Summary of London’s Best Picnic Spots
London is home to some glorious green spaces including leafy squares, urban gardens, and eight royal parks. Moreover, when the sun shines, there’s no better place to eat than alfresco. This guide covers where to find London’s best picnic spots and provides tips on where to shop for quality ingredients to prepare your own outdoor feast.
1. Regent’s Park
Where to picnic: There are plenty of snacking spots in Regent’s Park, a 410-acre former hunting ground of Henry VIII. Enjoy the scenery by the boating lake, pick a fragrant spot by Queen Mary’s Gardens, home to 30,000 roses, or find a secluded area by St John’s Lodge, which has a small public garden accessed via a hidden gate.
Where to shop for food: Head to nearby Marylebone High Street to pick up artisan cheese from La Fromagerie, Scotch eggs from the Ginger Pig, and pastries from Patisserie Des Reves. If you’re picnicking on a Sunday, the Marylebone Farmer’s Market is perfect for fresh juices and baked goods.
2. Primrose Hill
Where to picnic: On the north side of Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill offers stunning views of the London skyline from its summit, which is more than 60 meters above sea level. Enjoy the local celebrity sightings while picnicking against the backdrop of iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, the Shard, and the BT Tower.
Where to shop for food: If heading from Camden/Chalk Farm, visit Shepherd Foods for fresh produce and deli items. This family-run grocery store stocks all essential picnic items like bread, cheese, meats, and even American snacks. Alternatively, grab cold dishes from Camden Market or budget-friendly options at Morrisons Supermarket.
3. Hyde Park
Where to picnic: Hyde Park is one of London’s busiest parks, bordered by Mayfair, Knightsbridge, and Notting Hill. On sunny days, you’ll find crowds engaged in varied summertime activities, from inline skating to swimming in the Serpentine Lido. Although it covers 350 acres, you can still find a quiet spot among the vibrant atmosphere.
Where to shop for food: Your food choices depend on your entry point. Gourmet treats are available at Harrods food hall in Knightsbridge, while Whole Foods in Kensington provides all essentials. The Bathurst Deli in Bayswater is ideal for sandwiches and platters.
4. St James’s Park
Where to picnic: St James’s Park is small yet perfectly formed. Nestled between Buckingham Palace and the Horse Guards Parade, this regal garden features a lovely lake where pelicans roam freely. You can throw down a blanket on either side of the lake or rent a deck chair for relaxation.
Where to shop for food: For luxury, consider Dukes Hotel, which can arrange a butler service to deliver a champagne picnic basket. Alternatively, assemble your meal from Sourced Market, which offers a variety of seasonal foods from independent producers.
5. Greenwich Park
Where to picnic: Start your picnic with a scenic stroll up to the top of Greenwich Park for stunning views of the London skyline. From the Royal Observatory, gaze over Canary Wharf and the iconic O2. After soaking in the vistas, find a grassy spot to spread your blanket.
On your descent, explore the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College, which are part of the Greenwich Maritime World Heritage Site. For a quieter atmosphere, the eastern Rose Garden is ideal, especially in June and July when the blooms are at their peak.
Where to shop for food: Greenwich Market is a goldmine of food stalls for picnic supplies, featuring unique items like homemade dim sum from La-Mian and vegan cakes from Ruby’s of London. For more traditional offerings, check out M&S Simply Food at Cutty Sark Station before ending your day with a pint at the Old Brewery, a craft beer pub with a spacious outdoor terrace.
