Top 5 picnic spots for you to try

Throw down a blanket and picnic together this summer.

Fill your basket full of yummy treats and venture into Mid Devon’s countryside for a fun day out. Discover new places close-by, whether you’re sharing it with friends or family, you can easily find a spot by the water or overlooking a stunning view.

Here are some options for you to try:

1: The Grand Western Canal Country Park and Nature Reserve

Stretching 11 miles, there are lots of picnic benches along the way to enjoy a relaxing stop. However, Tiverton basin, can entertain the whole family during your visit. Firstly, public toilets are on site which is handy if you are planning to stay a while.

There is no cost (other than parking) to enjoy the facilities. There is a children’s play area to burn off some energy and the option to go for a cycle, walk, row or canoe. Discover the visitor centre and wildlife, from feeding the ducks (a family favourite), to the swans (and depending on the time of year, their signets). The Horse-drawn barge is captivating, watching the stunning shire horses pull one of the last horse-drawn barges in the country is a must. If you forget any bits for your picnic don’t worry, there are a couple cafes in the area.

GWC basin – image by Phil Brind

2: Eggesford Forest

Managed by the Forestry Commission, Eggesford Forest is an ideal centre for short walks, fishing and mountain-biking. With a dog friendly circular walk you can enjoy a picnic spot with your four legged friend.  There is plenty of wildlife and unusual wildflowers as well as an ancient Motte and Bailey castle to discover. You can build up an appetite before finding the perfect spot under a tree for a picnic.

3: Shobrook Park

The vast space is perfect for stretching your legs in a peaceful setting, making it a relaxing place to set-up a picnic. The park boasts a magnificent lake, woodland and fabulous views with some wildlife to spot along the way. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you. Parking is limited but don’t let that put you off trying this spot. In the spring, Shobrooke Park Garden opens to visitors sharing the extended grounds and varied flowers.

Shobrooke Park taken by CreditonLass

4: Knightshayes Court

Home to an impressive 19th century house set within acres of parkland to explore, this National Trust gem is perfect for the whole family with room to roam with summer outdoor games / trails to discover.  There are a number of walks around the estate of which the Impey trail is a family favourite. Enjoy your picnic on the stable lawn overlooking the rolling hills or in the woodland garden around the flora. There are lots of options to roll out the blanket here. If you forget anything don’t worry, there is a café onsite and toilet facilities within the stable yard. 

5. Killerton

Our final spot, another National Trust property with stunning grounds. Venture into immaculate gardens, enjoy the picnic benches in the orchard or next to the play areas. You can easily soak up the scenery around with the distant views of Dartmoor and farmland which surrounds the estate. Kids can roll down the hill on the lawn or if you fancy a quiet spot for lunch and some history, head towards Columbjohn Chapel – it’s idyllic. Killerton also has seasonal family activities around the grounds, a café and toilets onsite if you need extra facilities during your visit.

Dining al fresco this summer? To fill your picnic baskets with the best local produce around please head over to our Farm shop and Farmers’ market trail for inspiration. If you are looking for gluten free options visit or place an order with Gluten Escapes for homemade bread, pastries and sweet treats.

***Please do not bring any barbecues or leave any rubbish at our picnic spots***