7 picture perfect picnic spots in the South

Picnic table surrounded by trees

Picnic spots in the South of England

There’s no better pairing than eating delicious lunch rolls surrounded by rolling hills and towering trees. Here are the perfect picnic spots in the South of England to do exactly that this summer.

Cycling trails at Moors Valley

1. Moors Valley, nr Ringwood

Fancy a spot of lunch in peaceful surroundings? Rest up lakeside or walk to the lookout point to admire sweeping vistas that stretch out for over 800 acres. All ages and abilities are catered for in this cherished setting. Let the little ones blow off some steam after lunch on the fantastic play trail and popular play areas.

2. Alice Holt, Farnham

Under the heat of the sun, or the shade of the clouds, there’s joy to be found in this fabulous outdoor area. What can you expect? A day trip full of discovery and delight with enough activities to keep the whole family happy… alongside the picnic food of course.

Four picnic tables in the forest
Havant Thicket glade in autumn, with bench and trees

3. Havant Thicket, Forest of Bere

Let your to do list melt away as you set up a picnic spot at Havant Thicket. Your only worry will be whether you packed cheese and pickle or coleslaw sarnies. The variety of young and old trees means there's plenty of wildlife to spot too.

New to our forests? Leave no trace of your visit and follow the Forest Code.

4. West Walk, Wickham

Travel back in time to enjoy finger food in the largest remaining fragment of the ancient Forest of Bere. Tranquil walks under tall pine trees await you! Reach out to touch the bark and feel the powerful secrets that this historic woodland holds.

Pine tree forest
Firestone

5. Firestone Copse, Isle of Wight

The rich woodland of Firestone Copse makes it a lovely spot for a picnic lunch. And with a range of paths across the site, there's plenty to explore once the sandwiches are gone.

6. Bolderwood, nr Lyndhurst

Located on an old coaching route, historic Bolderwood has many large, veteran trees to admire whilst you picnic in the shade. With ancient links to the Crown, this woodland is a great place to explore. 

A walking trail at Bolderwood in The New Forest
Mother and baby having lunch at picnic table

7. Stoke Park Wood, Eastleigh

Great views and serene walks are guaranteed in this quaint mix of ancient woodland and newly planted trees. Stay hydrated under the sun and rally the family round for a summer picnic extravaganza. Jam or cream first on the scones? We’ll let you debate that one.

Explore all of these forests and more with Forestry England national membership

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