Home to more than 3,000 parks and green spaces, London provides the perfect spot to relax with family and friends over a picnic. Once you’re done seeing the sights from Buckingham Palace to Canary Wharf, take in views of the city with a range of picnic areas.
From public gardens to local parks, we’ve chosen the best places to have a picnic in London. Pack up a hamper, bring your blanket and soak up the sun with our best picnic spots London guide.
Can you picnic in London parks?
You are permitted to picnic in London parks. Some may have their own specific rules about picnicking. For example, in the Royal Parks, there are maximum group sizes, ranging from 20 at Bushy Park to 60 at St James’s Park. You may need permission if you’re looking to host an event.
As with all parks, barbecues and open flames are not allowed, nor are other hazards such as glass. It is permitted to drink alcohol, but alcoholic drinks must not be for sale.
Primrose Hill
For archetypal romantic picnic spots, London can offer no better than Primrose Hill. You may recognise the top of the hill from Hollywood blockbusters including One Day, Bridget Jones and Paddington. There are few places where you can get such a panoramic view of the city skyline, located 63 metres above sea level with vistas over Regent’s Park.
You can get to Primrose Hill easily from Swiss Cottage, Chalk Farm or Camden Town tube station. If you’re short of picnic ideas, head to the local delis and cafés in Camden for delicious street food, as well as European-inspired pastries, bread and cheeses.
The perfect picnic for couples awaits as you look out onto the city. Enjoy a kiss under Shakespeare’s Tree and watch the sun go down over the stunning Primrose Hill.
St Dunstan in the East
One of the quietest London picnic places you’ll find is St Dunstan in the East. It’s not quite in East London, but closest to landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as Monument and Tower Hill tube stations. Nestled within the ruins of a 12th Century church, it’s just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Central London.
Take a moment to relax and reflect in the gardens of this Grade I listed building. History fans will love the church’s story, from surviving the Great Fire of London in 1666 to the Blitz in 1941. There’s no need for a picnic blanket – have a seat on the benches or take a stroll around the fountain.
Bask in the sights and smells of greenery draping these centuries-old walls. Ideal for reading a book by yourself, enjoy St Dunstan in the East when the next sunny day comes along.
The V&A’s John Madejski Garden
The John Madejski Garden is one of the best covered picnic areas London has to offer – as it’s part of the Victoria and Albert Museum. After a day’s exploring 145 galleries and 5,000 years of art, take in the lush greenery and beautiful sculptures in the garden.
Funded by benefactor Sir John Madejski OBE, the garden surrounds a range of decorative buildings, covered in terracotta, mosaic and tiles. Enjoy this picturesque backdrop as you round off your day. If you cannot rely on the unpredictable British weather, you can always head indoors to the onsite café to dry off.
Here you can also stock up if you’re short on food. Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches and pastries to the sound of piano and harp music. You can find the Victoria and Albert Museum on Cromwell Road in Central London, near South Kensington tube station.
Hampstead Heath
Beyond the lidos and high street, Hampstead Heath picnic spots provide the ideal opportunity to enjoy the warmer weather. This district of North London is home to a range of hotspots, from Kenwood House to the Hampstead Pergola.
Take the chance to look out over London by climbing Parliament Hill, towering over the city at 98m high. See if you can spot iconic buildings like The Shard as you dine al fresco. The area is also popular with famous people, so indulge in a little celebrity spotting while you eat.
The area is highly accessible via Hampstead, Belsize Parks and Gospel Oak stations. Ideal for an active day exploring nature reserves and outdoor swimming, Hampstead Heath is one of the best picnic areas London has for families.
Richmond Park
One of the best London parks for picnics out of the city, Richmond Park is found in West London’s Zone 4. The area is known for its gorgeous grasslands and dedicated nature spots – nearby you’ll find Kew Gardens, the world-famous botanical gardens that house 40,000 plants.
Richmond Park picnic spots provide unfettered access to a vast spectrum of wildlife. Choose from Pembroke Lodge, the Isabella Plantation or Pen Ponds to have a bite. You may spot deer wandering around, as well as birds, fungi and wildflowers.
If you’d rather not bring food, head to the Georgian Mansion Pembroke Lodge, where you can enjoy views of the Thames Valley from ornate tea rooms. Richmond Park is ideal for walkers too, giving you views of St Paul’s Cathedral from atop King Henry’s Mound or the seven-mile perimeter Tamsin Trail.
Richmond Park is easily accessible from Richmond tube station, which also serves overground lines to busy stations including Clapham Junction, all the way through to Hackney and Stratford.
Explore the best picnic parks in London with The Clermont
Whether you’re touring London Zoo or taking a pedalo on The Serpentine in Hyde Park, you’re never far from The Clermont. After your day exploring the best picnics in London, enjoy a drink in our bars and stay over within easy reach of London’s busiest stations. Come for the views and stay for the good night’s sleep in this beautiful city.
