Set Summer Free Wiltshire Picnic Spots

Five Delicious Picnic Spots in Wiltshire 

Historic, mystical and breathtaking: welcome to the third in our summer-long series in which we visit some of the greatest picnic spots across the UK. This time, we're laying our picnic rug down in Wiltshire.

Overseas adventures might be harder to come by this year, but there’s still plenty to discover a lot closer to home. That’s why throughout the summer, we’ll be highlighting our favourite picnic spots and showing you where to go when you’re hungry for a little al fresco exploration.

Today we’re making a beeline for one of England’s most-picturesque locations, and handpicking the best places near the historic city of Salisbury to set down your picnic rug, lift the lid on your Fortnum’s wicker, and indulge in a little open air feasting.

A World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is a truly incredible place that defies simple description – plenty of people describe seeing the impossibly-ancient structures as an almost spiritual experience.

THE LANDMARK

Where else to start but one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric landmarks? A World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is a truly incredible place that defies simple description – plenty of people describe seeing the impossibly-ancient structures as an almost spiritual experience.

Whether that’s the case for you or not, the rolling green spaces near the famous stone circle are fantastic, and once you’re well and truly henge-d out, you’ll have room aplenty to spread your picnic rug, pop open a bottle of something chilled and refreshing, and contemplate how Neolithic man would feel about a Scotch Egg. (Very positive, we’re sure.)

THE PARK

Salisbury’s famous cathedral attracts tourists from around the world, and nearby Queen Elizabeth Gardens offers wonderful views and plenty of space for small people (and any four-legged friends) to run themselves up a bit of an appetite.

It’s also known as a bit of a wildlife hotspot – keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a Kingfisher or two as you feast away at your cheeseboard.

THE ADVENTURE

Heading out of Salisbury a little, the picturesque and historic village of Pewsey (where settlements have been recorded since the 6th century) is well-worth the half-hour car journey north through the Wiltshire countryside.

The village sits in the centre of the Vale of Pewsey – a rolling green and inimitably English landscape with almost limitless opportunities for picnicking and (depending on where you choose to lay your basket) views of the hills towards Devizes, the Wilton Windmill, and the huge White Horse carvings that are etched into the landscape.

The picturesque and historic village of Pewsey (where settlements have been recorded since the 6th century) is well-worth the half-hour car journey north through the Wiltshire countryside.

THE CURIOSITY

The enormous, circular Iron Age Hill fort of Old Sarum was a focal point for the Romans, Saxons and Normans and the historic ruins of the ancient castle, cathedral and royal palace are still in place.

Surrounded on all sides by beautiful countryside, what makes it such a unique spot for a picnic is the chance to spot a parachuted skydiver heading back to terra firma at nearby Old Sarum Airfield. It’s not something you get with every picnic spot, is it?

THE DOG WALK

A short distance south-east from Salisbury centre lies Pepperbox Hill – a National Trust site that’s perfect for a long and bracing walk with the hound.

The views across the Wiltshire countryside are breathtaking (on a clear day, you’ll be able to see Salisbury Cathedral) and in the summer, you’ll spot abundant wildflowers and butterflies whatever route you take. Pack tipples and snacks for you and the pooch, and enjoy.