Our Top 8 Picnic Spots in London

Our Top 8 Picnic Spots in London

From Monday 29th March in the U.K. people will be able to meet outdoors either in groups of six or as two households! If you're in London or planning to visit once lockdown eases, check out our favourite outdoor spaces each with places to pick up takeaway food & drinks on the way.

1. Hackney Marshes - East London

As one of the largest areas of common land in London, Hackney Marshes is a popular spot in the summer months. What we love about this space is all the different areas, from the main green where people congregate for picnics to the sports pitches and even a nature reserve at the north of the park, it’s got a bit of everything.

We love doing a loop of the circumference along the River Lea with a coffee in hand. We recommend The Petit Grind which is just west of the marshes, selling artisan coffee and organic sandwiches. If you’re looking for something more substantial, head to Millfield's Coffee for a bigger brunch menu as well as beer, wine and cocktails!

2. Kew Gardens - West London

One of our favourite things about West London is Kew Gardens and no matter how many times we visit, it’s still as great as before. As the world’s largest botanical garden (housing over 50,000 species of plants and mycology) it's both a leisurely and educational day out.

Being one of London’s top tourist attractions, it can be busy on a sunny day, but there’s plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and find a spot in. For the perfect outdoor cuisine, we think Sushi is always a good idea. Maki and Bowl are just down the road. With poké, sushi and bao buns all under £10, you can’t go wrong.

If you’re on a caffeine hunt, try Kiss The Hippo. Firstly, because of the fab name, secondly for the fab coffee. As well as being great tasting, they work directly with farmers and manufacturers in their supply chain to create coffee that has sustainability and ethics at the forefront of the business model. They are certified organic, are the world’s first carbon neutral roastery, as well as extensive charity work. We can’t rave about them enough.

3. Mile End Park - East London

For a great stroll (got to get them steps in), Regents Canal is lovely in the spring. Either starting at Victoria Park and walking south, or beginning on the river at Limehouse, there are some great places to stop at along the way.

For a hot beverage and a hot meal The Coffee Room serves your usual tea room classics as well as hip new drinks like Turmeric and Matcha Lattes. They have comfy food classics like lasagne, polenta and freshly baked focaccia.

If you’re in the mood for a cheeky pint, The Rusty Bike is in walking distance, and is doing takeaway drinks and food. Their Thai menu and draft beers are also available for deliveries if you feel like ordering in after your walk.

4. Kensington Gardens - West London

For more of a fancy day out, why not head over to Kensington Palace and the once private gardens. Just west of Hyde Park, the gardens are full of history from classical sculptures and fountains to the historical Serpentine Gallery.

Being near the palace surely calls for tea over coffee, so we’d recommend the Muffin Man Tea Shop. They have quite the extensive list of tea including their own speciality blend as well as a long menu of English tea time classics. From apple pie (hot or cold) to scones to something called ‘Queen Mother’s Cake,' whatever that is. We’ll have one of each.

If you’re looking for something from further afield, Platter London just across from the palace is an independent cafe and kitchen hosting three food brands which are available for delivery and pick up. We love the sound of Orphalese Lebanese Cuisine. Pick it up and head into the gardens for alfresco dining fit for a queen.

5. Clissold Park - North London

Clissold is not too far from where we are based in North London, and we love it! With a gorgeous manor house in the heart of the park, as well as a butterfly sanctuary, deer pen and skate park, this is a place where you can spend the day and is great for the whole family.

A stone’s throw away is Hourglass Coffee, selling lovely takeaway drinks, as well as everything you need to make the perfect brew at home. Pick up a beverage or stock up on some beans. We recommend Woodstoke Cafe for a spot of brunch/lunch. They have all the breakfast basics including avocado on toast, poached eggs and croissants.

6. Brockwell Park - South London

If you’re south of the river, Brockwell Park is a must, in addition to being able to see a wonderful view of London from the top of the park. The main event is of course the lido, but if you can’t get in for a dip, sitting on the grass with some delicious food is good enough too. One of our favourite’s Four Hundred Rabbits (we discovered them in lockdown 1.0) are right next door and we strongly believe that pizza is the best picnic food (it’s good hot and cold). All washed down with one of their cool craft beers. Can’t get better than that.

If you’re looking for a quick coffee and snack, head to Perks & White!

7. Hampstead Heath - North London

The perfect place to visit in the summer is Hampstead Heath. Made up of 790 acres of land, with stately home Kenwood House situated in the centre (does anyone else associate this with Notting Hill?) the heath has a range of different areas that can be enjoyed. From the swimming ponds, to the woodland areas, there’s so much to explore.

If you’re coming from the overground (Hampstead Heath), The Nook is a great place to grab a coffee and pastry. We love the luxury hot chocolate or award winning ice-cream (with vegan options too!). If you’re wanting food, Silverberry Deli have a range of brunch and lunch options from Shakshuka to a classic cheeseburger.

8. Dulwich Park - South London

Our most southern recommendation is Dulwich Park! It’s easy to get your 10,000 steps in, walking around the circular path of the park. Grab a hot drink from Romeo Jones and do a few laps, we guarantee you’ll see more cute dogs that you ever have. If you’re feeling active, you can hire pedal boats - great for a fun daytime date.

If you’re in the mood for food, you can’t go wrong with Italian. Rocca di Papa has an authentic antipasti menu including all the traditional pasta, pizza and salad dishes.


We hope this was helpful - keep it saved and come back to it when you're stuck for places to go!

Remember to follow government guidelines and maintain social distancing as much as possible when out and about.