Idyllic picnic spots across Northern Ireland

It’s time to dine alfresco 🧺🍇🥪

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 2nd Apr 2021
Last updated 2nd Apr 2021

There’s nothing sweeter than a sunny afternoon, spent relaxing on the lawn with a hamper full of goodies.

To help you decide on the best place to picnic, we’ve picked some of our favourite hotspots across Northern Ireland.

All you need to do is decide which sandwiches and snacks to feast on.

NI's perfect picnic spots:

Rowallene Gardens, Saintfield

Rowallene is dotted with fantastic picnic opportunities, why not settle yourself between the floral gardens and rolling trees. There are handy picnic benches if you'd prefer around the grounds, and if you've forgotten snacks, you should visit their on-site café currently offering takeaway.

Botanic Gardens, Belfast

If you live close to the city, you won't have to travel too far to find a picturesque spot to chill. If you're after a serene space, then the tropical greenhouse at Botanic is just for you. With lots of exciting cafes and takeaway food options available, you can feast on great food and relax at the same time.

Gortin Lakes, Tyrone

Arguably one of NI's most picturesque locations, the breaktaking views of the Sperrins landscape are the perfect backdrop for a family picnic.

Glenarm Castle, Ballymena

This year Glenarm Castle added another exciting element to their garden with a new Woodland Walk. Pack a basket and blanket and immerse yourself in the forest.

Castle Ward, Comber

Castle Ward has a host of picnic hotspots available for the public, from the lough shores to the forest floor. But if you haven't visited the sucken Victoria garden before, then that's your first place to stop by. The incredible romantic scents that follow the lawn and the buzzing dragonflies are like something out of a movie!


Delamont Country Park

Kids will love an adventure day at Delamont, they've got a fantastic range of playground games, swings and slides. Plus, in the summer they offer rides on their bespoke railway train which loops the park, complete with train station and café. There are numerous walking routes and paths so families can explore the woodlands forests, Strangford Lough shore and wild gardens.

Cave Hill, Belfast

Park the car at Belfast Castle and hike your way to the top of Cave Hill, you won't be disappointed! You'll be greeted with panoramic views of Belfast city below, and on a clear spring day you can glimpse across the Irish Sea and spot Scotland.

Loughall Park, Armagh

Kids will have a ball at Loughall Park, the exciting adventure play area and Junior Adventure Trail offer a mini assault course with swinging steps, Burma Bridge and Tram Tracks. They'll be entertained all day long! Picnic and BBQ facilities are also available.

Castle Coole, Fermanagh

Surrounded by its stunning landscape on the edge of Enniskillen, its majestic estate offers manicured lawns, fabulous flowers, walking trails and dog-friendly spots.

Florence Court, Fermanagh

As well as a play area and great picnic spot with extensive walks across the tranquil estate. The Blue Trail at Florence Court is a gentle walk through the woods, that's awash with vibrant florals and colour in the spring

Ness Country Park, Derry/Londonderry

Tucked in the wooded Glen of the Burntollet River, south-east of Derry/Londonderry, lies Ness Country park. The Park has wildlife ponds, picnic tables, wildflower meadows and a new visitor centre. You'll find a huge variety of picnic spots along the winding woodland trails, manicured lawns and tranquil ponds.

Dungannon Park, Dungannon

Dungannon Park is a 70-acre 'oasis' just two miles from Dungannon town. With a peaceful lake in the centre kids can feed the ducks and swans from the while you set up the picnic rug and yummy supplies.

Read more:

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