Regardless of the time of year, the Cotswolds are a delight to behold. However, summer really brings this gorgeous area of England to bright heights, with the sun, blooming nature, and bustling wildlife. The Cotswolds offer truly spectacular views with rolling hills, open skies, rivers, and, more importantly for the avid picnic goer, an abundance of open gardens and parks. We’ve put together some of the best picnic spots to visit in the Cotswolds this summer. Whether your picnic is a welcomed break from a walking or cycling holiday or a tailor-made picnic day with the family, these scenic spots provide the perfect surroundings to enjoy a cool drink, some food, and great company.

 Sudeley Castle:

Located in the Cotswolds, near Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle’s extensive grounds are steeped in English history. Once the home of Queen Katherine Parr, this culturally rich location is perfect for a day wandering the nine individual gardens that four of England’s queens would have walked. Once hunger strikes, you can make your way to the Adventure Playground, where picnic benches have been placed against the backdrop of the rolling Cotswold hills. A perfect family location, children can take themselves off to the adventure trail, with swings, obstacle courses, and refreshments.

Lower Slaughter:

An impossibly pretty village, Lower Slaughter is the perfect location for a picnic. Walk along the river Eye and you’ll be spoilt for choice along the grassy banks. With a backdrop of gorgeous stone footpaths and old watermills, the tranquility will have you enjoying a relaxing summer day in the Cotswolds.

Hidcote Manor Garden:

Lawrence Johnson’s world-famous garden is now maintained by the National Trust and open for the public to enjoy. With multiple outdoor ‘rooms’ to choose from, this spectacular garden is a picnic and nature lover’s dream. In the summer, the intoxicating sights and smells offer delightful surroundings to enjoy a bite to eat.

Blenheim Palace Park:

With 2000 acres of parkland and formal gardens to choose from, Blenheim Park will have you spoilt for choice. This is the perfect location for those of you who like a long walk, to work up to your lunch. With such vast and beautiful surroundings, not to mention the stunning historical palace, this really is a fantastic Cotswold picnic spot.

River Windrush:

Running through the quintessentially English town of Bourton-on-the-water, this area offers charming locations to set up a picnic along the river. Named the ‘Little Venice’ of the Cotswolds, the gorgeous low bridges and stone cottages really do add a touch of romance to the surroundings. After you’ve had a bite to eat, there are also a number of tourist attractions to explore, from the Model Village to Birdland Park & Gardens.

If you want to add a bit of luxury to your picnic or would like to take all of the stress out of preparing food and snacks, why not indulge in a ready-made picnic hamper? Picnic hampers are made to order and allow you to spend an amazing day in the Cotswolds without having to lift a finger. From smoked trout pate to English scones and clotted cream, luxury hampers are a delicious addition to your summer picnic.