Here’s what’s worth knowing in Milton Keynes this week.

Hear, Here! public artwork installed in Hazeley Wood

A new public artwork has been installed in Hazeley Wood, designed to help visitors listen more closely to the natural sounds of the woodland..

The installation, called Hear, Here!, features large sound-gathering cones that amplify birdsong from the surrounding trees, along with a bird-identification pole created with help from local schoolchildren.

The project was delivered by The Parks Trust in partnership with Milton Keynes City Council using public art funding linked to nearby development.

Photo: The Parks Trust

Holiday activities programme confirmed for Milton Keynes families

A programme of free holiday activities for children and young people in Milton Keynes has been confirmed for 2026.

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) scheme provides organised sessions during school holidays, including sports, creative activities, and meals for eligible families. Events take place at venues across the city and are funded by the government and coordinated locally by Milton Keynes City Council.

Families can check the council website for dates, locations, and eligibility details.

Image: Milton Keynes City Council

Record number of families accessing free early years education in Milton Keynes

More families in Milton Keynes are accessing free early years education, according to new figures released by the government.

Around 90% of eligible two-year-olds in the city are now enrolled in a pre-school, nursery, or with a childminder through the council’s “Time for Twos” scheme. This places Milton Keynes among the highest-performing areas in the South East.

The scheme provides up to 15 hours of funded childcare per week for eligible families and aims to support children’s early development while helping parents with childcare costs.

Families can check eligibility and apply through the council website.

Photo: Milton Keynes City Council

Spring activities planned across Milton Keynes parks

The Parks Trust has announced a range of outdoor activities taking place across Milton Keynes parks this spring.

The programme includes guided walks, family sessions, and nature-themed events at locations including Willen Lake, Ouzel Valley Park, and Howe Park Wood. Many of the activities are free, while others require advance booking.

The charity says the events are intended to help residents spend more time outdoors and explore local green spaces.

Photo: The Parks Trust

New events announced at Unity Place

A number of new public events have been announced at Unity Place, the business and leisure destination next to Milton Keynes Central station.

Upcoming listings include talks, social events, workshops, and community activities taking place at the venue over the coming weeks. Organisers say the programme is designed to make the space a regular meeting place for people living and working in the city.

Full details of upcoming events can be found on the Unity Place website.

Photo: Unity Place

For more information please visit Unity Place .co .uk

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MK Digest

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