Perfect picnic spots in Northern Ireland

Admire the classical architecture of the mansion house as you roll out a picnic rug on the beautiful front lawn. Alternatively, take a stroll along the shore, relax by the quayside with a picnic and see if you can spot any wildlife on Strangford Lough.

Wander the waterside at Castle Ward passing a ruined castle and ornamental lake. With woodland and follies, this eye-catching stroll will take you around one of Ireland's finest demesnes or country estates.

Summer and the seaside go hand in hand. Tread the boardwalk at Murlough National Nature Reserve and discover the simple pleasures of summer. Meander through the ancient dunes before emerging onto the sandy Blue Flag beach with its crystal clear waters. Pack a picnic along with your bucket and spade.

With the majestic Mourne Mountains as a backdrop, walk through the National Nature Reserve which is home to 22 species of butterfly including the Marsh Fritillary of European importance. Follow this self-guided trail to uncover the history, biology and conservation of this special place.

Pack a picnic and fuel an adventure around the estate. Lounge on the lawn and wander around the lake. If you're lucky you may spot one of the red squirrels foraging for food as you feast on your own picnic.

Feed the swans and ducks on the lake, visit Tir N’an Òg and spot the white stag on the Lake Trail. Venture on to the famous gardens which are particularly spectacular during summer when the beds come alive with scent and colour.

The iconic World Heritage Site offers plenty of unique picnic opportunities. Unwrap a picnic with a view on the lesser-explored coastal path or make the most of the Grab and Go cafe in the Visitor Experience. Book online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover the Giant's Causeway with our Blue Trail - a direct route of under a mile, leading directly to the world-famous stones.

The panoramic views from Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne can inspire an impromptu picnic. Grab a takeaway treat from Al's Coffee Bar or pack a hamper to fuel an adventure in search of the small lake hidden in the valley.

With its sheltered gardens and cliff-top walks, hug the headland on a walk around Downhill Demesne. Enjoy the shade of the Black Glen, fly a kite on the headland and take a photograph at the famous Mussenden Temple inspired by the Tivoli Temple of Vesta.

Relax with a summer picnic by the shady banks of the River Blackwater in the heart of the Orchard County. Let little legs run wild in the adventure playground, have a go at the balance bikes and pause time by the sun dial in the Rose Garden.

Leaving the house and gardens behind, follow the River Blackwater around the estate and cross the industrial age-Bond’s Bridge. Will you be lucky enough to spot kingfishers darting across the water?

With miles of trails across its gardens parkland and surrounding forest, an adventure at Florence Court works up an appetite. Take a stroll to find the mother of all Irish Yew trees, admire the view from the thatched summer house or hire bikes from the Visitor Centre to go further in the forest.

A gentle, even gradient walk through native Irish woodland with historical estate features along the way, including the Florence Court Yew Tree.

Set in the tranquil landscape of Upper Lough Erne, Crom is one of Ireland’s most important conservation areas and also one of its prettiest picnic spots. Unroll your rug at the edge of the lapping lough and soak up the view from one of the picnic tables.

Take a walk on the wild side at Crom. Wander through this important nature reserve with a tranquil landscape of islands, woodland and historic ruins.

The meadows which line the Lagan at Minnowburn provide an idyllic picnic spot on the southern edge of Belfast city. A haven in the heart of the city, watch family squabbles fade as the peaceful riverbank and woodland surroundings relax mind and body. Make the most of the forest bathing beds to engage with nature.

Terrace Hill is home to a pond buzzing with wildlife, a walled garden and dotted with wooden sculptures.