Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes or MK is Britain's celebrity New Town, which was developed to ease the burgeoning population of London. This ceremonial county town of Buckinghamshire flaunts a display board of the typical British architecture. Milton Keynes was shaped by some of the best known British building and landscape architects. Unlike the many previous New Towns, in Milton Keynes architectural richness was ensured while incorporating the latest developments, which makes it refreshingly unique.

It is the land of the mighty Ichthyosaur that once roamed free around 150 million years back and some of the early human settlements that date back right from the Bronze Age! Archaeologists have excavated early burial sites and timber houses that speak for themselves. The town is a stunning mosaic of Roman and Saxon cultures among others who have left their indelible imprints in this town. There are many architectural gems that adorn the crown of this enchanting town such as the well preserved Keynes library, Roman villas, Iron Age camp, castles and cemeteries, which unveil a rich history.

Milton Keynes is renowned for its shopping facilities and is touted as a shopper’s paradise in this region. Well connected with M1 motorway, rail network and road routes, this town is flocked with avid shoppers to net some cool deals. The shopping facilities par excellence is undeniably one of the most powerful trump cards of Milton Keynes. It is home to one of the longest underground shopping centres in Europe, which spans over half a mile in length and includes around 230 shops – both large and small to cater to the eclectic shopping requirements. There is dime-a –dozen open markets for bargain hunters. Rummage through the endless rows of bric a brac and seal a few hot deals. It’s a golden opportunity to pick up your favourite clothes, CDs or books at a fraction of the shop prices. If you are an antique buff, then do not miss the experience of shopping at any car boot sale at Milton Keynes!

If you thought Milton Keynes is all about shops and shopping, you would be caught on the wrong foot. It has plenty of pretty open parks, which are tailored for walks and sports all through the year. The culture vultures should take a closer look at the Campbell Park, which sets stage to some of the renowned annual cultural festivals in this town. There are many other attractions like Bradwell Abbey, the remnants of the 12th century Benedictine priory, 14th-century chapel with medieval wall paintings and cruck barn among others. Time stands still at the Peace Pagoda, dedicated to the memory of the unknown martyrs of all wars. Set amidst cherry and cedars, it was built by Nipponzan Myohoji.

There are water fun centres with many activities like wave machine or flume rides and Willen Lakeside Park, with sailing, canoeing and windsurfing facilities that are smattered with picnic spots and playgrounds. Just like the town has superb leisure facilities in its fold, the countryside, which is just next door, is equally appealing with an array of outdoor activities and natural spectacles.