Spring has finally sprung, (oh, how we’ve missed you) which means trips to parks, the woods or a drive down the local beach are definitely on the cards for the perfect picnic!
We’ve selected some of our favourite sun-filled spots in the UK for you to enjoy the finest outdoor dining.
“Pignic” – The Proud Archivist Gallery, Haggerston, London
Well, the clue is in the title. If you want to eat lunch surrounded by micro-pigs, then this might be the ideal location for you. Organised by the city guide website, Yelp, this event also aims to raise awareness of the practicalities of owning micro-pigs as pets; some owners in the past have purchased these piglets not realising they can actually grow up to knee-height! Drop your name in a piggy ballot and you might be in with a chance to dine with some of the UK’s cutest little creatures.
Yelp’s London Pignic will take place on Thursday 21st May until Monday 25th May.
Corfe Castle, Dorset
Situated in grounds doused in history, Corfe Castle is an excellent place to sit down for a picnic, as well as fitting in a viewing of the castle itself. Corfe Castle continues to be a family favourite with over a thousand years of history in its walls; it will be both an educational and recreational experience!
Tarbet, Loch Lomond
Situated on the West shore of Loch Lomond, Tarbet is a picturesque village which sits firmly on the West Highland railway, with a pier that provides a popular boarding point for tourists embarking on various pleasure cruises. Along the pier, visitors can also enjoy cycling, climbing, walking or picnicking among the beautiful peaks of the Arrochar Alps.
Fell Foot, Cumbria
In the care of National Trust, Fell Foot Park and Garden is located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. With eighteen acres of land, you’ll surely be able to find some space for a picnic as well as enjoying the scenic views by the lakeside. Once you’ve finished digging into your picnic hampers, hop on a boat and take a trip to The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway or become acquainted with the creatures living in the local lakes and streams at the aquarium.
Bodmin Moor, Cornwall
There are a handful of peaceful places to picnic in Bodmin Moor; Delphi Bridge is a tranquil, secluded spot just outside of St. Breward, where visitors can dip their toes into the cool and clear water in the summer months. Alternatively, you can climb Bodmin Beacon, where you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Cornish countryside whilst tucking into your cheese and pickle.
Swansea Bike Path, Swansea
Squeeze your picnic hamper into the baskets on your bike and ride through the glorious settings of Swansea Bay which boast stunning views right across to the coast of Mumbles. Grab a sun-drenched spot along the way for an open-air lunch and soak up the sunshine and the atmosphere.
Somerset House, Strand, London
In the warmer months, London’s Somerset House hosts fantastic outdoor screenings of films old and new, where you can even dig into a picnic before the film. Picture this: leisurely sipping a (plastic) glass of rosé whilst a vintage showing of Grease plays in the background in front of a sunset backdrop; an idyllic setting to say the least!
Wollaton Hall and Park, Wollaton, Nottingham
Officially in the park’s “high season”, many can enjoy lunch outdoors to absorb the grounds and lakes which offer plenty of opportunities for a wander. If you’re especially quiet, you might even be lucky enough to spot some local deer. Afterwards, why not take a stroll around the late Elizabethan mansion in the park and explore the museum inside which holds various galleries (bird, insect, mineral, Africa), the Tudor kitchens, the regency dining room, regency salon, and prospect room.
Top Withens, Haworth, Yorkshire
Rumour has it these grounds were connected to Emily Bronte’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights, and if that isn’t enough to persuade you, perhaps a walk around the moorlands will (it wouldn’t be one of Britain’s Great Literary walks if it wasn’t worthwhile!)
Devils Dyke, East Sussex
Devil’s Dyke is a deep V-shaped valley on the South Downs, which, legend tells us, was dug out by the devil to drown parishioners of the Weald. But, don’t let that put you off, as the valley offers remarkable views, sometimes spanning as far as the Isle of Wight. For those of you who’ll want to burn off those scotch eggs on a post-picnic walk, a beautiful array of flowers will guide your route, as well as exotic insects and ruins of a rather mysterious Victorian funfair. Plenty of discoveries to be made!
If you’re planning to dine al fresco soon, our family picnic hamper provides all the essentials you’ll need: stainless steel cutlery, plates, wine glasses, a knife, and cutting board! Food will be the only thing you’ll have to worry about (and not even seasoning as there’s salt and pepper shakers in there too!)
Family Picnic Set
For more info on any other picnic supplies, click here: http://www.mountainwarehouse.com/camping/eating-outdoors/picnic-sets/
