Looking for the perfect picnic spot in the North East? From peaceful woodland clearings to scenic spots near the water, the nation's forests offer beautiful places to picnic, relax and explore the great outdoors.
Whether you’re planning a family day out or a quiet escape in nature, discover some of the region’s best shady picnic sites.
1. Wooler Common and Woodland Park, Northumberland
With scenic ponds, mature woodland and open common, Wooler Common and Woodland Park is a picturesque spot for a picnic any time of the year. It's an interesting historical site too, having been raided by marauding Scots between the 14th and 16th centuries.
2. Simonside, Northumberland
This picnic location is known for its rugged beauty and awesome adventures. A 430m climb after lunch will reward you with panoramic views, revealing the whole Northumbrian coastline. This is a skyline that even your imagination can’t match.
3. Hepburn Wood, Northumberland
Work up an appetite by exploring the walking trails of this lesser-known nature spot. Sweeping vistas and tranquil landscapes await you. Try to spot the prehistoric features when you stop to unwrap your sandwiches.
Help keep forests litter-free
Not all forests have public litter bins. Please bring a bag for waste and take home your litter to recycle. Bringing re-useable bottles and containers is also a great way to reduce waste!
4. Hindhope Linn, Northumberland
Don’t go chasing waterfalls, unless they’re located in this outstanding spot at the northern end of Kielder Forest Drive. This is a picnic destination that ticks all the boxes. Views? Check. Valleys? Check. Very likely that you’ll get wet? Check.
5. Holystone Wood, Northumberland
Feeling hungry? Satisfy your cravings for delicious picnic food and tranquil treescapes in the former grounds of a 12th century nunnery. Often a quiet and secluded spot, you may see more wildlife than you do people!
6. Warksburn, Northumberland
This atmospheric picnic spot is overlooked by two famous Totem Poles which have been standing for more than 50 years. Still undecided whether this is the ideal place to stop for lunch? The pre-Roman earthworks and rumoured local gold deposits just might sway you.
7. Kielder Forest, Northumberland
There’s never a dull moment at this popular picnic site. Make a day of it by exploring the nearby maze and lakeside walk. Remember to keep your eyes to the skies, as sightings of Northumberland’s only breeding osprey population are common here.
Help prevent wildfires
You are welcome to hire our barbecues where you can, but to prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any other barbecues or stoves into the forest.
8. Hamsterley Forest, County Durham
This forest is as full to the brim with trees as your belly will be with sandwiches. After you’ve admired the woodlands sprawled along the sides of the sheltered valley, get stuck in to all the amazing activities and trails on offer.
9. Chopwell Wood, Gateshead
Boredom doesn’t exist when there’s 360 hectares of landscape to explore. Pause to take a rest on picnic tables that are scattered throughout this mesmerising mixed woodland. Bring along good food and good company… we’ll take care of the rest.
10. Sneaton Forest, North Yorkshire
Charming and serene. The adjectives to describe the stunning steep valleys lined with conifers and broadleaves are endless. The Falling Foss waterfall and boulder from the 1700s also make for a stunning addition to your picnic backdrop.
11. Guisborough Forest, North Yorkshire
Visit Guisborough for a fun-filled daytrip and delicious picnic. Stepping into this woodland is like stepping off a plane. Sun is not guaranteed, but escapism and relaxation are.
12. Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
Whether you love solo picnic adventures or group lunches, this nature-rich outdoor space will serve you well. From glacial valleys in the south, to upland plateaus in the north, there are memories to be made in this unique landscape of epic proportions.
