Picnic season is here in all its sun soaked glory and with the unpredictable UK weather we have put together a list of great last minute picnic date spots for you to enjoy.
Although Merseyside has attractive urban areas such as the shopping centres, it also offers amazing rural viewpoints, which make special spots for al fresco dining.
Picnics in the sun are perfect and affordable ways to enjoy the summer days with friends, dates and family.
Whether you live in Merseyside or you’re thinking of visiting the area, you must add these locations to your outdoor dining hit list. We’re going to start on the Wirral, which is home to some of the region’s most spectacular and aesthetically pleasing coastlines.
Thurstaston Beach, Wirral
This is a real hidden gem, which boasts a beautiful beach, just off the beaten track beach and a peaceful woodland area, with great walking routes and cliff top viewpoints.
You can lay down your picnic blanket on top of the hill and enjoy looking out at the beach below.
To get to the cliff area, drive to the bottom of Station Road and turn left right past the caravans and park by the sailing club. Bus routes are also available.
Caldy Woods, Wirral
Not only is this forest perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal and soaking up some sun, it’s also great for taking long wandering walks and discovering secret spots.
If you want to be surrounded by trees and nature as well as the sea, then Caldy Woods is a must visit. Take a camera – this spot really does have some of the most spectacular scenery on offer in the region.
Another hidden gem. Check out Kingsway Drive on maps and also see bus routes from West Kirby to Heswall via Caldy.
West Kirby Beach
If you’re visiting the Wirral Peninsula you will do well making a pit stop in West Kirby. Great place to grab a coffee or supplies, as well as being a great picnic area in itself.
The beach is perhaps best known for its walk to Hilbre Island and the numerous activities Marine Lake offers such as rowing and sailing.
The easiest way to get to the beach is by driving to the south parade, but it is also accessible by train or bus.
Sefton Park, Liverpool
Back over in the city, this 200-acre park is classified as a Grade One listed sire by English Heritage. You will find plenty of people enjoying picnics. But its also where many charity walks and festivals are held.
Taking a walk by the lake and visiting its cafes is definitely recommended.
You can get a bus to Lark Lane and walk to the park, driving is also possible, although the roads can be busy in that area of the park and it can be tricky to find parking spots.
Crosby Beach, Crosby
One of the beach’s main attractions are The Iron Men statues that were first installed in 2005, created by the sculptor Sir Anthony Gormley.
Did you know… Liverpool were supposed to send them on somewhere else – but we just ended up keeping them.
It’s a great place to lay your picnic blanket down across the sand dunes – looking out to the sea, the Wirral and North Wales.
To get to the beach you can get the train/bus to South Road in Waterloo and walk through the park leading you straight to the sand dunes.
Everton Park, Liverpool
If you want a place to eat with friends that has an amazing view of the city, Everton Park is the best for you, especially during sunset or sunrise.
The historic sight is most popular amongst young people and dog walkers and of course the Everton F.C. fans as the park is home to the tower, which is the emblem of the famous football team.
The park is located on Heyworth street.
River Dee, Chester
Technically, Chester isn’t part of Merseyside, however, it is only a 30 minutes drive from the Wirral and the River Dee is well worth a day out.
The river is 70 miles long and stretches through Wales and Chester, so there are plenty of spaces for picnics and walks.
One picturesque and relaxed route to get to the river is through Eccleston village, and it’s closer to the Wirral – if you fancied hitting two of these spots in a day.
If the weather is extra hot, it’s also great for swimming and paddle boarding.
Hesketh Park, Southport
If you’re planning a family day out, picnicking in one of the largest parks in Southport is a great place to start.
The Victorian Park has a beautiful garden and ornate fountains, which have been restored. Also, there are numerous nature trails, varied wildlife, a large lake, and a children’s play area.
It is located by Park Cres, Brentwood Ct.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this list of al fresco dining hot spots. Have we missed your favourite out? Please add it in the comments below or let us know on social media.