UK's top picnic spots

As the weather begins to heat up, dining al fresco amongst the stunning British landscape can be the perfect option for a day out. But, where are the best UK trails to find the perfect picnic backdrops? Below, holiday lettings company, holidaycottages.co.uk, have revealed the six best picnic spots to enjoy across the country.

1. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park

This serene location boasts picturesque views that are cinema-screen-worthy – the heather-clad mountains and mint-shrouded glens of Loch an Eilein have provided the background to The Chronicles of Narnia and Monarch of the Glen. Sheltered by ancient pines, this spot is the perfect setting for any spring picnic date and was even voted Britain’s best picnic spot. Be sure to make a pit-stop on the way over for some regional treats, Scotch eggs and shortbread from Rothiemurchus Farm Shop.

• Spring temperatures are an average of 7.1 degrees, reaching highs of 13.3 degrees

2. Plankey Mill, Northumberland

If you’re planning a day out where you can tuck into your perfectly prepped picnic, taking a break to bathe in the waters of River Allen, the Plankey Mill trail is a must. There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied, including some lovely trails through the wooded River Gorge to the old mill and campsite. Make sure to keep a family game of wildlife ‘I spy’ on the cards, with dipper, grey wagtail, otter, and heron among the native faunae.

• Spring temperatures average at 9.5 degrees, reaching highs of 18.4 degrees

3. Lake Vyrnwy, Powys

Grab a moment of dinnertime tranquillity amongst beautiful open moorland and meadows by heading to Lake Vyrnwy. Passing by the storybook scenery of the Cinderella-style castle, the trail boasts plenty of breathtaking wildlife and waterfalls along the way to captivate adults and children alike. If you need some extra additions for your picnic, make sure you take the slight detour and head to Gillhams Deli for a wonderful range of fine food and drink.

• Spring temperatures average at 11 degrees, reaching highs of 18.4 degrees

4. Brownsea Island, Dorset

Take an excursion out to Brownsea Island this spring by catching the ferry across from Sandbanks. Lay down the blanket, park yourself on the edge of the lagoon and watch the yachts zip through the water as you dine alfresco. Brownsea Island is just under a mile wide and a mile long, meaning it’s perfectly manageable for some of the younger explorers in the family. If you can stop yourself gasping in awe, you might even catch sight of some elusive, grazing sika deer.

• Spring temperatures average at 10.3 degrees, reaching highs of 19.2 degrees

5. Box Hill, Surrey

Escape from the big smoke by packing your best finger food for a day trip to Box Hill. Try the Happy Valley circular walk and discover hidden woodland and Broadwood’s Tower, whilst taking in some scenic views of the Surrey countryside. Children and adults alike will no doubt love the Natural Play trail, where there are lots of trees and structures to clamber.

• Spring temperatures average at 10.8 degrees, reaching highs of 19.1 degrees

6. Cotswolds Way, Cotswolds

For history lovers amongst the family, the 102-mile Cotswold Way trail embarks from the classic market town of Chipping Campden. Starting in the north-east town of Painswick, follow the path south to Coaley Peak picnic site, covering a total of 11.5 miles. The path leads you through woodland tracks, venturing across the Stroudwater Canal, crossing the Commons and around the base of Pen Wood. Settle down for dinner at the Coaley Peak picnic tables, taking in the picturesque view across to the Forest of Dean while you tuck into your cold cuts. Keep an eye out for the seasonal ice cream vendor for a well-deserved sweet treat.