Top Picnic Spots in Essex: Where We Love to Unwind Outdoors
When we're not showing people around our houses for sale in Essex, we’re often out enjoying the fresh air and open spaces that make this part of England such a great place to live. One of our favourite ways to make the most of it is to pack a lunch, grab a blanket, and head to one of the many brilliant picnic spots across the county.
We’ve explored them all—quiet woodlands, riverside meadows, and family-friendly parks. While there’s plenty of choice depending on your mood, we do have a few personal favourites:
- Thorndon Country Park, just minutes from Aquilla Row, is ideal when we want something close to home with walking trails and lots of space to spread out. < https://www.explore-essex.com/ places-to-go/find-whats-near-me/thorndon-country-park>
- Cudmore Grove Country Park on Mersea Island is our go-to for a seaside escape, especially on a sunny day. < https://visitmerseaisland.co.uk/cudmore-grove-country-park/>
- Audley End House and Gardens, with its beautiful grounds and peaceful setting, is our top pick when we’re looking for somewhere with a bit of history and elegance. < https://www.english-heritage. org.uk/visit/places/audley-end-house-and-gardens/>
We’ve put together a full list of recommended picnic locations below. All of them are within easy reach from Brentwood and are great options for weekends, half terms, or impromptu outdoor lunches when the weather’s on your side. Whether you're looking for coastal views, historic gardens, or tranquil woodlands, there's a spot for every preference. Here are some top picnic spots in Essex:
Thorndon Country Park, Brentwood
Located in Brentwood, Thorndon Country Park spans over 500 acres of woodlands and open parkland. The park features designated picnic areas equipped with tables and benches, making it ideal for family outings. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a visitor centre, and play areas for children.
Weald Country Park, Brentwood
Also in Brentwood, Weald Country Park covers 520 acres of meadows, woodlands, and lakes. It's a popular spot for picnics, with ample space and facilities including a café and play areas. The park is home to deer and offers various walking trails.
Danbury Country Park, Chelmsford
Situated near Chelmsford, Danbury Country Park offers lakes, woodlands, and open lawns suitable for picnicking. The park provides accessible paths, making it convenient for visitors of all ages.
Cudmore Grove Country Park, Mersea Island
On Mersea Island, Cudmore Grove Country Park features grasslands, a beach, and views across the Blackwater Estuary.It's an excellent location for seaside picnics, with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring coastal trails.
Hatfield Forest, Bishop’s Stortford
Managed by the National Trust, Hatfield Forest is a historic woodland area offering open spaces and shaded spots for picnics. The forest includes walking paths, a lake, and diverse wildlife, providing a peaceful setting for outdoor meals.
Promenade Park, Maldon
Located in Maldon, Promenade Park is a Victorian-era park featuring riverside walks, ornamental gardens, and dedicated picnic areas. Facilities include a splash park and playgrounds, making it suitable for family visits.
Belhus Woods Country Park, South Ockendon
Situated in South Ockendon, Belhus Woods Country Park features woodlands, lakes, and open spaces ideal for picnicking. The park includes a musical-themed play area and walking trails, providing a relaxing environment for visitors.
Dedham Vale, Dedham
Dedham Vale, in a National Landscape, offers picturesque landscapes along the River Stour. The area provides scenic spots for picnics, with opportunities for walking and enjoying the countryside.
Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park, Colchester
Near Colchester, Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park offers waterside views and picnic areas. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and includes walking trails and a visitor centre.
Cressing Temple Barns, Braintree Cressing Temple Barns, located near Braintree, features historic barns and landscaped gardens suitable for picnicking.The site provides a tranquil setting with opportunities to explore the heritage of the area.
Epping Forest, Loughton
Epping Forest spans across Essex and offers numerous spots for picnics amidst ancient woodlands. The forest includes walking and cycling trails, providing a natural escape for visitors.
Gosfield Sandpits, Braintree Gosfield Sandpits is a local nature reserve featuring woodlands, ponds, and open glades. The area offers peaceful spots for picnicking and observing local wildlife.
Aubrey Buxton Nature Reserve, Elsenham Aubrey Buxton Nature Reserve near Elsenham encompasses woodlands and meadows, providing a quiet location for picnics. The reserve is managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust and offers opportunities for nature observation.
Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Stanford-le-Hope
Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, located in Stanford-le-Hope, features grasslands, woodlands, and views over the Thames Estuary. The park includes picnic areas and walking trails, making it suitable for outdoor dining and exploration.
When planning a picnic in Essex, consider checking the weather forecast and park facilities in advance. Remember to take your litter home and respect the natural environment to ensure these beautiful spots remain enjoyable for all visitors.
Living at Aquilla Row means you’re never far from green space. Whether it’s a morning dog walk at Warley Place, a Sunday afternoon at Thorndon, or a day trip to the coast, you’re spoilt for choice. That’s one of the many reasons our residents enjoy the lifestyle in Brentwood, Essex. There’s room to breathe, time to unwind, and plenty of space to spend time with friends and family.
If you're seeking a new home for sale in Brentwood and looking for the kind of area that offers both town convenience and countryside charm, Aquilla Row might be just what you're looking for. And with so many places like these nearby, you’ll always have somewhere to go when you want a change of scenery and some time outdoors.
To find out more about our new houses for sale or to book a personal viewing, please get in touch today.