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With the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, it can be difficult to figure out where to go to celebrate this year’s National Picnic Week, but that’s where we come in, here are our five choices for open spaces across the UK where you can safely practice social distancing and enjoy a picnic!

National Picnic Week takes place every June and is a celebration of the wonderful pastime of picnicking, the aim of the event is to get more people out and about enjoying the nationals open spaces, getting some sunshine and of course, tasting incredible, local produce. Now, with everything that is going on with Covid-19 it can be difficult to go to your favourite picnic spot, particularly if it is some distance away and not everyone has gardens or space for an inside picnic (though they are great fun and we recommend!). If you have an open space near you that you can safely keep to the 2m rule, then do head out and utilise that with your favourite snacks, just remember to follow government guidelines while doing so. If you’ve no idea what spaces are available to you, here are our pick of top spots in the UK.

Roundhay Park, Leeds


If you live in or around Leeds, this park is perfect for anyone wanting to avoid people but still enjoy being in the great outdoors. It has over 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodland and gardens and being one of the biggest city parks in Europe, you’ll have plenty of room for a picnic.

Richmond Park, London

Richmond Park covers 2,500 acres of land and being one of the capital’s Royal Parks, there is plenty of space for picnicking. Just remember to clear up after yourself when you leave, it is home to herds of deer and rare species of birds and other creatures, so leave it how you found it.

Studland Beach, Dorset

As this beach is maintained by the National Trust, you may have to check the local information as to what access or restrictions may be in place. The beach stretches over four miles, so there should be plenty of room to maintain 2 meters between you and other visitors. Be aware that the coast does tend to get busy, so only stay if you can do so safely.

Castlerigg Stone Circle, Keswick

This is one of the UK’s most impressive historical sites and being in the Lake District, there are plenty of scenic walks and places to stop off for a picnic. Plus if you’re an Outlander fan, you might want to run through the stones and see what happens!

Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire

The downs are the highest point in the east of England and there are glorious views across endless green fields. Again, this National Trust managed space is vast, so you should be able to picnic safely, but if it is busy follow government advice and remember to take your mess home with you.

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