Concrete Cows

Location

About

If you happen to be in Milton Keynes, a new town in Buckinghamshire, England, you might come across an unusual sight: a herd of concrete cows grazing peacefully in a field. This might sound like a strange sight, but it is actually a sculpture that has become a well-known landmark of the town.

The Concrete Cows sculpture was created in 1978 by artist Liz Leyh as part of an art project commissioned by the Milton Keynes Development Corporation. The project aimed to bring art to the new town, which was still in its early stages of development. The idea for the sculpture came from a local farmer who had a herd of cows and was proud of his cows, which he would paint and decorate for agricultural shows.

The Concrete Cows are life-sized sculptures made of reinforced concrete, with a steel frame to support them. They are painted black and white to resemble a Holstein Friesian breed of dairy cows. The sculptures were originally created in three pieces - the head, body, and legs - and then assembled on-site.

The sculpture was initially met with controversy and criticism from some locals, who felt that it was a waste of public funds and that it was not a meaningful piece of art. However, over time, the Concrete Cows have become a beloved part of the town's identity and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors often stop to take pictures with the cows, and the sculptures have even inspired souvenirs such as postcards and keychains.

If you're visiting Milton Keynes, a trip to see the Concrete Cows is a must-do activity. The sculptures are located in a field in the south of the town, close to the busy A5 road. You can easily reach the site by car, bicycle or on foot. There are also several bus routes that pass nearby.

The field where the cows are located is called Bancroft Park, which is a beautiful green space with walking trails and a playground. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the scenery before coming across the cows. As you approach the sculptures, you might be surprised at how realistic they look, despite being made of concrete. You can get up close to the cows and touch them, but be careful not to climb on them as they are delicate sculptures.

If you're feeling peckish after your visit to the cows, you can head to the nearby Concrete Cow Brewery, which takes its name from the famous sculptures. The brewery serves a range of craft beers, ciders and snacks, and you can even take a brewery tour if you're interested in learning more about the beer-making process.

In conclusion, the Concrete Cows sculpture is a unique and quirky attraction that is well worth a visit if you're in Milton Keynes. It might not be a traditional piece of art, but it has become an important part of the town's heritage and a symbol of its identity. So, go ahead and take a selfie with a concrete cow - you won't regret it!

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Located in the town of Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire, England, the Concrete Cows are a famous tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. These unique sculptures, created by Canadian artist Liz Leyh in 1978, depict three life-size cows and are made entirely of concrete. While the Concrete Cows are certainly a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area, there are plenty of other great places to visit and things to do nearby.

One of the best things about visiting the Concrete Cows is that they are located in a beautiful park called Bancroft Park, which offers plenty of green space and scenic views. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, have a picnic on the grass, or simply relax and enjoy the fresh air. The park also features a playground and a skatepark, making it a great destination for families with children.

Just a short walk from the Concrete Cows and Bancroft Park is the Milton Keynes Museum, which is another must-visit attraction in the area. This fascinating museum tells the story of the town's history, from its origins as a small market town to its transformation into a bustling modern city. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and displays, including a working blacksmith's forge, a Victorian schoolroom, and a 1940s living room.

For those who are interested in shopping, the nearby intu Milton Keynes shopping center is a great destination. This large indoor mall features a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a great destination for a day out with friends or family. From high-end designer stores to budget-friendly shops, there is something for everyone at intu Milton Keynes.

Another great attraction in the area is Bletchley Park, which is located just a short drive from the Concrete Cows. This historic site was once the top-secret home of the British codebreakers during World War II, and it played a crucial role in the Allied victory. Today, visitors can explore the museum and learn about the fascinating history of this important site.

For those who love the great outdoors, the nearby Willen Lake is a must-visit destination. This large lake offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, as well as scenic walking and cycling paths. There is also a variety of wildlife to spot in the area, including ducks, swans, and other water birds.

In conclusion, while the Concrete Cows are certainly a fascinating and unique attraction, there are plenty of other great places to visit and things to do in the area. From scenic parks and museums to shopping centers and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in and around Milton Keynes. So why not plan a visit today and see all that this vibrant and exciting destination has to offer?