There’s no better place to roll out your picnic blanket when the sun's out than beautiful Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
It's the beating heart of the country and home to sparkling lakes, hidden woodlands, rolling countryside and unforgettable family adventures.
This summer, Staffy is leading the way on a county-wide picnic quest, sniffing out the very best places to relax, explore and make magical memories outdoors.
So, pack the sandwiches, grab your favourite snacks and follow Staffy’s lead to some of Staffordshire’s most scenic picnic spots!
Great Picnic Spots in Staffordshire
1. The Trentham Estate
With its sparkling lake, colourful gardens and endless space to explore, Trentham Estate near Stoke-on-Trent, is one of Staffordshire’s most loved picnic destinations — and Staffy can’t get enough of it!
Find the perfect picnic spot beside the water, wander through the award-winning gardens and keep your eyes peeled for the famous fairy sculptures hidden among the trees.
Little explorers will also love the Adventure Play Area and discovering surprises around every corner.
Staffy’s Top Picnic Tip : Bring a camera and a few extra snacks!
The lakeside views are pawsome for family photos, and there are so many peaceful little corners you’ll want to stay longer than planned.
From the Italian Gardens to the Adventure Play Area, Trentham is the perfect spot for families to relax while the kids climb, swing and burn off energy outdoors.
Image: Ella Jones
2. National Memorial Arboretum
For a calmer and more reflective day outdoors, Staffy suggests a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum.
With beautifully maintained gardens, riverside walks and colourful seasonal displays, it’s a wonderful place to pause, unwind and enjoy quality time together in nature.
Staffy’s Recommendation : Pick a shady spot beneath the trees and take time to simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before exploring the memorials and family-friendly walking routes.
It’s a place that leaves visitors feeling refreshed, thoughtful and connected.
3. Tittesworth Water
Surrounded by the stunning Staffordshire Moorlands and overlooked by The Roaches, Tittesworth Water is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, breathe deeply and stay all afternoon.
Spread out your picnic blanket beside the shimmering water, enjoy peaceful walks and watch the clouds drift across the hills while the kids burn off energy exploring the wide-open spaces.
Staffy’s Hidden Gem Recommendation : Walk a little further along the quieter lakeside paths to discover peaceful picnic spots with amazing countryside views away from the busiest areas.
Families can also enjoy the outdoor play area, where little explorers can climb, play and enjoy even more adventure after their picnic.
And after all that adventuring? Staffy highly recommends rewarding yourself with a well-earned ice cream from the visitor centre!
Image: Tilly Grocott
4. Shugborough Estate
With beautiful parkland, riverside walks and plenty of open space, Shugborough Estate is a wonderful place for a relaxing family picnic.
Families can wander through beautiful grounds, spot wildlife along the trails and find a quiet picnic spot surrounded by nature.
Staffy’s top tip : Pack a picnic blanket and make a day full of it! Staffy recommends exploring the estate’s scenic walking trails first before relaxing with lunch in the open parkland while kids run, play and enjoy the fresh air.
Image: Jana Eastwood
5. Biddulph Grange Garden
Looking for something a little different?
Staffy recommends Biddulph Grange Garden, a truly magical place packed with hidden tunnels, exotic planting and secret garden pathways.
Every twist and turn feels like stepping into a different world, making it a brilliant picnic destination for curious little explorers.
Staffy’s Adventure Tip : Turn your visit into a garden treasure hunt! See who can spot the Chinese-inspired garden, hidden tunnels and woodland features.
It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, imagination and peaceful picnic moments.
6. Cannock Chase National Landscape
If your perfect picnic includes towering trees, woodland trails and plenty of outdoor adventure, Cannock Chase Forest is calling your name.
Whether you’re walking, cycling or simply exploring the forest together, there’s always something magical waiting around the next bend.
Staffy’s Favourite Hidden Gem : Seven Springs, a peaceful woodland escape where families can paddle in shallow streams, build dens, splash through the water and reconnect with nature together.
Pack a picnic, follow the forest trails and enjoy a day filled with wildlife spotting and fresh countryside air.
7. Kinver Edge
For a picnic adventure packed with history, woodland trails and spectacular views, Staffy loves Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses in South Staffordshire.
High above the surrounding countryside, this unique National Trust site is famous for its fascinating rock-cut homes hidden within the sandstone cliffs.
Staffy’s Explorer Tip : Time your picnic for golden hour and enjoy one of Staffordshire’s most breathtaking sunset views across the countryside.
Don’t forget your camera, this is one adventure you’ll definitely want to remember.
8. Rudyard Lake
Rudyard Lake is one of Staffy’s favourite places for a relaxing family picnic with a little adventure thrown in.
With beautiful waterside views, woodland walks and boats gliding across the lake, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a slower pace and soak up the scenery.
Staffy’s Top Tip : Hop aboard the miniature steam railway after your picnic! It’s a brilliant way for little adventurers to explore the lakeside while enjoying one of Staffordshire’s most charming hidden treasures.
Bring breadcrumbs for the ducks, comfy shoes for exploring and plenty of snacks, you’ll want to make a full day of it.
9. Chasewater Country Park
From waterside walks to cycling trails and open green spaces, Chasewater Country Park is packed with family-friendly picnic potential.
There’s room to run, play and explore, while the peaceful reservoir creates the perfect backdrop for a relaxing summer afternoon.
Staffy’s Picnic Challenge : Bring a frisbee, football or nature scavenger sheet, Chasewater is one of the best places in Staffordshire for turning a picnic into a full outdoor adventure.
Keep an eye out for birds sailing across the water and enjoy the fresh air together.
Image: Ian Knight
10. Branston Water Park
Located in the beautiful National Forest, Branston Water Park is one of Staffy’s favourite hidden picnic spots for stunning lakeside views and enjoyable family walks.
With easy walking trails, lots of wildlife and open green spaces, it’s perfect for a fun day outdoors with your loved ones.
Staffy’s Top Tip : Bring your binoculars! Branston is one of the best places for birdwatching, especially in the quieter areas around the lake where wildlife loves to hide.
Pack your picnic, bring bird seeds and make the most of Branston’s peaceful lakeside setting with a relaxing family day in nature.
Top Picnic Spots in Staffordshire
Magical woodlands and sparkling lakes with hidden gardens and countryside adventures, Staffordshire, the nation’s playground is bursting with incredible places to picnic this summer.
Whether you’re searching for peaceful moments in nature, outdoor family adventures or simply the perfect spot for sandwiches and sunshine, Staffy’s got the ideal recommendation waiting for you.
Check out our Countryside page to find out more about our wide open spaces, and our Gardens & Parks page if you'd prefer something more intimate and closer to home.
Where will your next picnic adventure take you?
