The Barge

You'll find this sprawling canalside boozer tucked away in Woolstone, where the Grand Union Canal suddenly makes this corner of Milton Keynes feel almost picturesque. The waterfront terrace is the main draw here – grab a pint and watch narrowboats chug past while pretending you're somewhere properly rural rather than five minutes from the shopping centre. The food's solid Vintage Inns fare without any surprises, but their Sunday roasts are genuinely decent and the portions won't leave you hungry. Inside feels a bit chain-pub generic, but when the weather's decent, that canal-facing beer garden transforms this place into somewhere you'd actually choose to spend an afternoon. It's particularly good for families – kids can watch the boats while adults can sink a few proper pints.