Six of the best picnic-perfect parks in the East Midlands

The East Midlands boasts some of the most beautiful green spaces, making it hard to choose the perfect location for a sunny Saturday stroll.

While the region is home to well-known spots like the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire’s Peak District and Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in our local communities.

To celebrate Love Parks Week (24 July to 2 August), we wanted to share six of our favourite parks in and around Derby and Nottingham to inspire a visit - and maybe a picnic!

Wollaton Hall Deer Park and Gardens

Most famous for its Elizabethan mansion that was once called home by industrialists, barons and even Batman(!), Wollaton Park offers 500 acres of stunning green scenery, a vast lake, and exciting trails for all the family to enjoy.

Be sure to be on the lookout for some of the 200 deer that roam the grounds as you set up your picnic on the lawn or by the lake. Grab your snacks on the way from our Wollaton store only a 5-minute drive away. Our team recommends a chicken salad bowl.

Darley Park

Gifted to Derby residents in 1929, Darley Park is a serene public space along the River Derwent. Here, you’ll find kingfishers, barn owls, and you may even spot an otter or two! Take a walk through the wildlife gardens that are home to a beautiful collection of butterflies or sit in one of the few bars and restaurants overlooking the weir.

The best way to spend the day is with a well-stocked picnic basket, filled with all your favourite Birds treats. We recommend a cinnamon bun from our Allestree, Park Farm store, just a 4-minute drive away.

Rushcliffe Country Park

Named the best budget and family-friendly picnic spot in the country in 2023, Rushcliffe Country Park offers over 200 acres of land to explore. With a play area, skatepark, and BMX park, there's plenty to keep children of all ages entertained.

Set up your picnic in one of the many open spaces that are perfect for group get-togethers. Our choice of snack would be a sausage roll, hot or cold, perfect for an on-the-go activity day. Stop by our Clifton, Southchurch Drive store on the way, only an 8-minute drive.

Gedling Country Park

Redesigned in 2014, Gedling Country Park features new footpaths, a children’s play area with a zip wire and tower slide, a buzzing bee garden, and a nature trail with animal carvings along the way. Spanning 240 acres, the park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Nottinghamshire countryside and even the city of Nottingham on clear days.

There are several running and cycling routes that cater to different levels of ability. Or if you fancy taking things a little easier, we recommend enjoying the views with a locally roasted coffee from our Mapperley store on Plains Road, only a 7-minute drive away.

Abbey Park

Located along the River Soar in Leicester, Abbey Park is an 89-acre park offering a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park features sports facilities, including tennis courts and a bowling green, a children’s play area, and a charming mini railway suitable for children and big kids alike.

Visit the small animal corner, where you’ll find birds, hens, rabbits, and goats, or explore the historic ruins of the 12th-century Leicester Abbey and the 17th-century Cavendish House. Whichever activity you decide, its best enjoyed with a Belgian chocolate mouse. Stop by our Anstey shop only a 13-minute drive away to stock up for the day.

Shipley Country Park

Located near Heanor, Shipley Country Park is a beautiful natural landscape perfect for walks, picnics, and the ideal location for activities such as bird watching, horse riding, cycling, and fishing.

Home to the former manor, Shipley Estate, which once was owned by William the Conqueror’s nephew, the park is rich in history. With land spanning over 700 acres, including lakes, woodlands, and hills, you won’t be stuck for the perfect picnic location. Our Heanor store is only 5-minute drive away, we recommend our sausage cob and a meal deal if you’re out for the day.