Welcome to our 2026 Picnic and Play guide, bringing together some of our favourite family-friendly parks and playgrounds across England.
With fantastic playground equipment and plenty of space to unpack a picnic, each destination makes the perfect place for a family day out this summer.
There are, of course, many more Playdale playgrounds across the North West and the rest of the UK, so you won’t struggle to find one near you.
Tattenhall, Chester CH3 9AH (what3words: power.decorated.muted)
First, we’re heading to Tattenhall, a charming Cheshire village known for its unique history and home to the record-breaking Ice Cream Farm.
At the heart of the village, you’ll find a thriving community playground packed with plenty of opportunities to climb, swing, rock and slide!
Children can start by swinging together on the Snake Swing before rushing off to race each other along the Aerial Runway. Next, they can challenge one another to see who can climb the highest on the Jungle Climber, before exploring the Woodland Eco Tower and racing down its thrilling slide, ready to start all over again!
When it’s time for a break, take a seat on one of the benches and enjoy your picnic before heading back for more play. When you’re ready to head home, why not round off your day with a visit to The Ice Cream Farm for a delicious ice cream?
Langcliffe, Settle, BD24 9NL (what3words: equal.speeding.lecturing)
Situated in the quiet village of Langcliffe, this newly installed playground has given local children an exciting new place to play this summer.
Whether you’re visiting Yorkshire or live locally, this playground is definitely worth a family day out. Why not turn it into a family day out or a weekend getaway? With a caravan park just outside the village, it’s the perfect destination to combine outdoor play with a relaxing break.
Designed for children of all ages, the playground offers plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Little ones can enjoy the Toddler Swings, while older children see who can soar the highest on the Junior Swings, tackle the Monkey Bars, or explore the Jukebox multi-play unit.
At the heart of the playground is a wooden picnic bench, the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or simply sit back and watch the children play.
Hall, Ferry Ln, Postwick, Norwich NR13 5HL (what3words: gradually.decorate.cocktail)
Next, we’re heading to Postwick Village Hall Play Area, a fantastic new Playdale installation for 2026.
Designed with children of all ages in mind, this fun-filled playground is packed with opportunities to climb, explore and let imaginations run wild. Younger children can enjoy imaginative play aboard the Play Tractor and Woodland-themed Playhouse, while older children can challenge their coordination on the Woodland Eco Towers and Adventure Trail. Additionally, the 3 Bay Team Swing offers something for everyone to join the fun, with a variety of seat options to allow children of all ages and abilities to play together.
When you’re ready for your picnic, take a seat on one of the overlooking benches, or there’s plenty of surrounding grass for you to lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing picnic while the children continue their adventures.
Malling Rd, Snodland ME20 6JA (what3words: slip.hound.strumming)
Next, we’re heading to Leybourne Lakes Country Park in Kent. With a café right next door and beautiful surroundings, this playground is the perfect place for a family day out!
The playground itself is surrounded by one large Timber Adventure Trail, giving children an exciting challenge as they race each other to the other side. A recently installed Glenduckie Plus multi-play unit gives toddlers another thrilling way to play while older children continue exploring.
The centre of the playground is filled with picnic benches, creating the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a picnic after all that excitement. Not brought a picnic with you? Why not pop over to the café opposite the playground to grab something to eat and drink instead?
Chartridge, Chesham HP5 2TT (what3words: unrated.ethic.grace)
Offering plenty of outdoor play opportunities, this playground in Franklin Fields is not one to miss!
Children will love spinning around on our Inclusive Orbit roundabout before heading over to the swings to see who can soar the highest. With an additional swing bay included, younger children can join in the fun too, making the space ideal for a wide range of ages.
Looking for even more fun? Younger children can climb aboard the Play Tractor to explore endless role-play scenarios and countryside-inspired journeys.
Surrounded by green space, Franklin Fields is also the perfect setting for a family picnic, ball games, or simply relaxing outdoors and making the most of a sunny day together.
Whether you live in these areas, are visiting, or just passing through, these playgrounds are perfect for fun-filled family days out. Pack up a picnic, explore these fantastic play areas, and enjoy an unforgettable day out this summer!
Picnic & Play… in North West England Welcome to Playdale’s Picnic and Play guide for 2026, created to help families find the best parks and playgrounds over the summer holidays! We’ve made sure all these parks are equipped with a fantastic selection of playground equipment and spaces to relax and enjoy a picnic. This time, […]
Picnic & Play… in Yorkshire Welcome to Playdale’s Picnic and Play guide for 2026, created to help families find the best parks and playgrounds over the summer holidays! We’ve made sure all these parks are equipped with a fantastic selection of playground equipment and spaces to relax and enjoy a picnic. This week, we are […]
Picnic & Play… in South East England Welcome to Playdale’s Picnic and Play guide for 2026, created to help families find the best parks and playgrounds over the summer holidays! We’ve made sure all these parks are equipped with a fantastic selection of playground equipment and spaces to relax and enjoy a picnic. This week, […]
