Yorkshire is home to sandy beaches, verdant landscapes, dramatic cliffs and coves as well as quaint villages and riverside parks, all perfect for a spot of al fresco dining.
Aysgarth Falls | Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire
A trip to Aysgarth Falls is perfect for everyone and for any occasion. There are three tiers of gorgeous waterfalls to see in this stunning part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park with plenty of space to have a picnic nearby. This is suitable for all with an all-terrain wheelchair available to aid those who need it and ensure no one misses out. This location is family-, cycle- and dog-friendly with excellent dark-sky views along this River Ure feature which has been attracting visitors for over 200 years.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden | Ripon, North Yorkshire
Founded in 1132, it’s no surprise this landmark attracts 300,000 visitors per year. There are picnic tables and areas for a comfortable and scenic outdoor dining experience at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. The site is full of history and wonder with plenty to learn from the available audio guides and guided tours. There is an exciting adventure playground for younger visitors with an adapted swing to make the experience accessible to everyone. You can opt to round off your day with a trip to the National Trust gift shop or plant shop.
Ravenscar | Scarborough, North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire
A charming seaside village on the Yorkshire Coast with a rich history, Ravenscar offers a tranquil setting for a picnic in a beautiful location. Here, you’ll find rocky beaches, jagged cliffs, and the lush landscapes of the North York Moors. The Ravenscar Visitor Centre offers indoor seating and an outdoor picnic area, making it the ideal location regardless of the weather. Ravenscar is also home to the remains of the Peak Alum Works, a WWII radar station and a must-see former railway line, The Cinder Track.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr | Harrogate, North Yorkshire
The Royal Horticultural Society Garden Harlow Carr is a wonderful location for a picnic thanks to the approximately 200 benches that are scattered around the gardens. You could spend the day wandering around and soaking up the Yorkshire sunshine or head to the garden centre for a look around. There is a nearby café and an iconic Bettys Tea Room location where you’ll find delicious delicacies to go with the ideal place to enjoy them right next door. Younger guests can enjoy the log maze while visitors of all ages are invited to delight in the lush gardens, specially designed to represent Yorkshire’s natural allure.
Hardcastle Crags | Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
Spread around the woodland area of Hardcastle Crags, there are several picnic tables with truly special vistas over this National Trust site. A former cotton mill and today a glorious wooded valley, this location is ideal for walking trails or water sports in the river with picnic spots near Gibson Mill, Lady Royd Field and opposite the Crags. The mill hosts exhibitions and crafting activities for all ages to enjoy with refreshments on offer at the café. There are three sets of stepping stones for some riverside adventure while the shallows are ideal for paddling on warmer days.
Bolton Abbey | Wharfdale, North Yorkshire
Formerly known as Bolton Priory, Bolton Abbey was founded in 1154 and to this day attracts visitors from all over the UK. Bolton Abbey is not only perfect for a picnic, but there are also designated barbecue spots around the estate. You’ll find picnic benches and plenty of places to purchase food on-site for a more spontaneous trip. You can enjoy a unique opportunity to step back in time and enjoy your lunch by the ruins of the abbey.
Forge Valley | North York Moors, North Yorkshire
Close to Scarborough, Forge Valley is a National Nature Reserve nestled within the North York Moors National Park. The valley’s intriguing formation was caused by glacial erosion and makes the ideal day out for geologists, and its historical significance is bound to captivate the attention of all visitors. There are walking trails and plenty of room for activities and exploration with a designated picnic space allowing visitors somewhere to unwind, recharge and refuel.
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