5 Stunning Picnic Spots in London This Summer
To celebrate International Picnic Day, we’re asking the age old question - what goes in the ultimate basket? Whether you’re a fruit salad lover, a sandwich fiend, or all about the colourful salads, we’re setting the scene with 5 of the best outdoor picnic spots. From glorious gardens to stunning riversides and canals, park your behind on a classic checked blanket, freestyle your choice of food and pop a refreshing bottle of bubbly this summer - it’s (hopefully) going to be a scorcher...
1. Wimbledon and Putney Commons
Wimbledon may be known for its sporty tennis scene, but it’s also home to one of London’s most picturesque picnic spots. Covering a whopping 1,140 acres of countryside, Wimbledon and Putney Commons has no shortage of space and nature to tickle the senses. Get together with some friends, pop your blanket down and soak in the beautiful sights and peaceful sounds.
Location: Windmill Rd, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 5NR
2. Horniman Gardens
Aching for a well-deserved break? Located in the heart of Dulwich, Horniman Gardens is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This calming retreat is home to 16 acres of beautiful flora and fauna, no doubt making it a popular spot to enjoy a sandwich, salad, and bottle of crisp white wine with your inner circle of loved ones. If you’re looking for some sweet views? Settle down in the South Down Meadows, offering wonderful sights of Kent and the South Downs, of course.
Location: Road 100, London Rd, London SE23 3PQ
3. Marble Hill Park
If you’re looking for stunning riverside and historical views, look no further than Marble Hill Park, a charming and spacious garden set against an 18th century Palladian villa. In its heyday, the house was a fashionable destination for poets and romantics alike - Alexander Pope, for instance. Since then, it's made a name for itself as a one-stop picnic spot to set down your blanket and hamper, indulge in a treat and a tipple (or two) and transport back in time. If you’re enchanted by the infamous villa’s history, free entry tickets are bookable online!
Location: Richmond Rd, Twickenham TW1 2NL
4. Lincoln Inn Fields
Situated in the heart of Holborn, Lincoln Inn Fields is a large, public square dating back to the 14th century. Alongside its rich historical background, the space also boasts four different gardens - each one as picturesque as the next - making it perfect for an impromptu lunchtime picnic with colleagues, or a social get-together with friends. If you’re feeling sporty? Challenge them to a game of tennis on the central court for a little fun competition.
Location: Lincoln Inn Fields, Holborn, Camden, London, WC2A 3ED
5. GoBoat
Picture this: you’re sailing with a sense of leisurely freedom (you are your own captain, after all), whilst drinking in London’s iconic riversides and canals. Introducing GoBoat's fun venture, offering a boating meets picnicking experience. Here you can swap the grass verges for a rented vessel, bring your own picnic blanket and a selection of your finest home-made (or shop bought) snacks for a feast with sweeping views. Oh, and did we mention that it’s dog friendly? Welcome aboard.
Location: Merchant Sq., London W2 1AS
Looking to explore more of the city’s luscious green spaces? Then you might want to check out our Top Picnic Spots to see the best of the best.
Feast until your heart's content…. or indulge in a tipple at London’s Special Beer Gardens for more open air get-togethers.
For the best things to do in London:
Discover more about the city!
Whether it's enjoying London's Royal Parks or discovering a lovely city farm, head over to our Nature & Animals category for a taste of the great outdoors.