When the sun is out, Coventry and its surrounding areas come alive with beautiful green spaces that are ideal for a laid-back picnic.
There’s something undeniably joyful about rolling out a blanket, unpacking sandwiches, and soaking up the sunshine with friends, family, or even a good book. Add a chilled bottle of wine or a beautifully distilled gin to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect summer moment – and you’ll find our recommendations on the best local spots to order your picnic drinks in this article.
Whether you're searching for a peaceful escape or somewhere the kids can run wild, we’ve got the insider information on some of the best picnic spots in and around Coventry.
Enjoy a picnic in Coventry’s parks
With plenty of parks across Coventry and the local area, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your perfect picnic spot. But don’t worry, our guide will help you choose which one works best for you.
1. War Memorial Park, Coventry
Coventry’s most iconic park, War Memorial Park is huge, beautifully kept, and buzzing with life in the warmer months. You’ll find plenty of shaded spots to roll out your blanket under mature trees, or you can settle near the tennis courts and splash park if you're visiting with little ones.
Before you set up your picnic, pop by The Park Bistro for a takeaway flat white, fresh pastries, or a homemade cake. There’s also a small café kiosk near the play area if you fancy an ice cream or snack after your sandwich spread.
2. Coombe Abbey Country Park, Coventry
If you’re looking for a dining spot with a hint of grandeur, Coombe Abbey Country Park ticks all the boxes. With 500 acres of historic woodlands, lakeside views, and sweeping fields, there’s no shortage of picnic-perfect spots here.
With plenty of play areas for the children to run free, and a full Go Ape adventure for those feeling brave, you can make a whole day of it to entertain the family.
Forgot to pack the essentials? Don’t worry, the café near the visitor centre serves up hot drinks, light lunches, and sweet treats. So, grab a coffee to go and enjoy it lakeside while watching the wonderful wildlife go by.
3. Charterhouse, Coventry
A hidden gem just a short walk from the city centre, Charterhouse offers a lovely mix of wildflower meadows, quiet gardens, and historic charm. It tends to be less busy than some of the larger parks, making it a peaceful spot for a more relaxed picnic.
And the bonus? You’ll find the dog-friendly on-site café, Farmer’s Fayre, inside the newly restored Charterhouse building. Pick up a freshly brewed coffee or homemade light bite before finding the perfect perch in the walled gardens or along the riverside path.
4. Coventry Cathedral, Coventry
If you find yourself in the city centre, Coventry Cathedral’s grounds can be a surprisingly serene space to enjoy an alfresco lunch. You’ll be surrounded by stunning architecture and a strong sense of Coventry’s rich history.
There are benches and grassy spots to slow down and savour your meal – and don’t forget to treat yourself to something refreshing from the on-site ice cream van in the summer months.
5. Ryton Pools Country Park, near Coventry
A little outside Coventry, this spacious park is worth the short drive. With woodland walks, lakeside views, and plenty of picnic tables, it’s a great choice for families of all ages.
With two fantastic playgrounds and a miniature railway, Ryton Pools makes it easy to turn your picnic into a full day out.
Plus, the on-site Farmer’s Fayre café offers light refreshments, hot drinks, and ice creams, so you can easily top up your picnic basket if you discover you left half of it at home.
6. Blabers Hall, Coventry
Take full advantage of open days at Blaber Hall Wine Estates and enjoy a picturesque picnic overlooking the vineyard.
Events often feature live music and craft markets, with hand-picked stalls offering best-in-class local artisan products. Take a slow stroll through the vines before indulging in food, hot drinks, and plenty of delicious wine from the pop-up bar – and let Blabers Hall elevate your picnic to the next level.
7. Riversley Park, Nuneaton
This charming, 13‑acre urban park follows the River Anker through Nuneaton and is home to the family-friendly Nuneaton Museum & Art Gallery.
Wander the grounds, watch ducks along the river, and marvel at the incredible exhibits to bring a side of learning with your lunch.
Complete with a tearoom set in the park grounds and a beach-themed play area for kids, this park is worth the travel if you have curious young ones that love to explore.
8. Hartshill Hayes Country Park, Nuneaton
A hill‑top woodland delight with panoramic views over four counties on a clear day, Hartshill Hayes Country Park boasts plenty of trails for wanderers and keen hikers alike.
With breathtaking bluebell displays in the spring, stunning scenery, and a children’s playground, this is an ideal park for a great family adventure.
There's no permanent café – although a mobile café often visits on weekends – so it’s best not to forget your picnic and blanket.
Tips for a great picnic in Coventry
Now you’ve picked your perfect park, it’s time to prep your picnic.
Here are our top tips to make the most out of your trip:
- Bring a picnic blanket or camping chairs for comfort. While some parks have benches, on busy days these won’t be guaranteed, and grassy areas can often more inviting.
- Use a cooler bag and ice packs. There’s nothing worse than a spoiled lunch – especially when you’ve spent time lovingly preparing it. Packing it properly will help keep it cool and fresh until you’re ready to eat.
- Keep a rubbish bag handy and leave no trace behind. Coventry’s parks are beautiful because people care for them, so do your part and take all your rubbish home or use an on-site bin.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and water on hot days. Before you get too excited and head straight out the door, check that everyone is well protected from the sun and you’ve plenty of hydration. It also might be a good idea to pack an umbrella, just in case – it is still Britain, after all!
Pair your picnic with a glass of something local
Planning a ‘grown up picnic’?
Coventry is lucky to have its very own local vineyard and gin distillery, offering the perfect excuse to pack a basket with a variety of wines, handcrafted gins, and locally sourced nibbles.
Have a picnic poured to perfection with a range of red, white, rose, or sparkling wines from Blabers Hall, a delightful, family-run vineyard based here in Coventry. With free delivery on orders over £65, your only dilemma will be which of their diverse selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly wines to choose from.
Leaning more towards a picnic tipple that will raise your ‘spirits’? East Chase Distillers create premium British artisan gin and vodka in a range of mouthwatering flavours. Based just outside the city in the leafy Kenilworth, this independent distillery uses only the finest of ingredients sourced from around the globe – and every sip reflects the passion and precision behind each small batch.
So, whether you're planning a last-minute afternoon treat or a full-blown family feast, Coventry’s parks offer plenty of choice for fresh air, good food, and great company.
All that’s left to do is pack up your picnic basket, select your tipple of choice, and head out to make the most of these brilliant green spaces.