Perfect picnic spots

Whether you’re catching up with friends or spending time with family, there’s no simpler joy than sharing a picnic in the great outdoors. From sunlit hill-tops to shady riverbanks we’ve got plenty of tips to help you find the perfect location, not to mention delicious recipes and even a few ideas to make your picnic more sustainable.

Throwing a picnic together and venturing into the great outdoors is a great option for a spontaneous day out – whether you’re visiting one of the places that we care for, or even just heading to your local park.

Both adults and little ones can benefit from spending a bit of time out in nature, whether you’re taking a moment to listen to the birdsong, or letting the kids burn off some energy with a run-around. With the promise of a tasty picnic, you’ll have no problem getting the whole family out to explore.

Find a picnic spot near you

Picnic spots in the South West

When it comes to picnic spots, you’re spoilt for choice in the South West. Will you go for the endless sandy swathe of Studland Beach in Dorset, or the shady woodlands of Lydford Gorge in Devon?

Picnic spots in the South East

You'll find lots of perfect picnic spots in the South East. Why not follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen’s Emma, who picnicked at Box Hill, or set up on top of Devil’s Dyke for glorious views of the South Downs?

Group of adults enjoy a picnic in a wooded area

Picnic spots in the Midlands

Whether it's a family day out or a romantic date, it’s hard to beat a picnic on a sunny day. There are plenty of places to lay out the blanket in the Midlands, from the riverbank at Ilam Park, to the wild moors of Longshaw.

Picnic spots in the East of England

Whether you're seeking peace and quiet or want somewhere where the family can let off steam, there are some great picnic spots in the East of England. Gather friends and family, pack a hamper and enjoy a leisurely day in the great outdoors.

Picnic spots in Wales

Coast, countryside or even the grounds of a castle – which is the spot for you? Wherever you choose, a picnic is a great way to spend time outside soaking up the sun and breathing in the fresh air - so don’t forget the blanket.

View to the Mourne Mountains from Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down, Northern Ireland

Picnic spots in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland offers an abundance of great places to picnic. From charming coastal spots, to magical woodlands; intimate walled gardens and rolling countryside, there's no shortage of places to unpack your hamper and enjoy the view.

Views along Hadrian's Wall towards Housesteads Fort

Picnic spots in the North East

Whether you’re wandering along the Northumberland coastline or rambling through the rugged countryside beside Hadrian’s Wall, here are some of the best places for an al-fresco lunch.

Picnic spots in Yorkshire

Find the perfect place to enjoy a picnic this summer. Whether you're looking for a spot on the beach, somewhere with a hill-top view, some woodland shade or a wide open lawn to relax, you're spoilt for choice in Yorkshire.

Family walking near Wray Castle on the west shore of Windermere, Cumbria.

Picnic spots in the North West

A walk and a picnic is a classic combination for a summer’s day. Why not round up family and friends and take them for a stroll around Lake Windermere, or along the sandy beaches at Formby near Liverpool?

Parent and child playing Pooh Sticks on a bridge at Bodnant Garden — Bridges a-plenty for Pooh Sticks at Bodnant Garden

Activities for mini explorers

Picnicking with young adventurers? Why not let them explore the wild world around them by trying some of the ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities? From going barefoot and feeling the grass under their feet, to playing pooh sticks or getting to know a tree throughout the changing seasons – there are plenty of ways to get them out and into nature.

Go wild with 50 things

Tasty picnic treats

Chicken and pork picnic pie recipe from the National Trust Cookbook.

Pork and chicken picnic pie

A light summer take on the traditional hand-raised pie. A richly-flavoured, chicken and pork picnic pie, wrapped in a crisp pastry crust.

Pea and mint scotch eggs

Light and tasty, these pea and mint scotch eggs are a vegetarian twist on an old favourite. The perfect partner to a summer salad.

Chocolate brownies

A classic picnic treat, learn how to make delicious chocolate brownies with this recipe from the National Trust Cookbook.

Tips for a sustainable picnic

One of the main perks of a picnic is getting to spend time in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for ways to help take care of the world around you, then why not try our four tips for a more sustainable picnic?

Two gardeners harvesting produce in a kitchen garden

Family cycling through Leigh Woods, Bristol

Reuse, reduce

Reuseable cutlery and containers reduce waste, and work out cheaper over time. Take a look below for some sustainable picnic essentials available in our shops.

Think local and seasonal

Reduce your food miles by eating fruit and veg that’s in season, rather than imported from another country. For extra points you could try growing your own.

On your bike

Add to the adventure by walking or cycling to your picnic spot. A bit of exercise will help work up an appetite, and you’ll cut down on car emissions too.

Leave no trace

If you end up with some waste after your picnic, make sure to take it away with you. Don’t leave leftovers for local wildlife, as it may not be good for them.

Picnic essentials

Bamboo utensils

Designed with an eco-friendly material, these Bamboo plates and cutlery sets are the perfect addition to any picnic set. They’re even dishwasher safe, so they’ll be ready for your next alfresco dining experience.

Waterproof random rug

Made in the UK from reused wool, each of these random rugs is unique in its colours. The waterproof backing will protect you from damp grass, so you can even have a picnic between rain showers.

Reuseable food wraps

Made from organic cotton and sustainably harvested beeswax, these waxed food wraps are perfect for transporting sandwiches and other snack foods like sausage rolls. They can be re-used again and again too – just wash with soap and cold water and hang to dry.