11 great places to go for a picnic in Northern Ireland
Summer brings the perfect picnic weather 🌤️🍏🥪
Last updated 6th Jun 2018
Northern Ireland offers an abundance of great places to picnic. From charming coastal spots, to stunning woodlands and rolling countryside, unpack your hamper and enjoy a sunny day outdoors with friends and family.
We've put together a summer picnic checklist where you can relax and enjoy a fun-filled and stress-free afternoon.
Murlough Nature Reserve, County Down
Summer and the seaside go hand in hand and where better to soak up the sun than Murlough. Follow the trails and boardwalks through the ancient dunes, before emerging onto the sandy Blue Flag beach with its crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming. Pack a bucket and spade and enjoy a family day by the sea.
Find out more about Murlough, including opening times, facilities and more
Belfast Botanic Gardens, County Antrim
An amazing green space and an ideal spot to escape the afternoon heat. The gardens have been enjoyed as a public park since 1895. As you walk into the Tropical Ravine in Belfast's Botanic Gardens, you are transported to another world, it has recently had a £3.8m transformation.
Check out the nearby Ulster Museum, home to a rich collection of art, history and national sciences and is open free to all. There is a children's playground, a bowling green and beautiful walks around the grounds.
Whiterocks Beach, County Derry~Londonderry
Awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award again in 2015, the beach has become a favourite with locals and international tourists. Situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, take in views of the stunning limestone cliffs stretching as far as Dunluce Castle.
It is very popular with walkers to and from Portrush along the continuous stretch of sand forming East Strand.
On the main coast road, you will find plenty of scenic pull-in spots with great picnic areas.
Find out more about Whiterocks, including opening times, facilities and more
Silent Valley, County Down
Nestled in the heart of the Mournes with a spectacular backdrop, Silent Valley is the perfect place to enjoy a family picnic. A regular bus service operates in the summer season to Ben Crom. Toilets and refreshments available during summer months.
If you are feeling adventurous, try your hand at the 3 mile circular walk from the car park towards the dam or hike nearby Slieve Binnian.
Cushendun, County Antrim
You’ll struggle to find a more picturesque picnic spot. This quaint historic village is steeped in character and folklore with white washed cottages lining the harbour. A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a great spot for rock pooling and if you’re lucky, you might just see Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre on a clear day.
Find out more about Cushendun, including opening times, facilities and more
Florence Court, County Fermanagh
The gardens, visitor centre and forest parks walks provide a perfect backdrop for family day exploring. Located around eight miles from Enniskillen, the house and demense were once formerly the home of the Earls of Enniskillen (Cole Family). Enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden and holiday cottage, or for a longer walk try out the 15km of trails.
Find out more about Florence Court, including opening times, facilities and more
Portaferry, County Down
Visit Northern Ireland's Only Aquarium at Exploris, take in the tranquil views of Strangford Lough (be sure to pack your binoculars!) or avail or the regular ferry service linking to the village of Strangford on the other side of the lough. A stunning seaside village, allow the little ones to let off some steam at Castle Park and Cunningburn Picnic Area.
Ballycastle, County Antrim
If you love ice cream and picnics, this is the place to be. Set along the idyllic sea front, Cafe Boyles and Mauds are well worth a visit.
It's also a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, including the world famous Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede and five mile long Raithlin Island.
Castle Ward, County Down
Overlooking Strangford Lough, Castle Ward includes 332 hectares (820 acres) of landscaped gardens offering 36km of trails, picnic areas, a kids play park and restaurant.
An excellent trail for spotting wildlife and taking in the stunning scenery of Strangford Lough, Audley's Castle and Farmyard at Castle Ward.
Did you know HBO's Game of Thrones was filmed at Castle Ward? Castle Ward’s historic farmyard is the location of Winterfell, the backdrop for much of season one.
Benone Strand, County Derry~Londonderry
Benone Strand forms part of one of Ireland's longest beaches. Benone is popular throughout the summer with great views along the North Coast, to Inishowen in Donegal and to Scotland. The strand is a perfect place for relaxing with family and friends, while enjoying a picnic together.
Look out for seals, porpoises and bird life.
Find out more about Benone, including opening times, facilities and more
Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim
Known as the "Queen of the Glens", home to three spectacular waterfalls and forest trails that offer picturesque panoramic views. There are beautiful views of Scotland on a clear day.
It caters for many outdoor activities including walking, camping and horse riding. It has picnic and barbecue areas as well as a tea house and lots of scenic green space for the kids to enjoy.