Willen Lake

Willen Lake: watersports and adventure in Milton Keynes

Willen Lake is a leisure park located in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom, managed by The Parks Trust, an independent charity that cares for over 6,000 acres of green space in the city. The park, which according to its presentation receives more than a million visitors a year, is centred around two lakes and offers a wide variety of activities both on the water and on dry land.

Popular activities and watersports

The park has a watersports centre from which activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, canoeing and powerboating are organised. The offer includes beginner and advanced courses, some of them with RYA (Royal Yachting Association) certification. Boats such as pedalos can also be hired, and rowing sports can be practised.

Land-based activities include adventure golf, with a wildlife-themed course; archery; axe throwing; and Treetop Extreme, a high ropes course that allows you to climb, jump and swing. In addition, the park has Splash 'n' Play, an outdoor splash park with more than 60 water features.

Programmes for families, schools and groups

Willen Lake offers specific activities for families, as well as programmes for schools and groups. During the school holidays, courses and activity days are organised for young people aged 8 to 15. The park also has a large outdoor play area and accessible leisure routes to enjoy the wildlife and scenery.

Events and seasonal experiences

Throughout the year events are held such as Flavour Fest (autumn edition), with street food, bar and music; Willen On Ice, a winter ice rink with rides and festive treats; and inclusive strolls with sensory narration organised by The Parks Trust. The park also hosts events such as marathons, fun runs, dog shows and cultural days, and offers the possibility of hiring its spaces for filming and photography sessions, subject to fees.

History and cultural surroundings

Willen Lake is one of the largest purpose-built balancing lakes in Britain, spanning around 100 acres. It was created in the 1970s during the development of Milton Keynes to help prevent flooding. Nearby are cultural landmarks such as the Peace Pagoda, the Maze and the Medicine Wheel.

Services and facilities

The park has several car parks for visitors, toilets (including accessible ones) and changing rooms. The Change Please Café is located in the watersports centre, offering food and drink. Willen Lake also sells the Willen Wonders card, which according to the site information provides a 20% discount on activities and other exclusive offers.

Management and ownership

Willen Lake is managed by The Parks Trust, a charitable entity responsible for maintaining Milton Keynes' parks. Income from the use of the facilities helps fund the development and care of the city's green spaces. The park operates under the company name Whitecap Leisure Ltd, registered in England and Wales with company number 03979736.

Location and contact

Willen Lake Watersports Centre, V10 Brickhill St, Milton Keynes, MK15 0DS · Phone: 01908 246599 · Email: enquiries@willenlake.org.uk