Find Dream Summer Picnic Spots with Asda Money’s Adventure Planner

Almost half (41%) of the UK said they were planning to travel in the UK only over the next 12 months
16 per cent of people have already made holiday bookings for the next 12 months
Discover the best walks for families across the UK just in time for National Picnic Week with Asda’s Adventure Planner
With restrictions now easing across the country, ASDA Money has been investigating how Brits feel about travelling again. In 2021, a study from Asda Money of 2,000 people in the UK found that 41 per cent of Brits were still planning on going on holiday despite the restrictions. In 2022, this number has increased, with Collinson Group reporting that almost 93% of Brits planning to travel abroad for leisure this year, and 63% would rather spend money on travel than material gains.[1]

However, not everyone is comfortable travelling abroad just yet, and with airlines no longer enforcing mask-wearing, a staycation in the UK is still the preferable option for a lot of people.

However, when we’ve all been stuck in the UK for the last two years, it can be challenging to constantly find new and affordable ways to fill your time and enjoy the sunshine. This is why National Picnic Week, at the start of the great British summer on 18th June, is an ideal time to explore some of the idyllic, unusual walks the UK has to offer. Pack a lovely spread, pop a bottle of champagne, and bask in the British wilderness.

Thanks to Asda Money’s Adventure Planner, it could not be easier for Brits to plan their day out in nature. This free personalised tool allows you to discover over 150 attractions from across the country. They are suitable for various ages, and best of all, many of the activities are free or at a minimal cost.

Although restrictions are easing, the result of Asda Money’s recent survey indicates that when it comes to travel, many people would still prefer to remain on UK soil. Nearly 42 per cent of people continue to be concerned about COVID-19 cases in other countries, with 36 per cent of Brits saying they do not know when they will travel internationally again and 14 per cent claiming they would never travel.

From the survey, 46 per cent of people said they are more likely to book a holiday in the UK than in previous years, while 16 per cent said they had already made a booking. These findings show that the demand for people wanting to enjoy more time in the UK is high, which is why now is the perfect time to get outdoors and explore the incredible walking trails and stunning scenery that the UK has to offer.

Of the 1,153 people planning to travel within the UK over the next 12 months, almost six out of ten (59%) said it would be for a holiday, over four out of ten (41%) said it would be to visit family, a quarter (26%) said it would be to see friends and 5 per cent said it wouldn’t be for a particular reason, but they would just like to travel somewhere.

Even getting out for a day to stretch the legs, breathe in the fresh air and relax in nature can be all that is needed to provide that much-needed change of scenery that many people are craving.

Alastair Ball, Head of Insurance at Asda Money, commented, “The pandemic has impacted us all in so many ways, including holiday plans many of us would usually look forward to. But it’s great to see people are still hopeful in making most of the beautiful outdoors, visiting family and friends and exploring the best walking spots the UK has to offer.”

“There’s certainly some fantastic walks and day trips to be had, and we want to help make that as safe and feasible as possible, which is why it’s so important to us to offer affordable motor insurance to our customers, so they can spend time and money thinking about other things – like adventures!”

By simply completing a few quick questions around your desired destination, budget and traveller preferences, Asda Money’s Adventure Planner will scan over 150 attractions nationwide to provide you with a selection of the best places in the UK for a wholesome summer picnic.

This free helpful tool will even tell you if the location is dog friendly and whether it is ideal for a day trip or longer stay, should you wish to extend your visit.

No matter where your chosen region is, there are countless spectacular walks on offer, such as:

Scotland

Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell
Explore the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games host venue, one of Scotland’s most popular family attractions. Both kids and their four-legged friends will love running around this iconic country park surrounded by miles of scenic countryside.

Loch Lomond, Balloch
A brilliant way to get active this summer is to head to one of the incredible walking trails around the largest lake in Scotland, Loch Lomond. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views and breath-taking scenery.

Wales

Lydstep Cliffs and Caverns Walk, Lydstep
A beautiful spot for a long walk. The spectacular clifftop is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, while young explorers will love investigating the rocky caves. On a clear day, you may even be able to spot some dolphins or porpoises offshore!

Brecon Beacons National Park, Libanus
Your family can have a full day of fun here. Kids can run free and scramble on the ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle, go bug hunting or fly a kite from Sugar Loaf hill on a windy day. There’s a full day of fun to be had here, from scrambling along the ruins of Carreg Cennen, to extreme kayaking over jaw-dropping waterfalls, and even a full day horse ride past countryside pubs and spectacular viewpoints.

Northern Ireland

Tollymore Forest, Newcastle
Be enchanted by the giant redwoods and ancient oak trees, wander along the River Shimna and enjoy the many bridges, grottos and caves along the way. Stretching almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains, there’s plenty of space to enjoy a secluded, romantic picnic for two.

Causeway Coastal Route, Ballycastle
The superb Causeway Coastal Route is a fantastic area to walk around. The route is also dotted with amazing cliff pathways, caves, the Giant’s Causeway, and the exhilarating Carrick-A-Rede Rope bridge!

North East

Jesmond Dene, Jesmond
A wonderful historic park in the heart of Newcastle, Jesmond Dene provides a tranquil environment for a gentle stroll where you can catch a glimpse of rare wildlife, including magnificent peacocks.

