National Picnic Day 2023: Top 10 Picnic Locations Around The UK

Sunny days were made for great picnics

We’re now a month into spring and it’s officially the start of picnic season! In the UK, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding somewhere gorgeous to eat outdoors. Beautiful landscapes are part of our national identity. From heading to the seaside (just mind the seagulls), to taking the chance to explore the wilderness in search of somewhere off the beaten path – all we need to look for is a picnic area sign.

Still need some inspiration? Don’t worry, Park HQ has put together a list of picnic areas throughout the UK. No matter what we’re looking for, there’s a picnic area to suit. Picnics are the perfect excuse for a romantic day out, or to encourage the kids to enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s a few great places where you can escape with your sandwiches and cakes…

Blue skies and good food

From abandoned factories of the Victorian era, all the way to ancient deer parks – here’s some of the UK’s top picnic areas.

• Cartgate Picnic Area - TA14 6RA.

This back-to-nature wooded picnic area near Somerset has an on-site toilet block, (only open during the daytime). It’s also near a service station, so it’s a great spot for those who’ve decided to have a picnic on the fly! The National Highway Authority maintain this picnic area, so it’s kept nice and clean. There’s also a small number of parking spaces.

• Anderwood Picnic Area - BH24 4HS.

Looked after by Forestry England, Anderwood picnic area is nestled deep in the woodland of the New Forest. Those enjoying a picnic in the space can look forward to seeing local wildlife – just don’t give them any of your lunch. Please note, no fires or barbecues are allowed on site. There’s also a nearby path for those fancying a walk after their food.

• Broken Scar Picnic Area - DL3 8TF

Located near Darlington, Broken Scar picnic area is a great location for dog owners – just be mindful of keeping them on leads as there are farmyard animals in nearby fields. There’s also a play area for children right next to the picnic site.

• Chew Valley Lake Picnic Area - BS40 8TF.

If you are looking for somewhere remote, then Chew Valley Lake picnic area – not far from Bristol – is ideal. As the site overlooks a lake, we can see all different types of wildfowl in the water. One of the biggest draws of Chew Valley Lake is its tea shop, which has both indoor and outdoor seating areas overlooking the lake.

• Linnhe Picnic Area - PH33 6SJ.

Found in the heart of the West Highlands in Scotland, Linnhe picnic area is right by the loch from which the site takes its name. It’s quite a long drive to get to Linnhe from most places, but the photogenic beauty of the rugged landscape makes the trip worthwhile. There’s no fencing separating the picnic area from the loch, so please make sure everyone is aware of how hazardous deep open water can be and stays safe.

• Malton Picnic Area - DH7 0TH.

This picnic area is found on a former colliery site in Durham, which has now been reclaimed by nature. All different types of wildlife dwell in the remaining shale. There’s also a number of walking trails, so it’s definitely worth putting on a pair of hiking boots to explore this peaceful remnant of the Industrial Revolution.

• Fish Hill Picnic Area - WR12 7LD.

The name of this picnic area in Worcestershire is actually deceiving, as there’s no water, let alone fish, to be seen from the hilltop site. It’s home to an abandoned quarry and there’s a half-mile woodland walk nearby. Those willing to climb the hill will be treated to sights including blooms of wildflowers, ancient slabs of limestone and Beech woodland.

• Porth Wen Brickworks - LL68 9LH.

If we’re looking to channel our inner Bear Grylls, Porth Wen Brickworks site is located at the bottom of a steep path – found within Anglesey’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales. There’s lots of abandoned buildings to explore around this coastal picnic area.

• Belfast’s Botanic Gardens - BT7 1LP.

Occupying 28-acres, this public park near Queens University is an integral part of Belfast’s Victorian identity. Established in 1828, the site is home to many different types of exotic flora – most of which comes from the southern hemisphere. It’s also a venue for the likes of concerts, festivals, and other experiences.

• Dunham Massey - WA14 4SJ.

Known for its medieval deer park, Dunham Massey also features a 17^th-century house and an extensive collection of historical artefacts. There’s also the Rose Garden, the blooms of which change on a seasonal basis.

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