Dust off a wicker basket, grab a blanket and pack up your scotch eggs! Summer is well and truly here, so what better time to get out in nature and enjoy a long-awaited al fresco lunch.
Here in North Wales, we're fortunate to have an abundance of idyllic picnic spots right on our doorstep. Whether you're planning a family outing to the beach or seeking a romantic retreat for a peaceful glass (or two!) of fizz, we've collated some of our favourite spots to inspire you to make the most of all that spring brings—complete with insider tips on where to seek out the most delicious local produce to pack in your hamper.
Where to go
Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens, Anglesey
For dazzling natural beauty and stately surroundings in equal measure, lose yourself in Plas Cadnant’s Hidden Gardens. Step into this rich, colourful world and meander along the historic garden paths to find your picture-perfect picnic spot. If you’d prefer, however, to sample some of the best vegan and vegetarian food in North Wales, the Green Olive in nearby Menai Bridge should be on your radar. You’ll be reminiscing over their fresh salads, sandwiches, coffees and cakes long after your visit.
Our serene Ysgubor Wennol cottage is also just a short journey away from Menai Bridge, giving you a peaceful hideaway to curl up in after a day of exploring.
Ynys Llanddwyn, Anglesey
If you’re looking for lunch with a truly one-of-a-kind view, set your compass for Ynys Llanddwyn, a tidal island that’s home to the ruins of St Dwynwen's Church, a lighthouse with spectacular views of Eryri (Snowdonia). We’d recommend strolling up to the Twr Mawr lighthouse for a picnic like no other, and if you don’t mind a gentle summer evening’s breeze, it’s especially magical at sunset.
After a day out at Llanddwyn, you can take a scenic walk back to our stylish Cae Coch hideaway, where a garden pizza oven awaits to satisfy those late-night cravings.
Porthdinllaen, Llŷn Peninsula
Don’t really feel like cooking? Why not stop off for a bite at the Tŷ Coch Inn, Porthdinllaen - a historic fisherman’s pub (with a gorgeous outdoor space to match) on the Llŷn Peninsula. After lunch, you could dip your toes in the water or set off on a leisurely stroll to explore the beautiful and wildlife rich Llŷn coastline. Or if you’d prefer, simply sit back and soak up the breathtaking views.
After a relaxing afternoon out on the beach, you and the family can brush the sand off your toes and wander back to our Gwynt Y Mor holiday cottage, where you can enjoy a relaxing evening under the Welsh stars.
What to pack
North Wales offers some of the UK's most delectable local produce—perfect for filling up your picnic basket. Here are our favourite spots to grab the essentials:
- Hooton's Homegrown Farm Shop
- Found in the small village of Brynsiencyn, Hooton's Homegrown Farm Shop is famous for its homegrown and homemade produce. Fresh bread, seasonal fruit or traditional Welsh-made jams and chutneys… You’ll find a plethora of the finest local fare here.
- Central Bakery
- Specialising in artisan breads, homemade pies and traditional pasties, Central Bakery in Beaumaris has been serving up some of the best bakes that Anglesey has to offer since 1892. It’s well worth stopping by this hidden gem if you’re in the area - after all, what’s a picnic without some delicious baked treats? Some of our favourite treats include cream cakes, homemade sausage rolls, and freshly baked sourdough – but anything you sample from this Beaumaris staple is likely to be delicious.
- Jaspels Fine Cider Makers
Looking for a tipple to tie the bow on top of your picnic basket? Jaspels Fine Cider Makers in Aberffraw sell some of the best boutique ciders in Wales. The cidery even has its own outdoor area which overlooks the mountains of Eryri – a wonderful place to while away sunshine hours.
If you’ve been inspired, explore our spaces for summer here.
