It’s picnic season – the perfect time of year to spread out a blanket and pass round the Pimm’s.
You don’t even have to leave our grounds to find the perfect picnic spot; settle down under a shady tree by the river at Amesbury or enjoy the scent of the rambling roses in the walled gardens at Sutton Manor.
If you do fancy heading further afield, there are plenty of picture-perfect places to lay out your picnic in the rolling countryside and quaint villages around us.
Here are five of our favourite local picnic spots that can be reached from both Amesbury Abbey and Sutton Manor:
Salisbury Cathedral Close
Pack up your hamper and head into Salisbury, where you can picnic in the historic Cathedral Close against the backdrop of the impressive cathedral, historic houses and pretty gardens.
Stonehenge
There can be no better view when you’re enjoying your cucumber sandwiches. You can picnic in the monument field with the view of the Stone Circle, or at other designated points around the Visitor Centre and landscape.
Stockbridge Marsh
Just off Stockbridge high street, Stockbridge Marsh is perfect for a picnic on the banks of the river that runs along its western boundary. Watch out for swans and egrets on the water, and passing cattle and horses who graze here regularly through the year.
Pewsey Wharf
Today a picture of tranquillity, Pewsey Wharf was once a busy industrial canal. Walk along the towpath of the Kennet & Avon Canal to find your perfect picnic spot – there are plenty of benches if you don’t fancy sitting on the ground. Idle the day away watching the passing boats and water wildlife.
Chilbolton Cow Common
A little-known idyllic spot on the River Test – it’s so picturesque, you'll feel as if you’ve wandered into a Constable painting! Perfect for paddling, taking the dogs for a swim, and sitting on the bank with your picnic. Perfect.