Perfect picnic spots in and around East Sussex

Be inspired as you enjoy a picnic surrounded by the garden that influenced much of Virginia Woolf’s writing. Designed by her husband Leonard, this idyllic retreat, encircled by the South Downs, is packed full of summer colour bursting from borders and pots.

Grab a book and settle down for a leisurely picnic in the walled garden of this literary haven. Bring your own tasty treats or pop into the Courtyard Tearoom for something to make your picnic extra-special.

Self-respecting picnickers head straight for the veg plot for the best view in the house. Benches overlook a panorama of Kentish countryside, with rolling hills and fields to boot. There's blankets to borrow and big games for a post-picnic play-off.

The gently sloping grounds around the sandstone castle walls are a picnicking sweet-spot. Bring a rug and stake your claim, whether down by the moat or further up the hill with mouth-watering medieval views.

Escape into the countryside surrounding Rudyard Kipling's family home. Picnicking spots can be found along the banks of the river Dudwell or under English Oaks. In the peace and tranquility, it's easy to imagine fairy tale creatures from Kipling's stories tucking in beside you.

The 780 estate is just made for picnics, scenic walks and mini-adventures. Country paths lead to breathtaking views of the fairy tale ruin. Venture further still to seek out a shady spot in the ancient woodland. With cows gently grazing and birds overhead, it's a slice of picnic paradise.