The Best Picnic Spots in London

London is a fantastic backdrop for a summer picnic if the weather allows, and each year both locals and visitors alike flock to an wide range of picnic spots around the city. Many of London’s parks welcome groups for picnics, and in this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best picnic spots in England’s capital…

Picnics in the Royal Parks

London’s eight Royal Parks welcome picnics, and a few of them are discussed in this blog. St James’s Park allows the most guests, with a group size of 60 – closely followed by Richmond Park (which allows 40).

Kew Gardens

During your stay at the Park Grand London Lancaster Gate, it would be a shame to miss a visit to Kew Gardens, one of London’s premiere spots for a picnic – as well as home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

A botanical garden located in south-west London, Kew Gardens was founded in 1840, and has become a world-leading centre for conservation and scientific projects. Here you’ll find more than 30,000 species of plant, and can enjoy a look around the attractions after you’ve finished your picnic.

Providing an incredible escape from city life without wandering far from your base in the city, it’s easy to get away from it all while exploring Kew Gardens for a few hours.

Primrose Hill

Once you reach the top of Primrose Hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the city, at one of London’s most popular tourist spots. While a climb might not be to everyone’s taste, if you’re willing to make the trip you’ll see why so many London locals love this space when it’s time for a picnic. The surrounding area is just as appealing for a stroll when you’ve finished your meal. While not the oldest park in London (that honour belongs to Finsbury Circus), Primrose Hill has still gained real and enduring notoriety.

Alexandra Palace Park

With easy access thanks to great public transport links, Alexandra Palace Park is a bustling hive of activity perfect for relaxed picnics. There are 196 acres to explore, which combine woodland, grassland and manicured gardens, as well as a boating lake and golf course. The park was constructed 150 years ago, and there’s a regular selection of events happening throughout the year – sure to impress guests at budget accommodation in London.

Holland Park

This distinctive public park is situated in the affluent Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and has earned its reputation as an upscale space for picnics and enjoying the great outdoors. The surrounding area is noted for its many Victorian-era town-houses and shopping experiences, helping to elevate this petite park into a fun day out.

Furnival Gardens

This riverside park in Hammersmith was first opened to the public in 1951, coinciding with the Festival of Britain. The space was once noted for its active fishing community, though this ended in 1936 after the creek running through the park was filled in. Today, it makes a great space for families seeking a simple picnic area in London.

Victoria Park

Open all year, Victoria Park has 213 acres to offer, and first opened to the public in 1845. The park is popular with visitors and locals, having won a number of prestigious awards for its beauty, and after undergoing an extensive refurbishment, it’s been brought squarely into the 21^st century whilst losing none of its original charm.

Greenwich Park

Offering ample 17^th century green space and great views, this is one of London’s most iconic parks, and with good reason. The history of the park dates back to the Roman era, and there are 183 acres to explore during your picnic. Those eager to extend their day out can head for an Indian afternoon tea in London after a morning of enjoying a stroll through the many orchard, flower and herb gardens in the park.

Green Park

Peaceful and historic, Green Park combines a rich mixture of fountains, statues and memorials with gorgeous green space, as one of London’s Royal Parks. There are just 40 acres of parkland, in contrast to the 2,500 acres offered by London’s largest park (Richmond Park). By heading for Green Park you’re only a short distance from the big city whilst still finding a retreat in the heart of London.

Clapham Common

There are 220 acres of green space at Clapham Common, which became a public park in 1878. It’s a great space for a picnic, with a Victorian-era bandstand and three ponds, as well as surrounding scenery which includes a range of large Victorian mansions.

Brockwell Park

With great views to offer, Brockwell Park is a well-appointed park which also includes Brockwell Lido, an art deco-style swimming pool which is popular with Londoners. The park also contains a bowling green, miniature railway and tennis courts, making it a great option for a relaxed day out and picnic in London.

London Fields

Among Hackney’s most popular parks, London Fields stands out as a key figure for picnics. Barbecues are allowed in some London parks (always check regulations prior to your visit) but have been suspended for 2019. Nonetheless it’s a great place to bring pre-prepared food for a relaxed lunch, before heading to restaurants near Lancaster Gate Tube Station for dinner.

Lincoln’s Inn Fields

First developed in the 1630s, Lincoln’s Inn Fields only became a public park in 1895. It has a netball court and a tennis court, as well as a bandstand. The area is bordered by notable buildings such as Sir John Soane’s Museum and the London School of Economics, ensuring lots to see after you’ve finished your meal.

Battersea Park

Though not one of the Royal Parks, Battersea Park is widely thought to be one of London’s most interesting green spaces, with 200 acres of parkland and the famous Battersea Pagoda providing lots to see during a picnic, as well as providing attractions for kids such as play areas and a zoo. 

Staying in London

Finding the right London accommodation is essential, leaving you free to explore the city. At the Park Grand Lancaster Gate, we offer a wide range of comfortable, modern rooms suited to both business and leisure travellers.