Summer has finally arrived, which means it’s time for Pimm’s and picnics. The weekends are meant for getting out of the office and into the sunshine, so why not plan a few days away for a change of scenery? London is buzzing with people making the most of the weather, so now is the perfect time to book a room in one of our London Hotels. Then, stop off at a wholesome food market or local bakery and make your way to a park for a picnic. Here are our favourite London’s picnic spots:
For an escape:
Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park is a world away from the streets of Kensington, which are actually just around the corner. To really build the atmosphere the Japanese garden designers intended, get yourself a bento box for lunch and eat it while admiring the colourful koi carp swimming around.
To be in middle of it all:
Clapham Common is practically invisible under all the sunbathing bodies during the weekend. Don’t expect to find space for a sprawling picnic blanket and chairs, but if you’d rather find people to share your sandwiches with or who’ll invite you for a game of frisbee, this is the place to be. The pubs around the park make great evening watering holes too.
With a big group:
The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill is one of south London’s hidden gems. The free museum houses a fascinating collection of natural history objects, as well as an aquarium and a bunch of interesting musical instruments. But the garden is the place to picnic, with great views, lots of meadow space where dogs can be let off the leash and even picnic tables if a tartan blanket on the grass isn’t your thing. And just in case the weather lets you down, the Dutch Barn is full of seating for picnickers.
For lunch with a view:
Primrose Hill is a classic picnic spot and you’ll find dozens of couples and families sprawled out on the grass. Lay out a blanket and unload your hamper with a view for miles across the whole city. Why not take a kite, make use of the space and let the children run around until they’re tired out and ready for a long night’s sleep?
For a beachy vibe:
The Roundhouse Terrace in Camden is being transformed into a seaside paradise, ready for sun-seekers and picnickers galore. There’ll be 150 tonnes of sand, deck-chairs, ping-pong, and pier amusements. If the sandwiches you pack end up soggy, you can always join in the American style BBQ and get your sugar fix from the candy-floss and ice-cream stands.
For a bit of wildlife:
Richmond Park is the largest of London’s Royal Parks and a National Nature Reserve. Over 600 red and fallow deer live in the grounds, so you can guarantee sightings which will excite the kids. There are over 30 ponds to set up your picnic by and lots of woodland to explore. Don’t leave without visiting the beautiful Isabella Plantation, full of spectacular pink and red flowers.
