The best summer spots for a picnic in Norwich

Looking for the best picnic spots in Norwich? Look no further...

Bowthorpe Southern Park

Where: Mardle Street, Norwich, NR5 9HU

Nestled between the housing estate of Three Score and Colney in West Norwich is a nice spot for a quick dog walk, picnic or just a family walk along the river. If using a Satnav like Google, simple type ‘Bowthorpe Southern Park Car Park’ or the address ‘Three Score Rd, Norwich NR5 9HY’ to take you to the free car park.

There are lots of horses in the area which tend to be quite friendly and perfect if you’re an animal lover. There are a few picnic benches around and plenty of space to lay down a blanket to have that peaceful picnic upon nature.

Situated by the River Yare, it is a wildlife haven, and there is the opportunity for a walk or room for some games if you want to stretch your legs. Regular exercise is really important for peoples mobility and wellbeing. Getting out doors on a nice day can also give you a great Vitamin D boost. Our Care Professionals can help support you with your adventures in Norwich by helping with transportation and companionship, whilst out. Find our more information on our companionship services here.

Eaton Park

Where: South Park Avenue, Norwich, NR4 7AU

There is plenty to do in this park as it is a sporting and recreational park. From tennis court and parks for little ones, to crazy golf and the skate park. There is something for everyone. Eaton Park has acres of space to explore and enjoy. There are shady tree-lined avenues and benches for resting, elegant grade II listed buildings and glorious flower beds.

At the heart of the park is the rotunda, a domed bandstand surrounded by four colonnaded pavilions. If you don’t want to pack your own food, there is a café called the Eaton Park Cafe and Deli which is delicious! There is lots of space to find your perfect picnic spot on the grass at Eaton park.

In the summer the bandstand and other areas of the park host concerts and other events. The boat pond is one of the finest in Europe and has it’s own beautiful pavillion. Anyone can bring a model boat and sail it here. There’s also a great programme of regattas and events organised by Norwich Model Boat Club.

Earlham Park

Where: Norwich, NR4 7TQ

Sit down by the river and have a paddle in the shallow water, at the top of the hill with a view across the park, or within the woodland area for some dappled shade.

There is a café if you want an ice cream or a hot drink to accompany your packed picnic. A circular walk to the UEA lake takes you through marshland and alongside the river.

Paid parking is available on site although in the summer months it can be particularly busy due to the popular location of the Norwich university (UEA)

Cow Tower

Where: Cotman Fields, Norwich, NR1 4AA

Sit alongside the Wensum next to Cow Tower – one of the earliest purpose-built artillery blockhouses in England, built in 1398. The interior of the tower is not open to visitors but the exterior of the tower is easily accessible on flat paths.

With plenty of shade, it is the perfect place on a hot day, watching wildlife come and go at one of the prettiest spots in the city. There are no facilities on site but it is close to the centre of Norwich where there are public toilets, shops, restaurants, cafés, pubs and other amenities.

No parking on site but there is charged short stay parking available at Norwich Railway Station or in a multi-storey car park over the road from the station.

For more information about the services Home Instead offer, visit our website here

Whitlingham Broad

Where: Whitlingham Lane, Norwich, NR14 8TR

Watch people enjoy the water on Whitlingham Broad as you settle for a picnic anywhere around the broad. There are benches scattered around the broad and ample space to lay a blanket down on the green near Flint barn Café. The café sells hot and cold food to eat in or take out for your perfect picnic. They also have Vegan and Dairy Ice Creams for those particular hot and sunny days.

There are toilets within the café and in the car park and plenty of onsite parking.

Enjoy a walk around the lake or woodland if you feel like stretching your legs after eating.