The Ultimate Picnic Spots in the UK

There is no better way to enjoy a summer day than a family picnic, and the UK is known for its natural beauty and tranquillity. We have listed what we believe are the ultimate picnic spots in the UK. You will find beautiful beaches, wide open countryside, fragrant gardens, woodland creatures, palaces and stately homes, many with a touch of history.

Beautiful Beaches

Barafundle Beach, Pembrokeshire. Ranked among the best beaches in the world, due in part to the clean and quiet ambiance, this beach has sand dunes, rock pools for exploration, and a steady drop to the sea.

Rhossili Bay , Rhossili, Wales. Recognized in 2013 as one of the world’s best beaches in the Traveler’s Choice Beach Awards, this golden sand beach is perfect for picnicking.

Brownsea Island, Dorset. Located at Poole in Dorset, on the south coast of England are five islands, the largest of which is Brownsea Island. The birthplace of scouting, it is a beautiful nature reserve with scouting exhibitions kids will love. They will enjoy taking the Smuggler's Trail to the treasure chest. Have your picnic at one of the picnic spots along the cliff-top walk.

The Open Country

Wellington Country Park, Berkshire. With 240 acres of Hampshire countryside, Wellington Country Park has a miniature railway, adventure playground, giant snakes and ladders, play trail, and crazy golf for the kids. The whole family will enjoy the beautiful nature trails and lakeside walks. BBQ and camping areas are available in addition to picnic areas.

Avon Valley Country Park, Bristol. Start your day with activities designed to work up an appetite. There is an adventure park for the children with a mile long junior assault course. When they are finished, take the riverside walking trails and find the perfect picnic spot. The 50-acre park adjoins the beautiful and peaceful River Avon.

Palaces and Stately Homes

Ragley Hall, Warwickshire. With 400 acres of grounds, the beautiful Ragley Hall has been home to the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford for nearly 350 years. You will have no trouble finding a perfect place for your picnic, perhaps in the picnic area by the lake. In addition, there is a Kid’s Zone with a trampoline, climbing frames, and a 3D maze. Set within 400 acres of playground, plan to spend the day, as there is much to see and do.

Somerset House, London. You do not need to leave London for a picnic with your family. Somerset House, an 18th century neoclassical palace has a large courtyard perfect for a relaxing picnic. Your younger children will love the fountains, and you and your teens can look around the spectacular exhibits and collections inside the palace.

History and Literature

Avebury Stone Circle, Wiltshire. For an unusual picnic, try the middle of a the largest stone circle in Europe, 4,000 years old Avebury Stone circle, which encompasses part of the village of Avebury. Before your picnic, visit the museum in the Barn Gallery with its interactive and audio-visual displays that bring you the story of the stones and the people who uncovered their past.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex. The inspiration for A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories, this peaceful forest in the south-east of England has acres of open heath-land areas surrounded by dense woods. Have your picnic at one of the tables set in a sheltered glade in the middle of the forest.

Hiking and Other Outdoor Activities

Clywedog Valley and Trail, Wrexham. Dotted with picnic spots, the Clywedog Valley and Trail is 7-miles long. Visit the Minera Lead Mine with its engine house and small museum. You children will enjoy the replica of a mole tunnel – with worms even – and the children’s play area.

Beecraigs Country Park, West Lothian. Beecraigs Country Park provides ideal picnic spots in over 913 acres. Outdoor activities include archery, skiing, kayaking, and canoeing. Your children will enjoy the fishery and deer farm. If you wish, you can camp and stay a few days.

Lakes and Rivers

Fell Foot Park, Windermere. Fell Foot Park is one of the best picnic areas in the Lake District. You will enjoy the calm waters of Lake Windermere, where you can rent a small rowing boat.

Loch an Eilein, Rothiemurchus, Scotland. Literally translated “lake of the island,” Loch an Eilein is a perfect picnic spot. Thick green woods surround a crystal clear lake. There are also the ruins of an old castle, a perfect location for a relaxing picnic.

Kelmscott Manor, Kelmscott. This small village in West Oxfordshire perfectly captures English country living. South of the house – Kelmscott Manor – are the winding waters of the Thames. This is a perfect picnic location on a hot summer day.

Plants and Animals

Sewerby Hall Gardens, Sewerby. Set on the grounds of an early 18th century manor house, you will find meticulously maintained gardens. It is easy to find a secluded picnic spot on the 60 acres, and your family can wander and roam after eating.

Beecraigs Country Park, Linlithgow, Scotland. You will find hiking, archery, fishing, and kayaking in this beautiful park. As you wander the grounds, you may see some red deer. Your family will enjoy a picnic after hiking and playing.

Tower Hill Tea Gardens, Whitstable. A quaint seaside garden that sits opposite Whitstable Castle, this is an especially enjoyable picnic spot in the summer. The view is of Whitstable Bay and its small fishing boats.

You are sure to find the perfect picnic spot for your entire family, no matter what their interests or the level of activity they enjoy. Visit more than one for family fun!