Looking for a peaceful spot to settle down for a picnic in County Durham?

We have put together a guide on some of the best places to enjoy your favourite foods outdoors.

From sunset views on the top of a mountain to riverside locations ideal for a paddle after a feast, here are some of the best picnic spots in County Durham.

Five of the best picnic spots to enjoy in County Durham:

Riverside Park

Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street

Created in the 1930s, Riverside Park has always been popular with visitors. It was redeveloped in the 1990s and now includes artist-designed ornamental gardens, an events arena, a play area and a park centre with a café and toilets.

It's popular because it has something for all of the family to do - with people online saying that you can spend a whole day here in the sun. 

One person who rated it highly on TripAdvisor said: "There is so much for kids to do here from the various parks, sports field, river and water park. You Could spend a day with a picnic here. It's very popular with families."

High Force Waterfall

High Force is one of the most impressive waterfalls across the region - and has an equally impressive history - which shows that High Force dates back 300 million years. 

High Force Waterfall is based in the North Pennines an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

There are plenty of walking routes to High Force, and not forgetting the cherry on top of the cake, is the waterfall. 

The only downside for this place as a picnic spot is that admission prices start from £1.50 for a child and £3.00 for an adult with under 4s going free.

But those ranking it online say it's worth the price - with one person saying on TripAdvisor: "Take a picnic and good walking shoes - it's stunning here - a must visit."

Broken Scar Picnic Area

Broken Scar is a small park situated on the bank of the River Tees. There is parking on site along with a play area for children to enjoy and burn off some energy and also some benches to enjoy a picnic.

This is another place next to the water where people can enjoy a walk before having a picnic. 

And from the reviews, it's clear to see that people love this place as a picnic spot. 

One person said on TripAdvisor: "This is an area I visit a lot love the river around this area great for walking riding a bike or just having a picnic in the small park at the top. If you are lucky you may spot lots of wildlife in the area. Otters have returned kingfishers and herons to name but a few."

Hardwick Park

Sedgefield

Hardwick Park is an 18th-century Grade II listed site with many historical features to discover.

With free admission (other than car parking charges), you can stroll through the historic parkland admiring the natural beauty of the lake, woodland and wildlife.

This place is for all the family, with many people saying that they favour a picnic at this spot. 

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One TripAdvisor review said: "Having drove past the entrance for years and never visiting, I have had my first experience of Hardwick Park today and can't believe I've been missing out on this beautiful place! The park is huge! I don't know how huge as there were a few paths we didn't go down, and we still walked quite a distance around here."

Demesne Mill Picnic Area

31 St. Annes Drive, Wolsingham

Compared to the others so far, it's perhaps a lesser-known location - but one that people rank highly. 

With a parking place and opportunities to walk next to the water - it's a picturesque little spot. 

There are picnic benches for people to enjoy a picnic with a view. 

One person who has been, and rated it highly on TripAdvisor said: "A pleasant area for a gentle stroll around by the water, with access to longer, more adventurous walks from the site. The picnic area itself is quite sheltered."