To celebrate National Picnic month and the appearance of some long-awaited sunshine, here are some of our all-time favourite picnic spots.

Burgh Castle

Built as defence against Saxon raids, the fort ruins at Burgh Castle are one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the country. Offering panoramic views over the marshes and iconic windmills of Breydon Water, this is the perfect place to while away the day on a picnic blanket. There is also an all-weather path that runs around the ruins if you fancy a stroll inbetween sausage rolls.

Blickling Estate

Believed to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, the second of King Henry VIII’s ill-fated wives, this National Trust estate boasts acres of peaceful woodland, parkland and farmland, as well as its own lake. Wander the hall and formal gardens before finding a scenic spot to settle down to some lunch, or download one of several walking trails around the estate’s points of interest to really work up an appetite.

Sheringham Park

For the quintessential country day out, pack up a picnic and head to this beautifully landscaped park. Famous for its rhodedendrons and azaleas – not to mention the stunning coastal views – this is North Norfolk at its best. Look out for the three resident species of deer while you munch on your sandwiches and sip your flask of tea.

Thetford Forest

If you go down to the woods today… What better place for a teddy bears picnic than the UK’s largest man-made forest? St Helen’s picnic site, next to the river, offers a designated spot to refuel and is a good base for more exploring. There is an Easy Access Trail from here which is suitable for buggies, so the whole family can enjoy a ramble.

Aldeburgh beach

Norfolk and Suffolk have countless beaches on which to enjoy lunch al fresco, but there’s something special about the stretch of shingle and sand at Aldeburgh. Strewn with fishing boats and of course the infamous Scallop sculpture, there’s plenty to amuse you before and after you’ve eaten. Forgotten your picnic basket? Grab some of the town’s fabled fish and chips – sorted!