Best Picnic Spots in London

My friends at Expedia.ca sent me on a journey to London as part of their #BigWorldExplorer campaign so I could share some gems with you. This is the second of five posts featuring one of my favourite cities on the planet!

Picnics. One of my absolute favourite summertime activities. Sun on my skin, fresh breeze, grass beneath my feet… The perfect occasion to celebrate the simple things in life: good friends, food and hopefully weather. While London is not known for the latter, the sun DOES shine (in fact, I’ve been there a dozen or so times and have never seen it rain!). Nevertheless, the sunny days are numbered (and usually land in July & August) so I highly recommend taking advantage of the beaut conditions when they arise. And what better way to do that than with an outdoor feast with your faves?! For those who’ve never visited the city, I can assure you that it’s bursting with green space. In fact, you’ll have more difficulty deciding where to picnic than you’d think. But don’t worry, I’m here to help with that. I searched high and low over the years and, in my opinion, these are the best picnic spots in London…

1. Primrose Hill

As one of the six protected viewpoints of London, this is the place to head for spectacular views of the city. The summit is 63 metres above sea level (note: a bit of a trek with picnic baskets in hand), but totally worth the effort. If you’re feeling lazy and don’t want to pack food, swing by Melrose and Morgan nearby and pick up a tray (£15 which serves 2-4 people). We fully took advantage of this option…

2. Victoria Park

There’s definitely something special about picnicking in London’s oldest public park. Commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1840 in response to public demand for a park in East London, this is one of the city’s most important historic parks. Over the years, millions of Londoners have visited its sweeping lawns, lakes and canals (Regent’s and Hertford). The park also hosts tons of festivals and events so if you’re looking for some entertainment, sync up your visit!

3. Old Royal Naval College

Imagine being surrounded by some of the finest classical buildings in Europe. Designed by England’s greatest architects, the world heritage site is not only a feast for the eyes but also happens to be an excellent place to gather with friends for an outdoor feast. Lush lawns, beaut view of the River Thames and vibrant energy make the Old Royal Naval College the perfect spot to picnic! And while you’re there, make sure to check out the Painted Hall and Chapel (free).

4. Hampstead Heath

I love everything about this park. The views (some of the best in the city), the trails, the swimming ponds, the meadows, rich wildlife… I could go on. But it’s the energy that is truly the highlight: Hampstead Heath just radiates a warm, welcoming glow. A place where Londoners go to relax and play (it kind of feels like the English countryside). There’s lots to explore in the 700 + acres of woodland so make sure to go for a walk after your picnic. Oh, and there’s a fruit stand right outside the Tube station so you can grab some goodies before heading into the park…

5. Hyde Park

I make sure to visit this beautiful park every time I’m in London. One of the capital’s eight Royal Parks, it covers 350 acres and has a huge variety of picnic spots to choose from. Once the hunting grounds for royalty, it’s now packed with locals and tourists alike who are looking for an oasis in the city centre. My fave spots? The Rose Garden and Serpentine Lake. Oh, and take a stroll over to Kensington Palace while you’re there – the Sunken Garden is a dream…

A huge thanks to Expedia.ca‘s #BigWorldExplorer program. Would love to know what your favourite picnic spots in London are via comments below! And if you need to do more “research” you can always find amazing flight deals to London here and hotel deals here.