30 June 2026
Ten spectacular forest picnic spots to visit this summer
Forestry England reveals ten beautiful picnic destinations across the nation's forests
Forestry England is encouraging people to pack a picnic and enjoy the nation's forests this summer after seeing growing interest in picnic locations on its website.
Since 1 May, visits to Forestry England's picnic blogs have increased by 16% compared to the same period last year, as more people seek inspiration for affordable days out in nature.
To help visitors make the most of the summer season, Forestry England has highlighted 10 spectacular forest picnic spots across England, from mountain forests and ancient woodlands to lakeside settings and family-friendly destinations.
With summer days stretching longer and families looking for affordable ways to enjoy the great outdoors, Forestry England is encouraging people to pack a picnic and discover some of the nation's most spectacular forest settings.
From mountain forests in the Lake District to ancient woodlands in the South East, Forestry England cares for some of England's most beautiful places to explore, reconnect with nature and enjoy eating outdoors.
Whether visitors are looking for sweeping views, peaceful woodland clearings, family-friendly facilities or opportunities to spot wildlife, these ten forest destinations offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable summer picnic.
Josephine Lavelle, Forestry England National Marketing and Membership manager says:
We're seeing more people looking for picnic inspiration and planning outdoor days out in the nation's forests this summer. A picnic is one of the simplest ways to spend time together outdoors, and our forests offer some incredible places to relax, explore and connect with nature.
Check out Forestry England’s ten spectacular picnic spots:
1. Forestry England Kielder, Northumberland
With its vast lakeside setting, towering trees and abundant wildlife, Forestry England Kielder is one of England's most impressive picnic destinations. Visitors can enjoy woodland walks, waterside views and the chance to spot ospreys soaring overhead.
2. Forestry England Dalby, North Yorkshire
Set within the North York Moors, Forestry England Dalby offers a remarkable mix of deep woodland, dramatic valleys and far-reaching views. It's the perfect place to spread out a blanket before exploring miles of walking and cycling trails.
3. Forestry England Whinlatter, Cumbria
England's only true mountain forest combines spectacular scenery with panoramic views across the Lake District fells. A picnic here comes with a breathtaking backdrop at every turn.
4. Forestry England Delamere, Cheshire
Easily accessible from major cities across the North West, Forestry England Delamere is a popular escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas nestled among mature woodland before heading out on family-friendly trails.
5. Forestry England Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire
One of the Midlands' most popular forests, Forestry England Sherwood Pines offers something for everyone. Extensive woodland trails, family activities and open spaces make it ideal for a summer day out.
6. Forestry England Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
A favourite for outdoor adventure, Forestry England Cannock Chase combines beautiful woodland scenery with walking trails, cycling routes and plenty of places to stop and enjoy lunch beneath the trees.
7. Forestry England Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Kent
Home to one of the world's finest collections of conifers, Forestry England Bedgebury Pinetum offers visitors the chance to picnic among towering trees from around the globe in a truly unique landscape.
8. Forestry England Alice Holt, Hampshire
With woodland play areas, family activities and scenic trails, Forestry England Alice Holt is packed with opportunities for adventure. It's a fantastic destination for families looking to make a day of their picnic.
9. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Dorset
Lakeside views, accessible trails and one of the South's most popular play trails make Moors Valley a favourite destination for visitors of all ages.
10. Forestry England Fernworthy, Dartmoor
Nestled on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Forestry England Fernworthy offers peace, tranquillity and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a picnic surrounded by woodland before venturing onto the open moor.
Plan your visit
Forestry England is encouraging visitors to enjoy the nation’s forests responsibly this summer by taking any litter home or using designated bins, leaving barbecues and campfires at home, respecting wildlife and fellow visitors, and following local signage and guidance to help keep forests safe and enjoyable for everyone.
To find out more and plan your next forest adventure, visit Forestry England's website.
Ends
Images are available here. Please credit Forestry England/Crown copyright.
Media contact:
Forestry England Press Office | media@forestryengland.uk
Notes to Editor
- Forestry England manages and cares for the nation’s 1,500 woods and forests, with over 326 million visits in 2025/26. We use our scale and expertise to grow and care for the nation’s forests for this generation and the next. We are continuing the work we have already started to make the nation’s forests resilient to climate change and by 2026 we will:
- create at least 6,000 more hectares where we integrate wilding activities in our productive forests.
- increase the diversity of visitors to the nation’s forests and have one million hours of high-quality volunteer time given to the nation’s forests.
- plant at least 2,000 hectares of new, high-quality woodlands.
For more information visit forestryengland.uk. Forestry England is an agency of the Forestry Commission.