Latest features Picnic in the city

Date Published:

11/07/2008

You don't have to be deep in the countryside to enjoy the pleasures of a summer picnic. Here's 4Food's pick of the best city sites in which to enjoy an urban summer spread

Primrose Hill, London:

It's quite a trek up the hill but you'll be rewarded for your effort. Most of London’s major landmarks will be in view while you polish off your picnic and you might even bump into a celeb or two after dessert. There's an array of tempting delis in the area selling tasty takeout food but homemade sarnies will work just as well. How to get there.
In the hamper: Keep up with the local fashion set with these delicious lemon and rosemary cupcakes.

Clifton Observatory near Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol:

Britain's most impressive bridge is a real draw for those wanting something different in Bristol. And by making the effort to find a spot near the observatory, you're only improving the view. If you’re not driving or rushing back to the office why not wash your meal down with a glass of the local cider? How to get there.
In the hamper: Take advantage of the local apples with these speedy apple tarts, all washed down with a drop of scrumpy.

Sarnies on the South Bank

South Bank, London:

This location is busy and vibrant. There isn't an overwhelming amount of greenery around but you’d be hard pushed to find a more interesting riverside picnic spot anywhere in the world. Try perching outside the Royal Festival Hall after the sun goes down for a romantic after-dark feast. You might be next to the Thames but the jellied eels are optional. How to get there.
In the hamper: Make your outdoor repast romantic with these white chocolate dipped strawberries lovingly fed to your beau in front of the setting sun. Or, alternatively, scoff the lot with your mates. They are delicious.

Roundhay Park, Leeds:

A welcome break from the pace of city life, yet only ten minutes from Leeds' bustling centre. Roundhay Park offers fresh air, open space, and the feel of the countryside. If you're feeling in the mood for an adventure after you've finished your food, why not pay a visit to Tropical World, which boasts the UK's largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew Gardens. How to get there.
In the hamper: Leeds is renowned for its Asian-inspired cuisine so why not inject some spice into your picnic spread with these Indian scones with onion chutney.

Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh:

Few cities can boast greenery as dynamic as Edinburgh's Holyrood Park. Here you'll find Arthur's Seat, the park's tallest and most famous peak. It's a pretty easy climb, and the panoramic views of the city will make your picnic one to remember. Why not go native and make a haggis sarnie since you're in the area? How to get there.
In the hamper: There's not much the Scottish don't know about a good side of salmon. Perk up your picnic with this delicious smoked salmon picnic loaf.

Lunch by the lock

Camden Lock, London:

You don't necessarily need to bring the picnic hamper when visiting Camden Lock. There’s a seemingly endless array of shops and stalls offering starters, mains and desserts from around the world. You should be prepared to share your space with an interesting mix of trendy teenage Goths and ageing punks, but on a sunny day the barge-packed canal can almost make you forget you’re in London. How to get there.
In the hamper: Combine great British flavour with a bit of exotic flare with these tasty stilton quesadillas.

Peace Gardens, Sheffield:

Don't be fooled by the name, the setting is not quite tranquil. But it is a great place to watch the world go by, especially if the sun is shining and the impressive fountains are in operation. In summer they do tend to attract those in need of cooling down, so admire from afar to avoid wet sandwiches. If the weather is less kind to you, make sure you check out the near-by Winter Gardens filled with tropical plant life. How to get there.
In the hamper: Celebrate the taste of Yorkshire with these pork and Stilton sausage rolls.

Brighton Beach, Brighton:

It's great to get stuck in to the picnic hamper while staring out to sea, and the thing that makes Brighton the best place to do it is its pebbly beach; you won't be picking sand out of your sandwiches before tucking in. If you're lucky enough to be in this part of the world in September, make sure you check out the 2008 Brighton and Hove Food and Drink Festival. How to get there.
In the hamper: Everyone needs ice cream down on the beach but these low fat raspberry sorbet cornets will mean you still look great in your bikini.

Glorious garden grub

Botanical Gardens, Birmingham:

Picnic goers have been enjoying the country-feel of Birmingham's Botanical Gardens for over 170 years, so it's a safe bet you'll enjoy your time there. And in a city not particularly noted for its greenery it makes finding an escape from the concrete even more enjoyable. After lunch why not explore the extensive gardens or visit the glasshouse and gallery? How to get there.
In the hamper: Make your picnic an al fresco afternoon tea with these mini Victoria sponge cakes.

Coopers Field, Cardiff:

Right in the centre of Cardiff, Coopers Field offers the Welsh picnic party plenty of urban greenery. It's a hive of activity in the summer, as it plays host to a range of large events, including Cardiff's Mardi Gras and the Metro Weekender. It's also conveniently located if you fancy a stroll around Cardiff’s impressive castle to walk off your lunch. How to get there.
In the hamper: Keep your picnic Welsh with these delicious spiced griddle scones. Perfect for picnic pudding.

Find more perfect picnic recipes in our recipe search.

Back to top