British beauty spots

Looking for the ideal spot to place your hamper? Julie Alpine takes us to 10 of the best…

The stunning spots that will make the perfect place for a picnic

TARN HOWS, CUMBRIA

WHERE: B5285, near Coniston

WHY: Tarn Hows might be deep in Beatrix Potter country, but with parking, toilets and an easy, hour-long, buggy and dog friendly circular walk around the mirror-like lake, it spells stress-free picnicking at its finest. Work up an appetite with a stone-skimming contest, say hello to the black-and-white belted Galloway cows who graze along the route, and keep your eyes peeled for ‘wishing logs’ – a Cumbrian tradition that sees tree stumps adorned with coins – before settling down in a secluded spot to eat, drink in the panoramic fell views and perhaps, post-feast, enjoy a sun-dappled siesta.

PERFECT PICNIC: Stock up on local farm-to-plate favourites: think Cumbrian sausage rolls, a cheeseboard complemented with fresh damsons, and mountains of sweet and spicy Grasmere gingerbread, created by Sarah Nelson in 1854 – its exact recipe is still top secret. >>