Perfect places for picnics

There are so many special spots with quacking ducks, chugging boats and amazing wildlife – so where better to lay back, nibble on a sandwich, pop open a bottle and drink in the view?

It doesn’t matter where you live, even right in the heart of our towns and cities, there’s somewhere to escape to. The towpath is a world away from everyday life, hiding just out of sight, quietly winding its way through the places we live and work.

Regent's Canal, London

And as it warms up we reckon you owe it to yourself to take a fresh look. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to grab a blanket, cram a hamper full of goodies and get out there this National Picnic Week.

From those in the know

We asked our friends and followers on social media to give us their recommendations for the perfect picnic place – here are ten to get you started:

Anderton Boat Lift, Northwich

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Trevor Basin

Caen Hill Lock Flight, Devizes

Hatton Locks, Warwick

Hatton Locks, a perfect picnic spot from top to bottom

National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port

Our National Waterways Museum has seven acres of green space and historic buildings (Photo copyright PA)

Foxton Locks, Leicestershire

Marple Locks and Aqueduct near Stockport

Little Venice in London

Dundas Aqueduct near Bath

Saltaire on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Family picnic at Sowerby, Rochdale Canal

But with over 2,000 miles of waterways to explore, you might just find your own spot. And if you do, Tweet us a pic or share it on our Facebook page!

And don't forget to download your free activity sheet and map for each of our Places to visit to take with you on your picnic.

Places for picnics for you

It’s your donations and support that lets us look after the beautiful canals and rivers we have right across the country. And our dedicated teams of volunteers and community groups work with us to add their own spin, adopting their own stretches of canals and rivers.

They’re making them even more special in new and creative ways. From community gardens with picnic areas, tables and benches to fun adventure and woodland nature trails for the whole community to enjoy.

We’ve done so much work already to make sure there’s always a free, open and safe place to enjoy that's local to you.