Though the weather in the UK may be a little unpredictable, to say the least, here in the capital we really know how to make the most of it on those rare occasions that the sun is shining. And what better way to spend a summer's day than with a basket full of treats and a drink or two in a pretty park, garden or riverside spot? If, like us, that sounds like your dream day out, then read on to discover the best places for a picnic in London.
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Holland Park
Looking for a tranquil location to dig into an alfresco meal in? Then you'll love Holland Park, situated in the elegant borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Head to the Kyoto Garden for mesmerising waterfalls, elegant sculptures, Japanese maple trees and koi carp swimming through the ponds, with peacocks often strutting around too. There's lots more grassy plots to kick back on as well, with leafy walkways covered by trees to provide a little shade in the hotter months.
Step into the magic of Kyoto Gardens at Holland Park.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is a go-to for many Londoners throughout the year, thanks to its public swimming ponds and incredible views of the city's skyline. But during the summer months this North London favourite really comes into its own, and you'll find it packed with picnic-goers anytime the sun is shining. Luckily though, there's plenty of room for everyone - whether you're heading up Parliament Hill to soak in the sights or looking for a quieter area in the surrounding fields. The park is open all day long too, so if you fancy an alfresco evening meal then this is definitely the place.
The shady trees on Hampstead heath are perfect for covered picnic areas in London.
Greenwich Park
Been searching for 'riverside picnic spots near me' lately? If you're after somewhere with plenty of room to relax without being in earshot of five different conversations, then Greenwich Park should be your next lunch stop. If your legs can brave the walk up the hill then the views will definitely pay off, and you can stroll around the iconic observatory while you're up there as well. There's also the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime museum and the banks of Thames to explore here too. And if you've not had time to prepare a picnic, then head down to Greenwich Market to find all kinds of handmade treats.
Greenwich is a must for riverside picnic spots in London.
Kew Gardens
Though you do need to splash out on entry (with prices ranging from £10 to £24 depending on the time of year), Kew Gardens is worth every penny. Only 30 minutes from Central London by train, this gorgeous destination is chock-full of floral picnic patches and wooden benches surrounded by woodland. There are a number of cafes and restaurants offering takeaway eats if you don't fancy packing your own, and if you bring a reusable cup you'll often get a discount, as they've banned single-use plastic here. And after your meal? Be sure to check out the Temperate House to discover all kinds of rare plants.
This plant-filled space is home to some of the best romantic picnic spots near London.
Primrose Hill
For a picnic with a view on the borders of Central London, Primrose Hill is a top choice. Head as high as you like to see more and more of the city, and there are plenty of trees to shade under as well. Check out the historic Camden Market or one of the nearby restaurants for brilliant takeaway fare, and after you've had your fill there's lots to explore nearby - from Regents Canal to London Zoo. As this pretty spot is located on the northern side of Regent's park, there's plenty more greenery surrounding it too.
Head to Camden market first for a ready-made picnic in London.
Clapham Common
Venturing south of the river? Accessible from Clapham Common or Clapham South tube stations, Clapham Common is a vast green area nestled among the pretty residential neighbourhoods of SW12. This huge stretch is littered with ponds and sizeable trees providing shade in the summer, with copious amounts of space for picnics between the footpaths. The edges of the park are lined with cute cafes and restaurants if you fancy grabbing a coffee alongside your lunch, and you're guaranteed to catch plenty of cute dogs roaming around.
South West residents flock to Clapham Common on sunny days.
Brockwell Park
Work up an appetite for your lunch by swimming a few laps in the lido, before settling down with a basket of goodies in Brockwell Park. This Green Heritage Site is gorgeous all over, so whether you're relaxing on a bench surrounded by flowers or lounging on the grass you're in for a good time. There's also the Grade II-listed Brockwell Hall to explore - a Georgian country house dating back to 1811. Keep a close eye on your sandwiches though, as there are lots of ducks roaming around here.
With lots of different areas to choose from, Brockwell Park is one of the best free places to have a picnic in London.
Alexandra Palace Park
Though most people associate Ally Pally with going to gigs, Alexandra Palace Park is also a great destination for lounging with a picnic on sunny days. Take a seat in front of the iconic landmark for views of the city's skyline, stretching from St Paul's Cathedral to Canary Wharf, or roam across the seven acres of parkland surrounding it for a more peaceful meal. There's a serene boating lake and all kinds of plants to be found, and if you're lucky enough then you might even catch the regular street food vendors and farmer's markets that pop up here.
Alexandra Palace strikes the balance between buzzing concerts and peaceful picnics.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
Just a minute's walk from the vibrant area of Holborn, Lincoln's Inn Fields is the perfect escape from the bustling city. You'll find the green space filled with Londoners chilling on the grass or wooden benches, and there's also a bandstand to perch on for a little shelter. This is the largest public square in the capital so you won't be short of places to plot up, and it's ideal for a peaceful lunch break from the office as well.
For a picnic in Central, you can't go wrong with Lincoln's Inn Fields.
Furnival Gardens
One of the very best places to picnic in London has got to be Furnival Gardens, nestled along the banks of the Thames in Hammersmith. This is the former site of Hammersmith Creek - a popular fishing spot until 200 years ago.
That's not all the history there is to this place though, as parts of the area were also destroyed during the Second World War. Today, you'll find a low walled garden, lots of space to lay down your blanket and cracking views of the river and beyond while you eat.
Look out over the river banks at Furnival Gardens.
Richmond Park
Whether you're shading under ancient trees or chilling out on a bench by Peg's Pond, Richmond Park provides ample space for alfresco lunching. There are over 650 deer roaming the fields here, so be sure to find them before heading to your picnic spot. If you venture up King Henry's Mound then you'll get to enjoy skyline views of London, or check out the Isabella Plantation's colourful azaleas and pretty ponds. What's more, there are plenty of brilliant restaurants nearby if you fancy sourcing your picnic from a local venue.
You won't find a much more colourful picnic plot than at Richmond Park.
After somewhere more secluded? Then check out our guide to the city's best secret gardens, and sign up to our newsletter for all the latest.
