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Viewpoints & Picnic Spots in Leicester

If you fancy a bit of a view with your sandwiches, the options near Leicester are more of a drive out than a stroll. Oakthorpe Picnic Site is out at Swadlincote, free to get into, with accessible paths, free parking and dogs welcome, and longer opening through the summer. Queen's Park in Loughborough is also free, with a zip line, a five-way swing and sensory play kit for the kids, plus a proper café if you'd rather not pack a flask. For toddlers and anyone after level ground, Oakthorpe's accessible paths make life easier, and there's no charge either way. If the kids need to run about before you settle down to eat, Queen's Park has more to keep them busy, and the café covers you if the picnic plan falls through. Both are outdoor spots, so a dry day helps, and both are free, so it is really a question of which drive suits you.

✓ 2 places✦ 2 free to visit