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Poole
Lake Pier
Lake Pier in Poole is a popular spot for many people whom take part in watersports; from kayaking to paddle boarding. During peak hours, the pier is very busy, but if you take a 5-minute walk down to Lake Beach, which is on the right, you will be able to find plenty of spots to set up camp and have yourself a small picnic or BBQ.
Not only this, but once you are done there are several walks you enjoy around the local area. Our favourite one is to walk around Ham Common, which has a beautiful lake in the centre.
The parking space at Lake Pier is limited but if you arrive early morning or evening you should be able to find a space. If not, there is always roads on the outside of the entrance which you can park on and take a small walk down to the pier.
Postcode: BH15 4LR
Poole Park
One of the most famous spots in Poole for a picnic is Poole Park, you will easily be able to find a space to park your car, or lock your bike up, and then finding a spot for your picnic or BBQ will be easy. There is an open field next to the park and around The Ark (which is a soft play centre, ice rink & café). There are also multiple benches place around the park which you will be able to sit down on and enjoy your lunch.
Once you have finished your picnic or BBQ, you may want to take a stroll around the beautiful Parkstone Bay, walking along the path through Baiter and then into Whitecliff, which is our next spot for your lunch!
Postcode: BH15 2SF
Whitecliff Harbourside Park
If you have children and are looking to go on a day out with a picnic or a BBQ in Poole, Whitecliff Harbourside Park may be the perfect spot for you. There is a vast field you can sit down on, and if you wanted to bring a ball there are multiple goals placed around the field for everyone to play in.
There are a good parking spots at Whitecliff, however the car park is quite small. If it's full, it's worth trying Baiter Harbourside car park, and then taking the 10-minute walk to the park.
Postcode: BH15 1TQ
Hamworthy Park
This is one of the most perfect places to go on a cool summer’s day. Hamworthy Park features a football goal, basketball court, community paddling pool & a small beach all within a 5-minute walk from each other so there is plenty to do and to enjoy.
You can set-up your picnic or BBQ in the field which is directly in the middle of all of these spots. The parking is limited, however if you visit during off-peak hours you will be fine. The car park is right next to the field, which is perfect for carrying a lot of food!
Postcode: BH15 4DH
Shaftesbury
Fontmell Down
Fontmell Down is a perfect spot for a picnic near Shaftesbury. Its expansive chalk grassland provides plenty of open space and picturesque backdrops for outdoor dining. Picnickers can spread out a blanket amidst the wildflower meadows, enjoying the calming nature while surrounded by the beauty of the Dorset countryside. The gentle slopes of the downs offer numerous spots for picnicking, each with its own view of the landscape. Fontmell Down's peaceful ambiance, stunning views, and natural beauty make it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing and scenic spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic with friends or family.
Postcode: SP7 0DT
Swanage
Dancing Ledge
Dancing Ledge offers an enchanting setting for a memorable picnic in Swanage. Providing a dramatic backdrop, with the sound of crashing waves and the salty sea breeze creating an invigorating atmosphere, locals flock here for picnics. Find a cozy spot on the rocky platform or spread out a blanket on the nearby grassy areas, surrounded by views of the sea and cliffs. Additionally, the opportunity to explore the surrounding coastal paths and discover hidden coves enhances the adventure of the outing. Whether enjoying a meal with friends or a romantic picnic for two, Dancing Ledge offers a unique and picturesque location to savor delicious food amidst the wonders of the Dorset coastline.
Postcode: BH19 3LD
Wareham
Blue Pool
Blue Pool is an ideal spot for a picnic, offering a calming and picturesque setting, especially in the dry seasons. Surrounded by lush woodlands, this peaceful location would be a great spot to sit down with a picnic and a book! Picnickers can enjoy their meals amidst the surrounding nature, with plenty of benches and picnic tables available for seating. Additionally, there is the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature trails, adding to the appeal, making Blue Pool a delightful destination for a memorable picnic experience.
Postcode: BH20 5AR
West Dorset
Mapperton House
About: Visit Mapperton House & Gardens for a scenic and peaceful day out! Once you've taken a tour of the Manor House and strolled around their award-winning gardens, why not end off your trip with a picnic?
Visitors can take their picnics and enjoy them in the picnic area by to the car park but not within the Gardens themselves. So, it is best to either start or end your trip with your picnic!
Address: Mapperton Estate, Mapperton, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NR
Telephone: 01308 862645
Minterne House & Gardens
About: Visit Minterne House & Gardens for a scenic and peaceful day out! Minterne boasts a world renowned and completely unique collection of Himalayan Rhododendrons and Azaleas, with Spring bulbs, Cherries, Maples and many fine and rare trees. Wander the trail and enjoy their chain of small lakes, waterfalls and streams.
Once you've toured the stunning gardens, why not settle in for a picnic!
Personal picnics are also allowed on estate/in the gardens but you are kindly asked to leave the garden as you found it for others to enjoy and to take your litter with you
Address: Minterne House, Minterne Magna, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7AU
Telephone: 01300 341 370
Weymouth
Sandfoots Castle
Sandsfoot Castle offers a captivating backdrop for a fun picnic experience in Weymouth. Set against the soothing sounds of the coast, the castle ruins provide a unique atmosphere for outdoor dining. With great views of the surrounding sea and coastline, picnickers can soak in the beauty of their surroundings while enjoying their spread of food. The park surrounding the castle features both greenery and benches, giving you the option of a classic picnic on a blanket or a more comfortable seated experience.
Postcode: DT4 8QE
Wimborne
Little Pickle at the Mill
About: There are multiple great spots for picnics in and around Dorset, but one of our favourites is the Little Pickle at The Mill.
They provide freshly made smoothies, homemade sausage rolls, and delicious sandwiches.
Plus their picnic boxes are available for both adults and kids to grab and go or settle down by the river.
Pop in and spend this sunny Sunday with The Little Pickle at The Mill, they're open from 10am - 4pm on Sundays for picnics.
*sandwich, crisps, drink, sweet treat, valid on selected items only.
Price:
- Adults £12.50
- Kids £6.50
Address: Walford Mill Crafts, Knobcrook Road, Stone Lane, Wimborne, BH21 1NL
Telephone: 07961 347721