Perfect picnic spots in and around East Sussex

A view over the countryside to Bodiam Castle

Gently sloping lawns in the grounds of a medieval castle. Open countryside with a sprinkling of fairy tale magic

Places to visit

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Deer at the front of Knole

Places in the South East where you need to book 

Some of our places we care for in the South East of England will be opening with guided tours, so you’ll need to pre-book before your visit. These tours will be led by expert volunteers and will show the places in a new light. You may also need to book in advance at some other larger places, where visitor numbers need to be carefully managed for practical reasons.

See which places in the South East you need to pre-book

Gourmet gardens and grounds

Sit awhile and enjoy the view with your picnic on the vegetable garden at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Sissinghurst Castle Garden 

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.

A view across the moat to Bodiam Castle with summer flags on the bridge

Bodiam Castle 

The gently sloping grounds around the medieval 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 breath taking views across the Sussex countryside.

Countryside cuisine

The rose garden and pond at Bateman’s, East Sussex

Bateman's 

Escape into the countryside surrounding Rudyard Kipling's family home. Picnicking spots can be found under the rows of pleached limes on the lawn or under English Oaks. In the peace and tranquillity, it's easy to imagine fairy tale creatures from Kipling's stories hiding in the undergrowth.

View of Scotney Castle from the estate

Scotney Castle 

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.