Epsom Downs
A stone’s throw from the iconic racecourse and with views over London, the sweeping lawns and shaded woodlands of Epsom Downs make for a wonderful picnic spot. Grab a nice Greek Salad from your local deli, pop some shorts on, and plonk yourself down for the afternoon.
Nonsuch Park
The sprawling meadows that surround Nonsuch Mansion House could be the set for a period drama, or they could be an even better set for your dream picnic. Either way you’d be wise to stock up on thinly-sliced European meats, and the odd absolutely enormous baguette.
Rosebery Park
With swathes of open space if you’re a sun-seeker, and plenty of shade if you’re not, Rosebery Park makes for an idyllic outdoor eating area – it’s also well within walking distance of Epsom High Street in case you run out of supplies and need to replenish your pitted olives quota.
Horton Country Park
Over 400 acres of fields, woods and ponds, there’s no shortage of space in Horton Park for your antipasti spread and finger sandwiches. Settle down amongst the array of wildlife or within the bluebell woods to enjoy that relaxing picnic you’ve always dreamed of.
Newlands Corner
Enjoy your cheese and pickle sarnie with a view, as Newlands Corner overlooks the stunning Surrey Hills and provides the perfect backdrop to any picnic. It even offers picnic tables (swanky), which means no more ants crawling into places they shouldn’t.
East Molesey
For a more metropolitan picnic setting, East Molesey, set on the banks of the River Thames, has lots to offer. It’s a great place to flop on the grass sipping Pimms while muscular oarsmen grunt pat in their boats. Plus, there are a couple of café and bar options, should you tire of fixing your own refreshments.
Box Hill
Box Hill is a National Trust site perched at the top of the North Downs. It’s a special area of both scientific and historical interest – also, when the sun’s set to full wattage, it provides a wonderful backdrop to a long, lazy afternoon spent folding various bits of charcuterie into your mouth.
Polesden Lacey
The Edwardian house and grounds of Polesden Lacey are one of the National Trust’s most popular sites, and for good reason. The estate offers countless walks that ramble through beautiful countryside. Or, alternatively, you could just sit down and start eating a makeshift bruschetta.