Wanting to get out and make the most of the weather before summer officially ends? Why not pack a picnic and head on out to one of these picturesque locations across Norfolk.
• Coltishall Common
Located west of Wroxham, Coltishall is a small village sometimes referred to as the 'Gateway to the Broads'. The village's common offers a large grass area overlooking the River Bure that is ideal for picnics in the sunshine. Sit back, enjoy a snack and watch as the boats pass by.
• Blickling Estate
Blickling Hall and its surrounding estate are sights to behold and are bursting with history. Believed to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, the National Trust estate is a brilliant place to explore, with 950 acres of woodland and parkland, a variety of gardens and its own lake.
• Ranworth Broad
Where better to go for a picnic than the Norfolk Broads? Ranworth Broad, part of the Bure Marshes National Nature Reserve, offers various walks and trails that can be followed to find a perfect picnic spot. You'll probably also encounter a variety of wildlife along the way. Why not stop in on the floating Broads Wildlife Centre as you go and admire the panoramic views across the water.
• Brancaster Beach
Norfolk has an array of great beaches to choose from when it comes to picnic spots and Brancaster is no exception to this. The area boasts miles of unspoilt golden sand, meaning there is always plenty of room for a picnic, plus you can work off your food with a stroll along the beach afterwards.
• Plantation Garden
Built by Henry Trevor in the late 19th century, Plantation Garden is a leisure garden on Earlham Road known locally as 'the secret garden'. It features a 57ft-long rustic bridge, the remains of an underground boiler house, a gothic fountain as well as an Italian terrace and would make for an enchanting spot to enjoy a picnic with someone special.
• Pensthorpe Natural Park
With 700 acres of land to explore at Pensthorpe, you're bound to find a great location to spread out a blanket and serve up some tasty treats, surrounded by stunning flowers, wildlife and a sprawling lake.
• Sheringham Park
Designed by Humphrey Repton in 1812, Sheringham Park is an expanse of woodland and parkland boasting miles of stunning coastal views and a vast collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. With so many beautiful sights to see, you'll be stuck for where to stop and sit for your picnic.
• Eaton Park
More than just a great picnic spot, Eaton Park, one of Norwich's most historic parks, offers visitors a great day out with lots to see and do. For families there's a large playground, a play-fountain, a skate park, sporting facilities, a boat pond and plenty of space for the kids to run wild.
• Walsingham Abbey Grounds
The ruins of Walsingham medieval priory are a spectacular sight and would make a unique backdrop for a picnic. The Abbey grounds, which span 20 acres, also feature a Norman arch, twin wells and bath as well as a medieval bridge and an impressive Gatehouse.
• Beeston Bump
Beeston Hill, or Beeston Bump as it is more commonly known today is a cliff-top hill overlooking the coast and village below. Why not work for your lunch by climbing to the top, where you can then sit on one of the many benches and enjoy the views as you eat.
• Blakeney
Located at the heart of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Blakeney has a range of spots ideal for a picnic, including Friary Hills, an area east of the village comprised of grassland, trees and gorse, and of course Blakeney beach.
• Where's your favourite picnic spot? Let us know in the comments below.
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