looks to explore the Woughton on the Green Community Orchard, its historic fruit trees and find out fascinating facts about the fruits found in the area. The orchard celebrates its Golden Jubilee this year, with seasonal events for visitors to enjoy the surroundings and meet Mid Shires Orchard Group – the people caring for the amazing community facility.

Another event on Saturday 9 May starts from 11am at Great Linford Manor Park. This is an inclusive, guided ramble designed for wheelchair users. Participants will learn about local wildlife, plants, and the natural history of the area, all while connecting with fellow adventurers. Perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without barriers. Families and caregivers are welcome.

Sunday 10 May sees an event start from 2pm at Howe Park Wood. Hear some of the finest local writers reading their work whilst sharing how trees and woods inspire their imaginations. This Literary Walk is hosted in partnership with MK Lit Fest whose annual creative writing competition is themed ‘The Trees’ this year.

Most events are free, some events have limited space and require booking, so if you fancy a walking conversation, exploring a new park, or learning new skills, check out the full line-up of events on:
theparkstrust.com/walkingfestival

David Lewis, Recreation & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at The Parks Trust, said, “We’re so excited for this year’s bigger and better annual Walking Festival! It’s grown to a now five day festival, with a programme that offers a huge variety of themes and experiences to encourage people outdoors to walk throughout the city”

The Parks Trust would like to extend thanks to all festival partners, including: Electra, Linford Wood Parkrun, MacIntyre, Milton Keynes City Council, MK Health Walks, MK Lit Fest, MK Museum, MK Ramblers, Newport Pagnell Historical Society, Q:alliance, Redway Runners, Shenley Brook End Parish Council.

Seasonal activities also continue during the Walking Festival including bat walks, inclusive strolls, and Women’s Walking Network, so there’s truly something for everybody. Stay in-the-know with The Parks Trust’s monthly newsletter – sign up at theparkstrust.com/newsletter