With an abundance of beautiful picnic spots within an hour’s drive of Leeds, there’s no excuse not to enjoy National Picnic Week, this year from 19th to 27th June. Whether you seek a serene riverside, a peaceful meadow, or a family-friendly park, you’ll find the perfect spot for a leisurely outdoor meal with family and friends. So, pack your picnic basket, grab a blanket, jump in your car on a train or bus and find your happy place!
Chevin Forest Park
Just a short drive from LS17, Chevin Forest Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This beautiful woodland park offers miles of walking trails, panoramic views, and plenty of secluded picnic spots. Whether you prefer a peaceful spot in the woods or a scenic overlook with views of the surrounding countryside, you’re sure to find the perfect place to enjoy your picnic. After lunch, explore the park’s many trails, climb to the top of Otley Chevin for panoramic views, or visit the nearby market town of Otley.
30 mins
The Yorkshire Dales National Park
With its rolling hills, peaceful valleys, and pretty rivers, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is packed with fantastic picnic spots, perfect for soaking in the area’s stunning natural beauty. You can spread out your blanket by the River Wharfe in Wharfedale, enjoy the green meadows at Malham Cove, or relax by the shores of Semerwater. Many spots have picnic tables and facilities, making them great for a chilled meal with family and friends.
60 mins
Knaresborough Castle
Knaresborough Castle is a great spot for a picnic, with its cool historic ruins and awesome views of the River Nidd. The grounds are big and well-kept, giving you plenty of grassy spots to lay out a blanket and have a relaxing meal. With the Medieval castle as your backdrop and the charming town of Knaresborough nearby, it’s perfect for families, couples, and friends. Plus, Bebra Gardens is just around the corner, offering shady areas and pretty flowerbeds for a nice walk after your picnic.
35 mins
Valley Gardens, Harrogate
Valley Gardens in Harrogate is a perfect place for a picnic, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, open lawns, and shady spots under big trees. You’ll find colourful flowers, a cute stream, and lovely walkways, making it a great place to chill out and enjoy the outdoors. There’s also a playground, a paddling pool, and a café, so it’s awesome for families. Whether you want a quiet spot to relax or a fun area to hang out with friends and family, Valley Gardens has it all.
30 mins
Pateley Bridge
Spread out and chill by the River Nidd at Pateley Bridge. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, there are also fab places to eat if water isn’t your thing. Try the lush green fields, or one of the nearby parks, for a relaxed and fun picnic day.
60 mins
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is an awesome spot with its beautiful riverside setting and huge parkland. The picturesque Abbey ruins make a cool backdrop, and you can pick from lots of great picnicking spots such as the riverbank, open fields, or shady areas under old trees. There are plenty of walking paths, family-friendly activities, and nearby facilities, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a fun day.
45 mins
Brimham Rocks
With its cool rock formations and amazing views of the Yorkshire Dales, Brimham Rocks is a unique spot to chill out and enjoy some food. Simply spread your blanket out among the rocks and take in the beautiful moorland scenery.
45 mins
