About Olney
Olney is a fantastic Georgian market town situated on the bank of the River Great Ouse, about 8 miles from the centre of Milton Keynes, and about 10 miles from Bedford, Wellingborough and Northampton. It sits within the civil parish of Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire (though in fact also sits on the boarders of both Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire).
Olney is a residential town and a destination shopping, dining and well-being centre, with over 100 independent shops, restaurants and other services available.
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There is also some fascinating history to Olney, home of the hymn Amazing Grace and the birthplace of the world famous Pancake Race! Much of our wonderful history can be found in our very own Cowper & Newton Museum.
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Olney also has a monthly Farmers Market on the first Sunday of the month, and a weekly general Market every Thursday.
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Come and visit this beautiful Georgian town with a wide selection of specialist shops, services, pubs, restaurants, and hotels.
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All of our car parks are free to park, the postcode of the main car park is MK46 4BA.
"Variety's the very spice of life,
that gives it all its flavour."
William Cowper
Olney's History
Olney is a quaint and picturesque town nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, England. Its origins can be traced back to the Roman, when it was a bustling center of trade and commerce. Over the centuries, Olney has played a significant role in the agricultural, lace-making, and brewing industries, contributing to the town's growth and prosperity. Today, Olney is a vibrant and thriving community that takes pride in its rich cultural heritage. The town is renowned for its annual pancake race, a tradition that dates back over 500 years, and for the birthplace of the famous hymn "Amazing Grace," which was penned by one of its former residents.
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William Cowper and John Newton were both notable individuals who lived during the 18th century. Cowper was a celebrated poet, letter writer and hymnodist, known for his literary contributions to the era. Newton, on the other hand, , was an active participant in the African slave trade who went on to become the curate at the parish church of St Peter & St Paul, Olney, and later
an Abolitionist. Despite their different backgrounds, the two men formed a close bond and collaborated on a collection of hymns that included the timeless classic "Amazing Grace." Their friendship and creative partnership not only left a lasting mark on the world of literature and music, but also served as a testament to the power of human connection and the potential for personal growth and transformation.
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Situated on Market Place in the centre of Olney, you will find The Cowper & Newton Museum. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of William Cowper and John Newton, and is housed in three buildings that date back to the 18th century, one of which was Cowper's former residence. The museum's collection comprises a variety of artifacts and exhibits that provide visitors with an insight into the fascinating lives of these two influential figures, including their personal belongings, manuscripts, and other items of historical significance.