London’s Best Outdoor Lunch Spots: Where to Enjoy a Packed Picnic

London is renowned for its abundant green spaces, but there’s more to the city’s outdoor dining scene than just parks. Whether you’re looking for a park bench, a riverside spot, or a secluded courtyard, London offers numerous perfect places to enjoy a packed picnic. Whether you’re grabbing lunch during a break or you’re looking to make the most of a leisurely afternoon, these spots provide a scenic setting for a relaxed meal. From the lush greenery of its parks to charming, less traditional picnic spots, here are some of the best places in London to enjoy your homemade lunch outdoors.

Southbank Centre: Riverside Dining with a View

For an urban outdoor lunch spot, head to the Southbank Centre. Located along the River Thames, this area offers a beautiful riverside setting with stunning views of iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben. The Southbank is home to a vibrant mix of art venues, restaurants, and open spaces, making it an ideal location for a lunch break that combines culture and scenic beauty.

Find a spot along the river’s edge to enjoy your packed lunch while watching the boats glide by, or take a seat on one of the benches near the famous skate park. If you’re looking to extend your time outdoors, the Southbank offers plenty of opportunities to stretch out your lunch and relax. You could bring along a book to read or, if you prefer digital entertainment, a device to play video games or even enjoy some online casino gaming. Online casinos are growing increasingly popular in the UK and globally, with many bettors now opting to play from home or on the go rather than visit a physical casino. Many bettors visit non GamStop Curacao casinos instead of domestic platforms because these international options are known to offer flexibility, large bonuses, and huge game libraries to bettors. Whether you prefer to read a book, play a quick game online or simply sit back and relax, this location is ideal for a packed picnic lunch in London.

Covent Garden: A Bustling Urban Picnic

If you want a bit of hustle and bustle with your outdoor meal, Covent Garden is a vibrant spot that combines dining with entertainment. While not a traditional park, the area has plenty of public seating, especially in its charming piazza. Covent Garden is known for its street performers, boutique shops, and open-air dining areas, making it an exciting place to enjoy your packed lunch.

You can sit in the open courtyard and watch the performers while you eat, or wander around the quaint streets that surround the square. If you’re after a more peaceful spot, there are a few quiet seating areas tucked away in nearby alleyways. Covent Garden is perfect for a picnic if you want a more lively, urban experience while enjoying your lunch.

Regent’s Canal: A Scenic Waterside Retreat

For those who want to enjoy their lunch by the water, Regent’s Canal offers a peaceful riverside alternative with an interesting history. The canal stretches across the city and passes through areas such as Camden and Islington, providing tranquil, waterside spots perfect for a packed lunch. There’s something uniquely relaxing about sitting along the canal, watching boats glide by and taking in the surrounding greenery.

Find a quiet bench along the canal or bring a blanket to sit on the grass and enjoy the views. Regent’s Canal is especially popular among walkers and cyclists, making it a great choice for a relaxed yet active afternoon. After your picnic, you can take a stroll along the towpath or explore the local markets and cafés in Camden.

Leadenhall Market: A Hidden Gem for a Lunch Break

If you’re looking for a more unique and historical spot to enjoy your packed lunch, Leadenhall Market is an excellent choice. Tucked away in the heart of the City of London, this ornate Victorian market offers a vibrant, covered space with striking architecture. The market’s cobbled streets are home to shops, cafés, and pubs, and while you’re not likely to find open lawns, the covered sections provide a sheltered spot for lunch, rain or shine.

Leadenhall Market has an intimate, old-world charm, with plenty of seating options surrounded by beautiful buildings and winding alleys. It’s also a great place to sit and people-watch while enjoying your meal. The atmosphere here is quieter compared to other, more tourist-heavy locations, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and historic setting.

Borough Market: A Food Lover’s Picnic Spot

Borough Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering a wide range of fresh produce, street food, and artisanal goods. While many come here to shop, it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy your packed lunch, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of one of London’s best-known food markets. Located near London Bridge, Borough Market has plenty of seating options and public spaces to sit and enjoy your meal.

Pick up a fresh loaf of bread, some cheeses, or freshly prepared food from the market stalls to complement your packed lunch. The nearby areas, such as the riverside and nearby parks, also offer a more scenic setting for a post-lunch stroll. Borough Market’s energy, combined with its culinary delights, makes it an exciting and flavourful spot to enjoy your lunch.

Hampstead Heath: A Natural Retreat in the City

For those looking for a more natural, expansive picnic location, Hampstead Heath is a perfect option. Known for its wild beauty, this vast green space offers sweeping views of the London skyline and plenty of quiet areas to escape the city. Spread out your blanket on the open meadows, by the ponds, or beneath the trees, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.

Hampstead Heath also provides plenty of opportunities for post-picnic activities. Take a walk to the top of Parliament Hill for spectacular views of London or enjoy a swim in the ponds. The Heath’s natural beauty makes it one of the best places to enjoy a leisurely picnic in the city.