Cranfield is set in the countryside right between the city of Milton Keynes and the rural town of Bedford.

On campus you will find plenty of open spaces to relax, rejuvenate and simply enjoy. The open spaces are great for taking a break or for use as an alternative study area during summer.

Around campus

The summer biodiversity walks for students and staff on Cranfield campus, offer an educational way to get in touch with nature and help to raise awareness of the local flora and wildlife. These walks usually take place on selected Wednesdays from 13:00 -13:45. For more information, contact Becky Shepherd.

The public footpaths around Cranfield are a great way to get out and about and if you like to take a planned route, sketch maps can be picked up from the Cranfield Community Centre.

Milton Keynes

A few miles away is Milton Keynes, known as the ‘city in the country’. Here you will find 5,000 acres of beautiful parkland, rivers and woodlands to explore. At the opposite end you will find rural Bedford.

Some of the most popular places to visit include:

is a peaceful park surrounded by a lake with a collection of activities to get  involved in such as water sports, high rope courses and mini golf, or simply relax with a picnic or enjoy a BBQ.

is Milton Keynes’ very own central park. Many of the major and free events in Milton Keynes such as the World Picnic, Filipino Festival and the MK Play Day are hosted here. Visit the website to find the event timetable.

, one of Milton Keynes’ most ancient parks, and Howe park wood offer a tranquil woodland walk where interesting insects and wild flowers reside.

Just beyond Milton Keynes is , a picturesque National Trust park offering lakeside walks, guided tours and 18th century buildings to discover as you journey around the park.

Alongside the parkland, dedicated path and cycleways across the city mean you can discover and enjoy some of the stunning scenery Milton Keynes has to offer on foot or on a bike safely – ideal if taking children on an adventure.

For more information on places to see, visit the

Bedford

At the opposite end you will find Bedford’s Embankment and Mill meadows and the River Great Ouse, collectively referred to as the ‘Jewel in Bedford’s Crown’ for its peaceful and stunning nature.

The Priory Country Park is a sanctuary for people and wildlife alike with habitats from meadows to reedbeds. It has been awarded Green Flag status, emphasising the parks high quality and good maintenance.

For more information on Bedford’s green spaces, visit the .