Picnics can be one of the most wholesome activities to enjoy with family and friends in County Durham.
But as the weather gets warmer, you might be wondering what parks you can visit in the area to set up a feast of fresh bakery treats, juicy ripe fruit and maybe even a tipple or two.
We have put together a selection of some of the best parks in the county to visit for a picnic according to their Tripadvisor reviews.
So grab your books, blankets and snacks - let's see what there is to offer near you.
@gv.turner 📍 Hardwick Park, County Durham. 🌲. #OutdoorAdventures #NatureWalks #OutdoorTikToks #ExploringNature #hardwickhall #hardwickpark #CountrysideViews #PondLife #BritishSummerTime #northeast #northeastengland #nature #UKSummer #travelmemories #beautifulnature #forestry #forestaesthetic #ExploringTheWoods #AtTheLake #countydurham ♬ original sound - 🌲Georgia 🌲
Some of the best parks for a picnic in County Durham
Hardwick Park
Location: Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees, TS21 2DN
Rating: 4.5/5
One person said: “Lovely walk around the park, plenty of parking, spaces, lovely safe play area and picnic tables. Interesting visitor centre with exhibition explaining history of the park.”
Riverside Park
Location: Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, Durham, DH3 3PL
Rating: 4.5/5
On their first visit, someone posted: “Even though I've passed this park many times I never been! What a surprise- plenty of parking, various paths/routes to follow, a nice river walk to see the ducks, swans, moorhens etc.
“One route takes you behind the Emirates Riverside cricket ground. There is also a little cafe that sells food, drinks, and very nice Cappuccinos, picnic tables if you need to stop, and some seats along the riverwalk.
“Overall, a nice place to visit for all - young/old/dog walkers/mums with kids, as there is a play area for them.”
South Park
Location: South Park, Darlington, DL1 5TD
Rating: 4.5/5
A visitor wrote: “Surprisingly great park. from a nice lake, bowls club, band stands, cafes, football/ basketball courts and play parks to animal exhibits and historic russian cannons from the Crimean war, this park was surprisingly lovely and had 3x to do what other parks would offer. highly recommend for a walk out.”
Summerhill Country Park and Outdoor Activities Centre
Location: Summerhill Lane, Hartlepool, TS25 4LL
Rating: 4.5/5
This user commented: “Great free place to visit for the family. Free ample parking, easy walks on decent non muddy paths, young forests to explore, kids and bigger kids play grounds. Climbing rocks and bmx track. Toilets and cafe although only open limited times.”
Jubilee Park
Location: Jubilee Park, Spennymoor, DL16 6JJ
Rating: 4.5/5
This review said: “What a lovely park. There's so much here: bowling, planted area and trees, young and older children's play areas, skatepark, football pitch... something for all ages.”
Recommended reading:
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Witton Castle Country Park
Location: Sloshes Lane, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland, DL14 0DE
Rating: 4/5
One comment shared: “Lovely place for a walk, the grounds are kept beautifully and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Wildlife is an absolute treat. Thank you for all your hard work.”
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