Sunshine on a shoestring: the best places for a picnic across the UK

The sun has got his hat on, hip-hip-hip hooray. Time to shake the moths out of your picnic blanket and eat al fresco. A picnic is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy the great British summer – no pricey entry tickets, no dress code and no pressure to buy an overpriced ice cream (unless you want to).

Whether you’re a fan of windswept clifftops, peaceful parks or lakeside lounging, we’ve rounded up the best picnic spots across the UK - and thrown in a few tips to help keep your picnic budget-friendly too.

South East

1. Box Hill, Surrey

With stunning views across the Surrey Hills, this National Trust spot offers miles of walking trails and perfect picnic pitches.

2. Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, East Sussex

A peaceful coastal gem with scenic walking routes and wildlife galore.

South West

1. Dyrham Park, Gloucestershire

This National Trust estate has rolling hills, shady trees and a deer park.

2. Fistral Beach, Newquay

Combine your picnic with a paddle or surf session at one of the UK’s most iconic beaches.

Midlands

1. Bradgate Park, Leicestershire

Ruins, roaming deer and riverside paths make this an ideal picnic location.

2. Cannock Chase, Staffordshire

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for forest picnics and bike rides.

Yorkshire

1. Roundhay Park, Leeds

One of the biggest urban parks in Europe, with lakes, gardens and loads of space for a picnic.

2. Malham Cove, North Yorkshire

Dramatic limestone scenery and waterfall walks await your sandwich stop.

North East

1. Saltwell Park, Gateshead 

A family-friendly park with gardens, a maze and boating lake.

2. Druridge Bay, Northumberland

A quieter alternative to the big-name beaches, with dunes and sweeping sands.

North West

1. Tatton Park, Cheshire

A scenic estate with woodlands and lakes that’s ideal for lazy afternoons.

2. Fell Foot Park, Lake District

Picnic by the shores of Windermere with views of the fells all around.

Scotland

1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

There are dozens of picnic-friendly spots dotted around the loch.

2. Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh

A green oasis in the heart of the city with views of Edinburgh Castle.

Wales

1. Bute Park, Cardiff

Central, scenic and right next to the River Taff.

2. Gower Peninsula, Swansea

Rhossili Bay is breathtaking and perfect for seaside sandwiches.

Northern Ireland

1. Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down

Forest trails, a beautiful lake and picnic tables make this a firm favourite.

2. Mussenden Temple, County Londonderry

Dramatic cliffside views and historic ruins - don't forget your selfie stick!

Tips to keep your picnic cheap and cheerful

✔ Plan your portions – Overbuying leads to food waste and extra cost. Make a list and stick to it.
✔ Ditch single-use – Reusable cutlery, containers and water bottles save money in the long run.
✔ DIY snacks – Instead of pricey shop-bought options, make your own pasta salad, wraps or muffins at home.
✔ Look for deals – Supermarkets often have picnic-friendly meal deals. Bulk buy crisps or fruit to save.
✔ Take tap water – Bottled water can be expensive. Fill a reusable bottle before you leave.