Whether you’re catching up with friends or spending time with family, there’s no better pastime than sharing a picnic in the great outdoors. And what better excuse to explore the beautiful British countryside?
From sun-kissed summits to fragrant garden parks, we’ve rounded up our favourite scenic spots where you can enjoy the delights of spring – along with a sandwich or two!
England
North
Peasholm Park, Scarborough
An unexpected gem on the North Yorkshire coast. At the heart of this oriental-themed oasis lies a beautiful lake, surrounded by established rare trees and even a colourful pagoda. From streams and waterfalls, to mini bridges and mystical gardens, there are plenty of interesting corners to explore once you’ve finished tucking into your sandwiches.
Should you fancy a row, a paddle or a pedal, you can hire a boat, canoe or pedalo. Or, for a more leisurely experience, take a seat on the swan-shaped motorboat as it glides along the lake. Best of all, the park is situated just a 16-minute walk from the bustling town centre.
North East
Wallington, Northumberland
For a picnic with a view, bring your bicycle to this National Trust estate and peddle your way to the lovely lawns to set out a picnic blanket to enjoy a sunny day out. This setting boasts some fantastic views across Northumberland as you tuck into your treats, before whizzing down through the woodland to the Dragon Kiosk for a scoop or two of ice-cream. If you’re seeking a more private spot to relax in, a little hideaway can be found at the end of the estate’s walled garden which overlooks a pond.
North West
Beacon Fell Country Park, Lancashire
With 271 acres of woodland, moorland and farmland, you’ll never find yourself short of space at Beacon Fell. For a post-picnic stroll, follow the woodland sculpture trail where you’ll encounter a black tiger and a walking snake. For real wildlife, hares and rabbits can be spotted and ponds attract dragonflies and damselflies, especially in the height of summer.
Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive roe deer, weasels and stoats, which often clamber over the drystone walls. If you have a head for heights, make your way to the summit of Beacon Fell and enjoy spectacular views of the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay. On a clear day, it’s even possible to see the Isle of Man.
Midlands
Padley Gorge, Peak District
With gently flowing streams, tumbling waterfalls and deep-rooted trees, Padley Gorge is an enchanting spot where one can feel a little closer to nature. Situated on the Longshaw Estate, this fairytale-like gorge is home to many species of scientific interest, including rare birds which dwell in the vast woodland and grassy plains.
When you’re not admiring the flora and fauna, there are plenty of clearings and flat leafy areas for laying down your picnic blanket. On a hot day, a shallow stream is the perfect spot for dipping your toes in the cooling water, while the surrounding air filled is with the gentle chirps of nesting pied flycatchers, which start arriving at this time of year from Africa.
East
Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Set in North Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s easy to see why this spot is so loved by the locals. Sweeping golden sands are accessed through shady pinewoods and backed by a row of colourful beach huts on stilts – the perfect picture postcard.
It’s a great spot if you’re visiting with the family, with acres of space for kite-flying and sandcastles, or simply kick off your shoes, feel the sand between your toes and enjoy a paddle in the shallows. Not only is the scenery delightful, but Wells is also part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales, making it a hotspot for birdwatching – don’t forget the binoculars!
South
Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire
As the highest point in the East of England, Dunstable Downs, managed by the National Trust, rewards its visitors with spectacular views across the Vale of Aylesbury and along the Chiltern Ridge.
At this time of year, the chalky grasslands here begin to come alive with flora and fauna, including rare species of orchid and butterflies. As well as wildlife lovers, the vast open spaces also attract kite flyers and colourful gliders can be spotted soaring overhead – a real treat to watch from a picnic blanket.
South West
Restormel Castle, Cornwall
Standing in ruins amid beautiful countryside, Restormel is one of the most memorable castles in Britain. The present circular structure, built in the late 13th Century, commands fantastic views across the valley of the River Fowey and is a favourite picnic spot – with beautiful spring flowers and plants all year round.
Enjoy a walk around the inside of the keep, where you can imagine castle life bustling below you centuries ago. Climb the stone staircase from the courtyard and you’ll be rewarded with some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Scotland
Lodge Grounds, North Berwick
Situated in North Berwick, Lodge Grounds offers a fun day out for young and old alike – thanks to its wide- open spaces, natural fauna and children’s play area.
Wander around the early Victorian park with its mature trees, lavender garden and wild gardens, and soak up fantastic views of North Berwick Law and the Bass Rock.
For a peaceful stroll, spend some time in the lower park’s formal garden with an aviary, home to interesting tropical birds.
Otter Pool, Galloway Forest Park
Situated in the heart of the forest, halfway along the picturesque Raiders’ Road Forest Drive, this secluded riverside location provides an idyllic picnic spot far away from any hustle or bustle.
On a warm day, the grassy banks offer a great vantage point for a spot of people watching, as visitors roll up their trousers and cross the stones in the babbling waters of the River Dee.
Watch out for red and roe deer grazing among the trees, crossbills and siskins feeding on conifer seeds, and keep an eye on the skies for buzzards, sparrowhawks and red kites while you sit back and relax.
Northern Ireland
Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down
With golden dunes, green woodland and purple heathland overlooked by the scenic rounded peaks of the Mourne Mountain, Murlough offers a truly beautiful setting for a special day out. Here, you can set yourself up on a picnic bench, or make use of a barbecue area. A visit to Murlough can be as serene or as adventurous as you like.
There’s a network of paths and boardwalks guiding visitors through the varied habitats where you can discover an array of butterflies and wildflowers, as well as access to one of the finest beaches in Co Down, which goes on for miles.
Wales
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Set in a stunning location overlooking Snowdonia’s Carneddau mountains, this 80-acre site is much more than just a garden. From Italianate terraces to meadows and woods, it boasts more than 250 years of horticultural history.
Thanks to its large and varied landscape, there are plenty of different areas to picnic. Lay out a blanket in the sunshine of the Old Park fragrant meadow, seat yourself on rustic log tables and chairs and seek some shade in the woods, or head for the designated picnic area beside the lake, surrounded by some fantastic foliage.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
Featuring swathes of golden sand and sparkling blue waters, it might come as no surprise that Barafundle has been voted as one of the best beaches in Britain – and the world. In fact, it’s so pristine and untouched that it could easily be mistaken for somewhere in the Caribbean.
Nestled between cliffs, this small bay is backed by dunes and pine trees and can only be accessed by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park – with a few steep bits here and there. But should you be up for the challenge, you can rest assured that your efforts will be rewarded once you arrive. Well sheltered from the wind, you can comfortably bask in the sun to your heart’s content.