Looking for Picnic Spots in Coventry? We Have You Covered
Canterbury is a picturesque city full of lovely picnic spots for you to relish in the summer heat. From historical landmarks to riverside gardens to parks, we know all of the best locations for you to relax and have a wholesome day out with food and drinks.
Take a look at our list below to see all the spots you must go in one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the UK. What better way to enjoy the warm weather than having a picnic whilst on your summer break from university!
Here’s the best places to lay down your blanket and take in the scenes surrounding you (in Canterbury, of course!).
1. Westgate Gardens
Westgate Gardens is located in the heart of the city beside the River Stour and the Tower House. You can immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings with tons of green spaces (11 acres to be exact) to sit down on. After taking a stroll along the riverside you can watch the boats go by and see some lovely flowers whilst enjoying some food and drinks.
It’s located not far from Canterbury West Station so its easily accessible by public transport. If you want to get some bits en-route, there is a Sainsburys only a five-minute walk away. Stock up on a meal deal or some bread and cheese to enjoy at the gardens. This place has the ultimate chill vibes, it’s just gorgeous!
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Address: St Peter’s St, Canterbury CT1 2BQ
2. Dane John Gardens
Dane John Gardens is a historic park located in the heart of Canterbury city’s walls. This place is the perfect spot for a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. You can enjoy a nice relaxing sit down on a sunny day. They also have deck chair seating available, so you don’t have to worry about packing a blanket.
The best part is, they have a café and coffeeshop onsite so you can grab any refreshments or a snack if you end up eating all your picnic! It’s for sure an ideal place for a catch up with friends and soak up the sun.
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Address: Canterbury CT1 2QS
3. Greyfriars Gardens
Not far from the gatehouse to Canterbury Cathedral and a short walk from the high street is Greyfriars Gardens. It’s a great spot to rest in after exploring the city where you can watch the boats go by on the canal or even take a boat tour if you fancy it.
Whether you’re planning a picnic with friends or by yourself, it’s a tranquil place to spend a few hours of your day. There’s a grassy area or benches available for perching yourself and enjoying the fresh air and your yummy food and drinks. Pack your favourite book with you and feel super relaxed! This place is for sure one of the best picnic spots in Canterbury.
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Address: 72 Stour St., Canterbury CT1 2NQ
4. Lady Woottons Green
Despite being small, Lady Woottons Green is a lovely garden to sit and chill or appreciate the views of St. Augustine’s Abbey and the city wall. With lots of history, greenery, flowers and benches to sit and relax it’s a cute destination for your next picnic in Canterbury.
Have a walk around and explore the history of Lady Wootton’s Palace where she lived until 1658 or view the statues of Queen Bertha and Ethelbert King. If you’re a history lover, you’ll be in your element. There are a few shops dotted around close to the gardens so you can get any picnic essentials you need in easy reach!
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Address: Lady Wootton’s Grn, Canterbury CT1 1NG
5. Abbots Mill Garden
Abbots Mill is a cute little garden in the centre of Canterbury located on the River Stour. Sit by the water and have a peaceful afternoon chatting with your mates or have a walk listening to music and let life pass you by.
You can also explore the old water mill and if you fancy it, there’s a local pub the Millers Arms located right near to grab some drinks after your picnic. The area is also being developed under the Abbots Mill project to become a great community space with a water wheel to provide renewable energy. Go and see this fab little gem for yourself!
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Address: Mill Ln, Canterbury CT1 2AD
6. Grove Ferry Picnic Site
We couldn’t not include this place it literally has picnic in its name! It’s a bit far out from Canterbury city centre but is the ideal spot if you have a car or fancy a long bike ride. It’s also accessible by public transport so don’t worry. There are tons of areas to hangout and enjoy the greenery or take a walk along the river and spot some wildlife.
Within the picnic area there are a few tables with added hot plate platforms for your throwaway BBQ or portable gas cooker – how handy is that! There’s also a selection of canoes for hire if you want to try out some water activities. Whatever you do at Grove Ferry, you’ll have a lovely day exploring the Canterbury countryside!
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Address: Grove Ferry Rd, Canterbury CT3 4BP
7. Solly’s Orchard
Solly’s Orchard is a small yet lovely riverside park close to the Marlowe Theatre. Most of the time you’ll find the park is pretty quiet due to not many people knowing it’s there – we love a hidden gem! After all, peace and quiet really makes enjoying the great outdoors with your nearest and dearest all that much better.
Bring along something to carry your picnic goodies in and enjoy a date with your pals (did someone say cheese and crackers?!). The views of the River Stour are just blissful here and its close to the Bulkhead Sculpture so you can get some insta-worthy pics. The next time you have a day off you just HAVE to go.
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Address: St Radigund’s Street, CT1 2AA
That’s the end of our post on the best picnic spots in Canterbury – which ones are you going to try out? We hope you enjoy your picnic date and fingers crossed the weather is cracking the flags for you!
You need to check out our post on helpful Tips to beat the summer heat in the UK next.
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