Summer has finally arrived and what better way to enjoy a day out with family and friends, than packing a picnic and heading to an idyllic spot to eat it!

With miles of fabulous scenic countryside, dramatic coastlines, historic parks and royal hunting forests, the National Trust has a great selection of venues to escape for the day and enjoy the perfect picnic.

Here are some of the hot spots to check out this summer:

Sheringham Park, Norfolk

With space to roam for all the family, come and explore this wonderful park on the North Norfolk Coast. Find yourself a quiet spot to lay out the picnic rug and tuck into your delicious summer delights, as you enjoy the spectacular views of both coast and countryside.

• If you want us to take the stress out of organising the day, why not pick up a children’s lunch box (£3.50) or adults picnic bag (from £4.50) from our refreshment kiosk, available everyday throughout the local school summer holidays, made using local and seasonal food.

Sutton Hoo, Suffolk

A perfect place to explore in the summer months, find yourself a quiet spot at Sutton Hoo. The picnic area is situated behind the main exhibition building, amongst the trees. From here catch glimpses of the River Deben and Woodbridge in the valley below. Just a stones throw from the children’s adventure playground; enjoy the space and tranquillity that this National Trust property has to offer and enjoy a walk round the burial mounds or a visit to the exhibition hall to finish off your day.

• The restaurant at Sutton Hoo is a great stop off point for both hot and cold food, refreshments and anything else you may have forgotten to bring. Open daily from 10.30am.

Houghton Mill, Cambridgeshire

Picnic in the shadows of Houghton Mill, an imposing 18th-century watermill that is one of Cambridgeshire’s hidden gems. Alternatively, enjoy a sunnier spot on the grass banks of the river, where you may be lucky enough to see a heron or kingfisher. With great views of what is now the last working watermill on the Great Ouse, listen to the gentle flow of the river pass you by and look out across the water meadows to the landscape beyond.

• Don’t worry if your picnic basket is missing something, the tearooms are open from 11am to 5pm, Saturdays to Wednesdays. Once you have had your fill, why not meander your way along the river and enjoy one of the many circular walks at this property.