Travel
The Best Scenic Spots To Enjoy A Picnic In West London
For relaxed day out with some delicious treats, look no further than these great London picnic spots.
Everyone knows that London, for all its incredible shops and restaurants, can be a little on the pricey side. London is in the midst of a long, hot summer and the best way to make the most of it isn’t to stay inside all day – instead, consider packing up a bag with as many snacks as possible and enjoying a relaxed picnic in one of London’s many scenic parks or gardens. It’s the perfect sustainable way to make the most of the final days of summer before autumn sets in.
You could opt for a classic British picnic of light bites or a classy affair of champagne, strawberries and cream and finger sandwiches. You can buy fresh, local ingredients from some great shops, markets and delis in London so that you can have a real feast made with organic produce.
If you happen to be staying at one of our properties, you can arrange for it to come fully stocked with lots of goodies, so all you have to do is decide where to go. Don’t forget a picnic blanket!
St. James’ Park
You’ll be hard pressed to find a better park in the very heart of London than St. James’. Despite being a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square and the West End, the park is a tranquil oasis with a beautiful lake, café and lots of outdoor space where you can set up a picnic. St James’ is just a short walk from Victoria and is located next to Buckingham Palace, the Mall and Horse Guard’s Parade, so it’s perfect for a day of sightseeing without the need for public transport.
If you’re searching for somewhere to buy fresh food for your picnic, you can find a few excellent farmer’s markets nearby such as Town & Country Farmer’s Market in Mayfair or you can head to Whole Foods in Piccadilly Circus for high-quality organic food. You can also buy some organic British ingredients from the famous Daylesford Organic, who have stores in Victoria, Kensington and Notting Hill.
Richmond Park
A little further afield, Richmond is the place to go if you’re in search of a true piece of nature in London. It is the largest of London’s Royal Parks, and has miles of woodland and parkland to explore, including the many friendly deer who roam the grounds. As it is so big, you can always find a quiet, shady spot to lay out your lunch and be able to simply enjoy nothing but the sounds of nature.
Richmond is a buzzing area and the river is particularly lovely to explore on a boat or by foot, or you could even set your picnic up by the riverbank and watch the world go by. There are plenty of shops to pick up some healthy food, but just a short way from central London on the District Line, you could also bring everything with you. Alternatively, Richmond has a variety of great vegan food options, such as Retreat Kitchen, where you can grab plant-based lunch bowls, smoothies and organic wine to take away.
Kensington Palace Gardens
One of London’s most popular and yet surprisingly peaceful spots, Kensington Gardens are a part of Hyde Park, but you’ll have the historic palace as your picnic backdrop. Set up your blanket here to make the most of a sunny day in London, with the bustling shops of High Street Kensington and the museums and cafes of South Kensington just a quick stroll away.
If you need to cool down, head to the Serpentine in Hyde Park to get a cool breeze from the lake or take out a pedalo on the water. For the best food around, pick up some supplies at either Notting Hill or Earl’s Court Farmer’s market which sell organic produce and have loads of excellent hot vegan and veggie options.
Holland Park
Did you know there’s a little slice of Japan in London? For a truly zen afternoon of picnicking, cycle or walk the short distance to Holland Park which is located just off Kensington High Street and discover one of London’s prettiest parks. The Kyoto Garden is a beautiful area filled with flora, bonsai trees, waterfalls and benches where you can enjoy it all in peace.
There are so many things to see in the park, particularly in the summer when the huge multi-coloured rose garden comes into bloom, or you can enjoy the shade of the Orangery to escape the heat. The park borders the amazing west London neighbourhoods of Earl’s Court, Kensington and Notting Hill so you won’t be short of great place to find a bite to eat and this is also one of the best areas to find vegan restaurants and sustainable coffee shops, if you want a cup of the good stuff with your picnic.
Your picnic, provided by us
If you’re staying at a Nestor property, you don’t have to spend time searching the shops for picnic foods and can simply get out and make the most of the day, by having your fridge stocked on arrival with loads of tasty, local goodies such as Borden’s crisps, vegan and veggie snacks, wine, juices and more.
All of our properties are spacious and comfortable, and celebrate sustainability. Properties are located in central London locations such as Kensington and Earl’s Court, meaning you can walk or cycle to many of London’s best parks, neighbourhoods and attractions.