Best West Sussex Picnic spots

An oasis in the heart of the city. You’ll be forgiven if you’ve yet to discover Bishops Palace Gardens located beside the cathedral – beautifully maintained walled gardens with fabulous Cathedral views and plenty of space for picnicking.

Picnic treats nearby: Luckes for delicious juices or Shake-a-Delic dessert bar for milkshakes

Bosham Quay combines excellent people watching opportunities with a truly picturesque location, situated a stone’s throw from Bosham’s Holy Trinity Church which has fascinating historical significance.

Picnic treats nearby: Bosham Sweets and Ice Cream is a must-visit!

Black Down is the highest point in the South Downs National Park, though the walk here once you’ve parked your car isn’t too steep, so fine for smaller children to tackle. There’s plenty of places to spread out your picnic rug here, and in the height of summer you’ll be surrounded the sight of blooming heather. Will you spot dragonflies darting around? Keep your eyes out for the herd of Galloway cattle which graze here, too.

Picnic treats nearby: Dylan’s Ice Cream, Haslemere

Whether you choose to picnic amid the ancient yew trees or climb up to enjoy panoramic views with your picnic, this is an epic picnic spot.

Picnic treats nearby: Coop's Coffee van is usually located in the West Stoke Car Park, or drop into The Vale Café & Wellness Studio just a few minutes away for a refreshing cold drink.

One of the RSPB’s wild and wonderful nature reserves, you’ll feel a world away from the daily grind at Medmerry. There are several different car parks, or you can catch the bus here too (number 51). The walk to the giant periwinkle is great for families – spot wildlife as you walk, then you can picnic near the shell itself, enjoying the bracing sea views.

Picnic treats nearby: Medmerry Nature Reserve is very rural but a short distance away is Berries on Tap where in the summer you can experience the freshest fruit.

You can choose a variety of spots for your picnic depending on whether you’re visiting the Petworth House and pleasure grounds, or just exploring the park: lake views, under ancient trees or in the beautifully planted pleasure grounds. In the park, explore far enough to spot the herd of fallow deer, marvel at the incredible ancient trees with their twisted trunks, and watch the resident birdlife on the lakes.

Picnic treats nearby: wander into pretty Petworth for ice cream or delicious treat from Cherry’s Deli.

This ever-popular museum is a fantastic family day out, and you can even bring your dog. Picnickers are welcomed, with benches dotted around the 40 acre site – check the map for details.
Picnic treats nearby: a takeaway hot chocolate (reusable cups at the ready!) go down a treat, as do the ice creams – in summer months you can find these at the Shepherd’s huts as well as the café itself.

Reopening in summer 2025 after a programme of maintenance works, the National Trust’s Uppark House & Gardens will now open its grounds free of charge to visitors, making it an ideal picnic stop. Children will love exploring the open spaces and pretty gardens, while grown-ups can sit and admire the picturesque views to the south downs countryside and beyond to the sea.
Picnic treats nearby: you can access the café free of charge, too – perfect for treating yourselves to ice creams and cakes.