Howe Park Wood

Howe Park Wood is a 21.4-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest in Tattenhoe, a district of Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire. Owned by Milton Keynes City Council and managed by Milton Keynes Parks Trust, the site is a semi-natural woodland first recorded in the 13th century. Ancient large oak trees suggest it may have been a medieval deer park. The wood sits on poorly drained clay soil, causing seasonal waterlogging in some areas while others remain drier. Loughton Brook runs along its boundary, adding to the site’s ecological diversity. The wood supports a wide variety of trees and shrubs, with nearly three hundred species of moths recorded. Among its butterflies is the nationally rare black hairstreak, making it an important habitat for rare species. Its historical layers and ecological richness reflect centuries of change in land use and conservation. The site’s management aims to preserve its natural and historical significance for future generations. Visitors find a landscape shaped by both nature and history. Paths wind through areas of dense woodland and open glades, offering quiet walks amid ancient oaks. The brook along the edge provides a natural boundary and a habitat for wildlife. The contrast between wetter and drier zones creates varied conditions for plants and insects. The wood stands as a reminder of Milton Keynes’ green heritage within an urban setting.