6 of County Durham's best parks to enjoy a picnic at - grab your snacks

Picnics can be one of the most wholesome activities to enjoy with family and friends in County Durham.

But as the weather gets warmer, you might be wondering what parks you can visit in the area to set up a feast of fresh bakery treats, juicy ripe fruit and maybe even a tipple or two.

We have put together a selection of some of the best parks in the county to visit for a picnic according to their Tripadvisor reviews.

So grab your books, blankets and snacks - let's see what there is to offer near you.

Some of the best parks for a picnic in County Durham

Hardwick Park

Location: Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees, TS21 2DN

Rating: 4.5/5

One person said: “Lovely walk around the park, plenty of parking, spaces, lovely safe play area and picnic tables. Interesting visitor centre with exhibition explaining history of the park.”

Riverside Park

Location: Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, Durham, DH3 3PL

Rating: 4.5/5

On their first visit, someone posted: “Even though I've passed this park many times I never been! What a surprise- plenty of parking, various paths/routes to follow, a nice river walk to see the ducks, swans, moorhens etc.

“One route takes you behind the Emirates Riverside cricket ground. There is also a little cafe that sells food, drinks, and very nice Cappuccinos, picnic tables if you need to stop, and some seats along the riverwalk.

“Overall, a nice place to visit for all - young/old/dog walkers/mums with kids, as there is a play area for them.”

South Park

Location: South Park, Darlington, DL1 5TD

Rating: 4.5/5

Do you have a favourite picnic spot in County Durham? (Image: Getty)

A visitor wrote: “Surprisingly great park. from a nice lake, bowls club, band stands, cafes, football/ basketball courts and play parks to animal exhibits and historic russian cannons from the Crimean war, this park was surprisingly lovely and had 3x to do what other parks would offer. highly recommend for a walk out.”

Summerhill Country Park and Outdoor Activities Centre

Location: Summerhill Lane, Hartlepool, TS25 4LL

Rating: 4.5/5

This user commented: “Great free place to visit for the family. Free ample parking, easy walks on decent non muddy paths, young forests to explore, kids and bigger kids play grounds. Climbing rocks and bmx track. Toilets and cafe although only open limited times.”

Jubilee Park

Location: Jubilee Park, Spennymoor, DL16 6JJ

Rating: 4.5/5

This review said: “What a lovely park. There's so much here: bowling, planted area and trees, young and older children's play areas, skatepark, football pitch... something for all ages.”

Recommended reading:

• 5 of the best weekend walks to try in County Durham - with stunning scenery too

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• Five County Durham pubs and restaurants with stunning and unique views

Witton Castle Country Park

Location: Sloshes Lane, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland, DL14 0DE

Rating: 4/5

One comment shared: “Lovely place for a walk, the grounds are kept beautifully and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Wildlife is an absolute treat. Thank you for all your hard work.”