Making the most of warm and sunny weather to enjoy a picnic outside is an activity many people enjoy when they can.
Whether you are looking for a day out with the kids or a peaceful spot with a view, there are many great choices.
If you're looking for a place in Southampton to settle down with some sandwiches and other treats on a blanket then we have some suggestions.
5 of the best spots for a picnic in Southampton
Mayflower Park
The waterfront park with views of the River Test is a popular space that can work nicely as a picnic spot.
It has received praise from some visitors on Google Reviews, with one writing: "Brilliant for sitting watching the ships and having a picnic. Nice cafe here as well as a Mr Whippy van."
Another shared: "Lovely place to have a picnic, take kids to a park or just to see the ships".
Additionally, Mayflower Park is well-received on Tripadvisor, earning a 4/5 score from 245 reviews.
Cedar Lodge Park
Located around the western area of Southampton, Cedar Lodge Park is described as an "attractive open space for local residents" by the Southampton City Council.
They add: "Cedar Lodge Park is fully enclosed, making it popular for families with children and people walking their dogs."
It has some picnic benches and green space if you want to lay down a blanket on a warm summer day.
Riverside Park
Another option with a view out to the water is Riverside Park which is located next to the River Itchen.
If you're looking for great green spaces with picturesque views then this could be a place for your next picnic.
It has earned commendation from many visitors, with one person on Google Reviews writing: "Riverside Park in Southampton is an absolute gem nestled along the banks of the River Itchen. This sprawling green space offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
"Whether you're out for a leisurely stroll, enjoying a picnic with family and friends, or simply admiring the tranquil waterside views, Riverside Park never fails to impress."
Additionally, it has earned a 4.5/5 score on Tripadvisor from 205 reviews.
Southampton Common
So much love for Southampton Common, we’re so lucky to have it - my daily walks here is sometimes the best part of my day 🌳❤️ pic.twitter.com/0W95mug7Vo
— Satvir Kaur (@LabourSatvir) October 23, 2023
The largest of Southampton's open spaces, Southampton Common features woodland, rough grassland, ponds, wetlands, lakes and parkland.
Plenty of people have sung its praises as being ideal for a picnic, with one person on Google Reviews writing: "Well looked after. Lots of trees, lovely ponds and great open spaces perfect for a picnic."
Another shared: "Really nice for a family day! We went there yesterday with friends and had a picnic, the kids had loads of fun going around the playground and exploring around the woods as well."
Recommended reading:
- 5 of the best beaches to visit within an hour's drive of Southampton
- 7 of Southampton's best TripAdvisor reviews by visitors
- Southampton's best eight pubs according to TripAdvisor
Houndwell Park
Houndwell Park is right in the centre of Southampton and provides a nice open space for those who want to lay down a picnic blanket.
If you have kids with you the park also has a large play area where they can let off some steam if needed.
Some people have praised it as a great picnic spot, with one person writing on Google Reviews: "Very quaint park, good to have an afternoon picnic with family, children's play park is sizeable. Plenty of food nearby as this is in the heart of the city."
Another shared: "Beautiful place for a picnic or for a walk".
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