High Force and Low Force Walk, County Durham
A leisurely scenic walk through the famous North Pennines with one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, cascading 21 metres into a plunge pool below.

North West

Lake District National Park, Cumbria
This stunning park offers a vast range of child and dog-friendly walks as well as views of shimmering lakes and dramatic mountains. An ever-popular family favourite.

Sefton Park, Liverpool
Explore the 200 acres of rolling landscapes, pathways, lakes, and statues including a beautiful boating lake. There’s even a Victorian era bandstand to live out your Gilmore Girl picnic date dreams.

Yorkshire & Humber

Malham and Gordale, Yorkshire Dales
The Malham and Gordale Scar walk provides a stunning location for a family walk, with dramatic cliffs and tumbling waterfalls. There is plenty of natural beauty to admire and rocks to scramble over for little adventurers.

Wentworth Castle Gardens, Barnsley
These spectacular gardens in South Yorkshire provide the perfect backdrop for a summer picnic. Wander through the famous historical gardens and visit the contemporary artwork exhibitions. You could even make some of your own wild art along the way!

East Midlands

Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
Take your family for a walk in the magical Sherwood Forest, home to the old legend of Robin Hood. Explore the ancient woodlands, wildlife and so much more.

Peak District National Park, Derbyshire
Known as the spiritual home of the great countryside, there is so much to do and see, including wild moorlands, famous hills and plenty of walking and cycling trails to keep you busy!

West Midlands

Client Hills, Romsley
Less than 8 miles from Birmingham City centre, this park offers panoramic views as far as the Cotswold and Welsh borders. Explore the long footpaths, bridleways and easy access trails as you make your way through the beautiful park.

Walsall Arboretum, Walsall
First opened in 1874, the 170 acres of Walsall Arboretum houses a wonderful boating lake, beautiful gardens, open green spaces and over 10,000 different species of trees and shrubs – making it the perfect backdrop for a cute picnic photoshoot.

East of England

Maldon Promenade Park, Maldon
This Edwardian Promenade Park on the Blackwater Estuary offer a lovely family stroll around the lake or if you have some spare pennies, you’re sure to love the mini-golf, zoo and boat lake!

Hylands Estate Country Park, Chelmsford
Set in 570 acres of parkland, Hylands House is the perfect location for a long stroll. Kids will love walking in the woodlands or playing at the award-winning Adventure Park!

London

Hyde Park, Green Park and Kensington Gardens
In the heart of London, Hyde Park offers places for families to stroll and relax in the beautiful surroundings. Green Park spans over 40 acres, an ideal place for a day full of walking and exploring. Plus, did you know Kensington Gardens have their own wild parakeets? If you take an apple or two with you, you can even feed them! Just maybe walk away a little bit for your picnic.

Greenwich Park
Overlooking the River Thames, Greenwich Park offers a historic mix of landscapes and stunning scenery to walk around. Discover the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory or learn about the famous Cutty Sark for some historical education!

South East

South Downs National Park
Spanning the three counties of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex, there’s nothing better than walking amongst the rolling chalk hills and lush greenery. History lovers will love the Iron Age monuments and forts dotted around.

Leith Hill Tower, Surrey Hills, Surrey
Surrounded by lots of family-friendly and dog-friendly woodland, this tower is the highest point in Southeast England. Kids will love exploring the parkland and climbing the 74 steps to the top of the tower for a glimpse of the London Eye!

South West

Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps when you visit the ancient woodlands of Puzzlewood. Marvel at the twisted trees and enjoy a mile and a half of walking trails with plenty of lookout points and bridges.

Haldon Forest Park, Exeter
With 3,500 acres of woodland to explore and gorgeous views, these offer the ideal location for a stroll or hike. If you have some extra money, you could even book a Segway tour of the forest or visit Go Ape for treetop adventures!

So, what are you waiting for? Try Asda Money’s Adventure Planner for free today!

To help you get ready for your adventure, below are a few handy tips to get you set for any road trips:

Check over your car, including checking the oil levels and dashboard for any warning lights, giving your tyres a once over, and if possible, giving your car a quick test drive if you haven’t driven it in some time.
Have a look at the weather forecast, so this way you can be prepared for anything the elements have to throw at you.
If you’re travelling with kids, consider preparing some entertainment for them before you get on the road – this could be a fun quiz or a children’s podcast to play.
Grab some snacks to take with you; this could include sandwiches, healthy snacks and drinks for when anyone is feeling peckish along the way – you could also throw in a rug and make a picnic out of it!
Check your route on a map and plan in regular pit stops and breaks to avoid tired eyes on the road which can cause accidents – this also helps add in some extra exploring opportunities.
Of course, for all road journeys of any distance, having a comprehensive motor insurance policy that gives you invaluable peace-of-mind while you’re on the road is essential – to find the motor insurance policy that best suits you, compare quotes from over 60 of the UK’s top car insurance providers with Asda Money’s price guarantee where they pledge to beat a cheaper online quote* plus, up to 70% no claims discount.

*This offer is to beat your cheapest, like-for-like, online car insurance quote and the guarantee applies to the basic policy price only. As a web provider this offer excludes telephone quotations. This offer only applies to permanent residents in the UK. Proof and validation of alternate quotes may be required before the guarantee is honoured.