Our guide to the best parks in London and why they are the best picnic spots for both families and couples.

Nothing says summer in London like a picnic in the park. At Park Plaza, we’ve created a seasonal picnic package and a handy guide to the best picnic spots across the city, so you can enjoy a hassle-free day out—whether you’re visiting with the family during the school holidays or planning something a little more romantic.

Just grab your hamper, pick your favourite park (or let us help you choose), and enjoy fresh, chef-prepared picnic bites in some of London’s most beautiful green spaces. With Park Plaza Picnics, every moment is made to be memorable. Check out our top 5 favourite parks below, or seek out your own favourite with our handy map to London’s best parks.

1. Jubilee Gardens

Just a short stroll from Park Plaza County Hall and Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, Jubilee Gardens is a hidden gem for a summer picnic in central London. Nestled along the South Bank, this riverside park offers lush green lawns, a modern playground for kids, and unbeatable views of the London Eye and Big Ben.

Whether you’re planning a family picnic during your school holiday visit to London or a romantic afternoon, Jubilee Gardens is the perfect spot to lay down a blanket, unpack your freshly prepared picnic, and soak in the sights of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Bonus Tip: Time your visit for sunset to see the London Eye glow against the evening sky – ideal for couples looking for a romantic moment.

2. Regents Park

If you’re looking to explore beyond the South Bank, Regent’s Park is a fantastic choice for a relaxed picnic. Just a short Tube ride away, this spacious park is easy to reach from Regent’s Park or Baker Street Station on the Bakerloo line.

Find a sunny spot near the boating lake, where you can watch the boats glide by as you enjoy your picnic. After lunch, take a stroll through the ornamental gardens, which are especially beautiful in summer, particularly Queen Mary’s Rose Garden. It’s a great way to unwind, whether you’re with the kids or enjoying a quiet afternoon with someone special.

Bonus Tip: For families the nearby London Zoo makes it easy to turn your picnic into a full day of adventure.

3. St James Park

For a truly British picnic experience, St James’s Park is hard to beat. Just a short journey from your most Park Plaza hotels, this historic park sits right in the heart of ceremonial London, with Buckingham Palace as its stunning backdrop.

We recommend setting up near the Blue Bridge, where you’ll get postcard-perfect views of the lake, the palace, and even glimpses of Horse Guards Parade. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a delicious freshly prepared picnic.

Kids will no doubt enjoy spotting ducks and pelicans and even those famous black swans by the water, while you soak up the atmosphere of one of London’s most iconic green spaces.

Bonus tip: Time your visit for the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace -just a short walk away – for a truly memorable London moment before or after your picnic.

4. Hyde Park

With over 350 acres to explore, Hyde Park is one of London’s most iconic green spaces and a brilliant choice for a summer picnic. If you’re staying at one of our Park Plaza London hotels, it’s just a short journey away and offers plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the sunshine.

We recommend heading to the Serpentine Lake, where you can lay out your Park Plaza picnic and watch paddle boats drift by and swans glide across the water. It’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the busy city streets.

Bonus tip: After lunch, take the kids to the nearby Diana Memorial Playground or rent a pedal boat for a fun way to explore the lake. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re planning a relaxed afternoon or a full day out.

5. Battersea Park

Just down the river from Park Plaza London Riverbank, Battersea Park is a local favourite that offers a more relaxed, laid-back vibe – perfect for a summer picnic. You can even enjoy a scenic riverside walk from the hotel to the park, passing some of London’s most iconic views along the way.

For a peaceful setting surrounded by flowers, head to the Old English Garden a truly hidden gem that feels like a secret escape in the city. Or, if you’re visiting with family and want space to run and play, the Great Lawn is ideal for spreading out your Park Plaza picnic and soaking up the sun.

Bonus tip: Don’t miss the children’s zoo and adventure playground – great for keeping little ones entertained after lunch, while couples might enjoy a quiet stroll along the riverside promenade or a visit to the Peace Pagoda.

Park Plaza Picnics

We are so passionate about the London Parks, we have put together a handy map to help you navigate to your favourites – there are more London Parks listed in the map below too – so you can go discover the rest for yourself.

Our picnic packages are available from Park Plaza County Hall, Park Plaza London Riverbank and Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge. Each with bespoke menus, branded baskets and blankets included. Ask our hotel concierge team for more details.