This is another one of my favourite dog walks in Milton Keynes because not only is the ever-changing landscape gorgeous, it is also another safe one if you have dogs who are slightly unreliable off lead – as my little Grizzle is.
I usually park near The Galleon in Wolverton and wander along the canal till I reach the slightly wonky stairs to enter Ouse Valley. I go this route because I love to browse all the ‘bric a brac’ in G Dads Collectables after my walk. When I was last there I picked up a gorgeous little antique desk for my new office and sampled a rather large slice of their home made carrot cake – it was lush! I highly recommend popping in next time you’re down that way, you won’t be disappointed.
However, if you’re watching your waistline and have no desire to shop then there is actually a fair bit more parking space in the area at Ouse Valley Park (it is on your left as you travel from Old Wolverton towards Haversham); it’s free too, bonus!
The circular walk is flanked by River Ouse on one side and the Gravel Pits on the other. As you follow the path around you will not only find plenty of areas to stop for a drink and bite to eat but also get a chance to nosy at some of the adorable little plots within the Cosgrove caravan site.
Time Your Walk:
Circular walk, option one; Car park > Manor Farm > Iron Trunk Aqueduct = 1.3 miles, 45 minutes
Circular walk, option two; Iron Trunk Aqueduct > River Ouse > car park = 1.3 miles, 35 minutes
Total circular walk = 2.6 miles, approximately 1 hour 10 min
Cosgrove extended walk option; Iron Trunk Aqueduct > Cosgrove > Iron Trunk Aqueduct = 1.5 miles, 40 minutes.
Total circular walk PLUS Cosgrove extension = 4.1 miles, approximately 2 hours
With or without livestock in the fields this is truly an amazing place to go for a wander with your dog. The views are simply stunning, and although the River Ouse floods from time to time so long as you come prepared with wellies and the understanding that you may get wet, you will have a fabulous time. I’ll be back next weekend!
Walk Time Credits: The Parks Trust
