Caldecotte Lake is a part of the Parks Trust and is one of Milton Keynes most spectacular lakes. Rich in history, a 150-year skeleton of an Ichthyosaur was discovered when the lake was originally excavated in 1972. It is now at the Milton Keynes Central library.
Reviewed by Milton Keynes mum Tanjeela Sufi
The children’s playground is positioned right in front of the lake and has lots of play equipment suitable for kids of all ages. The best feature in the Caldecotte Lake children’s playground are the swings where you feel you are swinging over the lake. It’s an exhilarating feeling taking in the wonderful sights while feeling like you are almost flying on top of the lake.
The lake contains plenty of wildlife. The ducks and swans are dotted in and around the lakes adds to the storybook feel of a family visit. It is an ideal place for birdwatchers as there are two bird hides at the Southern end of the lake and it is home to a variety of water birds. Cows can also be seen grazing at the end of Caldecotte North.
Make sure to take along some books, toys, a football, bubbles, frisbee, a scooter anything that would keep the little ones entertained while letting off some steam. The pathways are a good place if you’re looking for somewhere for kids to go biking or scooting in Milton Keynes.
The walks and trails around the parks are wonderful for a family walk in Milton Keynes or a bike ride while overlooking the spectacular views of the lake. The trail consists of outdoor gym equipment and a ping pong table which is teriffic for staying fit and healthy during lockdown.
An ice cream van or a coffee van is usually present at the front of the park, which is a huge convenience especially during lockdown. Caldecotte Lake is a perfect spot for a family picnic in Milton Keynes. The lake has various scenic spots overlooking flower fields and streams. Caldecotte Lake North has a picturesque barbecue area with a few picnic benches.
The Caldecotte Minature Railway is a fun railway train situated behind the Windmill pub. It’s usually open from April to October in the afternoons. 13:00 to 17:00, every Sunday , as well as bank holidays and special events. Check out their website for more info and next railway running dates.
If you’re looking for a family friendly pub in Milton Keynes with a playpark, the Caldecotte Arms inside the old Windmill is known to serve delicious food. The outdoor seating area is perfect for sunny days, with a great view of the lake and a stones throw from the play park.
The lake is also home to a few boating clubs if you are an experienced rower or wanting sailing lessons. Fishing is permitted in the fishing bank if you purchase a day ticket from the Milton Keynes angling Association.
A privately-owned education centre called ‘The Caldecotte Experience Action 4 youth is located at Caldecotte lake. They offer residential accommodation for educational purposes for young people along with outdoor activities for team building. Activities which take place at Caldecotte lake consist of: rock climbing, abseiling, water zorbing, wind surfing, archery, raft building and many more activities.
Caldecotte Lake all in all is not as busy as many of the other lakes at Milton Keynes thus making it more attractive during lockdown. The dazzling lake, the fastastically beautiful scenery and the natural surroundings makes you feel at one with nature.
Caldecotte Lake parking
Free parking is available at the following car parking areas in Milton Keynes:
H10 Bletcham Way eastbound (hotel and play area), Monellan Grove, off H10 Bletcham Way westbound, Simpson Road, Simpson.
Caldecotte Lake Toilets
Unfortunately there are no toilet facilities available the lake. The Caldecotte Arms has toilets but these are for the use of customers only.
