Come rain or shine there is nothing like gathering your friends and heading to the park for some fun, frolics and food, especially if (like us) you are recovering from two festivals in as many days! Not only do picnics give us the perfect excuse to sport a bit of gingham, but they also give us the ideal opportunity to enjoy a side of London we rarely get to see, with people we adore.

London is full of rural escapes – as long we you know where to go! Here are a few of our favourites urban countrysides just waiting to play host to you and your friends…

Richmond Park

London’s very own slice of the countryside. It’s impossible not to love lazing within this 900 acre expanse of lush green grass, with delicate deer grazing near by and actual peace and quiet. Perfect for peace and quiet whilst remaining in one of the busiest cities in the world.

Hampstead Heath

Not only does Hampstead Heath have one of the best views of London but you also have the option of a pre-picnic dip in the one of the Heath’s swimming ponds. The fact that it resides in picturesque Hampstead will just make you wish you didn’t have to get the train home when the sun goes down.

Regent’s Park

Where else can you lounge on daisy covered grass whilst rey herons nibble bread crumbs around you, whilst within a stone’s throw from one of the busiest streets in the world? And if grass isn’t your thing then you can always take to the water in one of the rowing boats for rent.

Clissold park

One of our favourite secret green spaces, this little park is a splash of serenity in the midst of North East London’s coolest area. Nice and close to Stoke Newington’s Church Street so you have a plethora of organic food sources to form your picnic from and a nice view of the local talent!