You may not be able to rely on the sunshine during a typical British summer, but you can bank on the picnic as a unique pleasure. But where to go? Try these spots…
Allen Banks and Staward Gorge, Northumberland: One of the largest areas of ancient semi-natural woodland in Northumberland, this is an ideal place for a picnic on the wild side. Sit outdoors under the trees, at a picnic bench or on the lush grass in a woodland clearing.
Cragside, Rothbury, Northumberland: There was a good reason why the Victorian inventor and industrialist Lord Armstrong chose Cragside to build his county residence – the views across the Coquet Valley to Simonside and the surrounding moorland are stunning and outdoor picnicking sites range from lakeside to woodland.
Gibside, Tyne and Wear: A taste of the country on the edge of the city, Gibside features wonderful Derwent Valley views, winding walks, refreshing open spaces, historic buildings and wildlife aplenty.
Hadrian’s Wall: Lace up your walking boots and work up an appetite on the way to Sycamore Gap, made famous in the Hollywood blockbuster Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, or one of the many vantage points offering panoramic views north and south of the wall near the National Trust’s Housesteads Fort.
Lindisfarne Castle, Holy Island, Northumberland: Picnic spots don’t get much more romantic or secluded than Holy Island, and the grassy bank below the castle looking out across the sea towards the Farne Islands and another of Northumberland’s famous fortresses, Bamburgh, is a stunning outdoor dining setting on a summer’s day.
Recipes
Ricotta and cherry tomato fingers
Focaccia with British asparagus, olives and sun-dried tomatoes
Beetroot, walnut & herb dip with pitta crisps
Wasabi salsa with radishes and homemade tortilla chips
