Abstract We present a new test of modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) on galactic scales, based on the escape speed in the solar neighbourhood. This test is independent from other empirical successes of MOND at reproducing the phenomenology of galactic rotation curves. The galactic escape speed in MOND is entirely determined by the baryonic content of the Galaxy and the external field in which it is embedded. We estimate that the external field in which the Milky Way must be embedded to produce the observed local escape speed of ∼550 km s−1 is of the order of a0/100, where a0 is the dividing acceleration scale below which gravity is boosted in MOND. This is compatible with the external gravitational field actually acting on the Milky Way.