Six of the best forest spots to grab a picnic

From bucolic Buckinghamshire to the luscious Lakes, our Site Manager's share their favourite spots for a summer picnic.

England’s only mountain forest.  Rising 1,000ft above sea level, Whinlatter has unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. The landscape has inspired many of the world’s greatest artists, writers and thinkers. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including red squirrels.

Meg's top spot: Climb to Bob’s seat. It's a stunning viewpoint where you can soak in the views of Grizedale Pike and Keswick.

The jewel of the West Midlands. With its varied landscape and plethora of wildlife, it is easy to see why Cannock Chase has been named an AONB. This tranquil and peaceful setting is full of trails for walking and cycling, and it also plays host to the remains of an iron age hill fort.

Ellis's top spot: Just off Lady Hill Trail, you'll find Pingle Slade, AKA the concert field. It's spacious and great for kids to play whilst you unpack your picnic.

A magical world of trees, lakes and woodland located between Lamberhurst and Goudhurst on the Kent/Sussex border. The National Pinetum is breathtaking in its size and grandeur. Highlights include the six lakes and ponds along the Dallimore Valley and a series of paths where you'll find an impressive stand of giant redwoods.

Sam's top spot: You'll find Marshal's Lake near the pinetum's northern boundary. This iconic spot is awash with lilies in summer and is one to soak in.

Situated on the southern slopes of the North York Moors National Park, Dalby Forest offers over 8,000 acres of woodlands to explore and enjoy. It also includes two terrific play areas for children at Sneverdale and Adderstone.

Nick's top spots: Staindale Lake in the heart of Dalby Forest is the perfect summer spot. Located 10 minutes from our cabin it offers some incredible viewpoints and an abundance of wildlife. The mountain bike skills tracks at Dixon's Hollow are also good fun.

Part of the South Downs National Park, which straddles the Hampshire/Surrey county boundary. Alice Holt is a royal forest, occasionally known as a Kingswood. Facilities include a cafe, natural spaces, outdoor play structures for children to explore, cycle hire, and over 8 miles of waymarked trails for walking and cycling.

Keri's top spot: The Timberline Meadow beside the Go Ape cabin is a great spot and not a million miles from the car park.

The second-largest crown forest in England and once a royal hunting ground. It combines dense pine woods, rolling hills and the glistening ribbon of the Wye River. With artworks hidden among the trees, the Forest of Dean is both magical and mystical.

Pete's top spot: Mallards Pike is one of the best picnic spots in the South West. Several picnic tables are sited with views over the lake. There is an unusual sculpture of a mermaid and a frog on one of the banks, of which no one knows the origi