Perfect picnic spots at Scotney Castle

The picture perfect view

If you don't want to wander too far from the house, you can't go wrong with this spot. The classic view of Scotney Castle is the perfect accompaniment for any picnic. This was the view that determined the location of the house, the true representation of the picturesque style, looking down on the ruined castle.

You can't miss this spot as you reach the top of the garden from either entrance. It may not be the most peaceful spot, but it's one of the iconic views of Scotney.

The Castle Island

If sitting amongst the ruins is more your thing then this is the perfect location for you. There are plenty of benches to sit and enjoy a sandwich or roll out your picnic rug on the lawn at the back of the Castle and enjoy the views across the moat. Beware of the swans and ducks in this location, you may need to hold on tight to your sandwiches!

Estate view

If views of the parkland are what you are looking for then this bench is the one for you. There's plenty of space to sit and enjoy the view with your picnic. This one is great if you don't want to walk too far into the gardens as it's just a short walk from the house. As you enter the garden, take the path straight ahead rather than walk acoss the terrace and follow it down towards the Old Castle. The bench is on your right before you reach the Quarry Garden.

The Walled Garden

Our walled garden measures exactly one acre internally. At this time of year, it's full of colour from the cut flower beds and leafy vegetables are soaking up the sunshine before being harvested. This is a quieter space and perfect for sitting on a bench watching the world go by or the volunteers hard at work tending the crops. Plus you can always top up your picnic with some of the fresh produce on sale within the walled garden.

The Queen Mother's Lawn

Nestled in the heart of the garden, this space is perfect for rolling out a picnic blanket and settling in for the day. Shade is created by the beautiful tulip tree, making it the ideal spot in the heat of the day. This is our closest recommendation to Badger and Pepper's play area, so it should be a hit with all the family.

The Orchard

If you joined us over February half term to help plant new trees in the orchard, why not come back and enjoy your picnic here? The ranger team have added some picnic benches so you can enjoy the view across the wider estate from this new, peaceful area. The orchard is short walk back up the drive on the left hand side.

Top up your picnics

If your picnic feels a bit drab, then you can always call into the tea-room, shop, kiosk or Edwy's tuck shop to add a few tasty treats or well-earnt hot drinks. 

The tea-room has a selection of freshly-made sandwiches (and salads in the summer months), plus savoury bakes, cheese scones and kids lunchbox items. There's also crisps, cake bars, sponges and fruit scones - all of which can be taken away with you along with a hot drink of your choice. If you bring your own re-usable cup, even better!

On busy days, the kiosk by the house and Edwy's tuck shop down at the Old Castle will be open for you to quickly pick up something without having to go to the tea-room. Most importantly, ice creams are available from all our locations and this year we're excited to be offering Jude's ice creams, either in scoops or cones. The flavours really are quite delicious; ask what flavours are on sale today!

Last but not least, the shop sells bottled water, chocolate, biscuits, small bagged sweets and cookies too. So whatever you need to top up your picnic or sustain you through the day, we've got it covered.