We ask that all visitors follow the on site guidance below to ensure everyone can have a fun, memorable and safe time at Willen Lake.
BBQs, Picnics & Gatherings
Unfortunately, in recent years, our team and the local Fire Brigade have had to deal with fires that resulted from discarded or uncontrolled BBQs. BBQs and gas stoves are not permitted at Willen Lake because they pose a risk to the safety of visitors and can cause damage to our beautiful surroundings.
Visitors are still welcome to bring picnics and enjoy small gatherings (under 20 people) but we can’t accommodate gazebos, tents or marquees. For bigger gatherings (20-plus people), it’s important that you plan ahead and our team can help with that. Please complete the enquiry form here to get the ball rolling.
Alcohol
We want to keep Willen Lake safe and friendly for all visitors, especially the large numbers of families we welcome year-round. In the past, alcohol drinking has generated around half of the waste left behind by visitors and caused increases in anti-social behaviour. A Public Spaces Protection Order is in place at Willen Lake which means alcohol is not permitted to be consumed on site. The only exception is within licenced areas or premises, where you can consume alcohol that has been purchased there. Visitors who don’t comply with this rule could face a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecution resulting in a maximum fine of £500. Fines are re-invested by Milton Keynes Council in Community Safety Projects. For more details, visit Milton Keynes Council website.
Litter
We provide many bins around Willen Lake but if they're full, please take litter home for disposal or, where possible, recycle.
Dogs
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Willen Lake however, we do have some restrictions including the need for dogs to be kept on leads in busy areas. Please view our Doggy Dos and Don'ts for more information.
Respect For Others
Everyone is welcome to enjoy Willen Lake, including lots of families with young children. Please be kind and respectful towards our team members and other park users during your visit. Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.
Protect the wildlife and environment
We are located in beautiful parkland which is home to lots of wildlife including swans, ducks, frogs, fish, bees, butterflies and many more. We take our responsibility to protect their home seriously. Please play your part when you visit Willen Lake. In particular, we ask that you do not feed bread to the birds as it’s harmful to them and the lake water. If you decide to feed waterfowl, please use good quality bird seed, tinned sweetcorn or chopped lettuce and vegetables. These foods better replicate their natural diet and do not impact the natural environment.
If you see injured wildlife, report this to one of our team or call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. Remember injured animals can be frightened so may scratch or bite - we recommend you keep your distance. Animals that have unfortunately died can be reported to enquiries@willenlake.org.uk and our team will deal with it as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Find visitor information including what facilities are available at the lake and how to get here.
