Olney

Olney

General Information
Name	Olney
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	Town
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	51.153°N 0.702°W
Map
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Olney is a market town and civil parish in the Borough of Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, England. It is located near the borders with Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, and is around 52 miles north of London.

History

Olney is known for its historical significance and its annual Pancake Race, which dates back to 1445. The town has a rich history, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The Church of St Peter and St Paul is a notable landmark in the town.

Economy

The economy of Olney is primarily based on retail, tourism, and agriculture. The town hosts a weekly market and has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants that attract visitors from surrounding areas.

Education

Olney has several educational institutions, including Olney Infant Academy and Olney Middle School. These schools provide primary education to the children of the town and surrounding areas.

Culture

Olney is famous for its cultural events, particularly the annual Pancake Race, which is held on Shrove Tuesday. The race is a unique tradition where participants run a course while flipping pancakes in a frying pan.

Transport

Olney is well-connected by road, with the A509 providing access to nearby towns and cities. Public transport services include buses that connect Olney to Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Northampton.

Notable People

• John Newton, a former slave trader who became a prominent abolitionist and hymn writer, lived in Olney. He is best known for writing the hymn "Amazing Grace."
• William Cowper, a renowned poet, also resided in Olney and collaborated with John Newton on the "Olney Hymns."

See Also

• List of towns in Buckinghamshire
• History of Buckinghamshire

External Links

• Olney Town Council