Best Picnic Spots and Nature Trails Around East Lancashire

Forest of Bowland

The Forest of Bowland is an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it’s easy to see why. With its open moorland, peaceful valleys and scenic footpaths, it’s a great choice for a picnic with a view. There aren’t formal picnic benches in many parts, but grassy spots along the riverside near Dunsop Bridge or the quiet lanes of the Hodder Valley make perfect rest stops.

There are dozens of walking routes to choose from, ranging from short riverside walks to longer hikes over the fells. Keep an eye out for hares and the occasional herd of deer. This is a great place to enjoy nature properly, no playgrounds or cafés, just beautiful scenery.

Gisburn Forest

Gisburn Forest, part of the Forest of Bowland, is the largest forest in Lancashire and a real family favourite. There are several walking and cycling trails here, including the accessible Birch Hills Trail and the more adventurous forest loops. There’s also a dedicated mountain biking network if you fancy something a little more thrilling.

For picnics, the main car park at Stephen Park has picnic benches and toilets, and there are a few quieter clearings along the trails where you can stop for lunch surrounded by tall pine trees and birds, ideal for a quiet, shady break. Don’t forget your waterproof blanket if you’re venturing further into the woods!

Brungerley Park

Set along the River Ribble, Brungerley Park is a lovely riverside spot just outside Clitheroe town centre. The park has wide open fields, meadows and access to the Ribble Way trail, making it great for walking and family outings. It also features part of the Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, with interesting artworks to spot along the way.

Picnic-wise, there are benches dotted through the park and plenty of flat grassy areas near the riverbank. It’s a relaxed, natural space with nice views and plenty of room for kids to run around safely. A perfect place for a slow-paced picnic and walk.

Witton Country Park

One of Blackburn’s biggest and best-loved green spaces, Witton Country Park has over 480 acres of woodland, parkland and moorland. It’s packed with family-friendly features including a large play area, café, visitor centre and accessible walking routes.

There are loads of ideal picnic spots, by the playing fields, under shady trees or beside the River Darwen. The Witton Weavers Way trail also starts here offering a scenic walk through the surrounding countryside. With so much space, it never feels crowded even on sunny weekends.

Corporation Park

Corporation Park sits right in Blackburn and offers a mix of well-kept gardens, tree-lined paths, fountains, and ornamental features. There are several sheltered picnic areas with benches and lawns, particularly around the upper part of the park near the lake.

The park has gentle trails that are good for prams and younger children. There’s also a small playground, a duck pond and even a Victorian glasshouse. It’s a lovely spot for a slower day out, especially if you’re local and don’t want to head too far out.

Spring Wood

Just outside the village of Whalley, Spring Wood is a peaceful stretch of woodland with clearly marked trails and a few picnic benches near the car park. The main loop is an easy walk suitable for children, and in spring the woodland floor is covered with bluebells and wild garlic.

For a family picnic, make sure to bring your own supplies, as there are no cafés but the trees offer lovely shade on warmer days. It’s also close to Whalley Abbey, so you could easily combine the two for a family day out.

Sabden Park

Tucked between Padiham and the start of the Forest of Bowland, Sabden Park is a quiet, family-friendly park with a real community feel. There’s a good size playground, open fields for games and a stream running through the park that adds to its charm.

You’ll find picnic benches near the play area or you can set up by the stream for a more relaxed feel. It’s a great starting point for short walks into the surrounding countryside, especially towards Gawthorpe Hall or along the Greenway cycle path.