Lough Neagh offers an abundance of great places to picnic. From charming lakeside spots, to magical woodlands; intimate walled gardens and rolling countryside, there’s no shortage of places to unpack your picnic basket and enjoy the view. With summer in full swing, there’s no better time to enjoy the best that lough neagh has to offer by visiting one of these fantastic eateries and enjoying a quiet picnic.

Ditty’s Home Bakery

Fill your picnic basket with the most delicious local baked goods. Located in Castledawson, Ditty’s Home Bakery is the perfect lunch stop for freshly baked breads, savory pies, cakes and of course ‘wee buns!’ A short 10 minute drive away is Ballyronan Marina which serves as one of the best picnicking areas to enjoy the lough from. With fantastic unobstructed views of Lough Neagh and a number of tables to enjoy it from, these seats are perfectly placed to enjoy your freshly baked picnic.

The Yellow Door Deli

Whilst soaking up the superb natural heritage and remarkable cultural treasures, it would be a shame not to try some of the best local Northern Ireland produce at the Yellow Door Deli. Indulge in some specialty breads, patisserie and tasty dishes. They’re that good they’ve even been featured in Taste of Ulster. Once you’ve collected your delicious goods, take a stroll over to Portadown People’s Park. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the stunning themed gardens. With unique features, park benches, surrounded by trees and newly planted shrubs this is a great place for a walk, a talk and a good old picnic!

Seed

Whether you’re looking for a healthy smoothie or a mouth watering salad to enjoy, Seed, located in Dungannon is the perfect pit stop to pack the picnic basket. With your delicious healthy lunch in tow, take a trip to Peatlands Park a mere 8 miles away. Peatlands Park is a wonderfully unique park with a rich variety of wildlife and habitat. Whilst the park has over 10 miles of paths leading visitors throughout the park’s beautiful scenery, the diverse wildlife is what really sets it apart. With creatures ranging from moths and butterflies to squirrels and badgers and even some lizards, Peatlands Park is one of the best places to enjoy your picnic whilst experiencing one of Northern Ireland’s most unique ecosystems.

The Boathouse

Located in the new Gateway complex at Antrim Lough Shore, The Boathouse brings you proper fish and chips, wood fired pizzas and an array of fresh eats – perfect for your summer picnic. The Boathouse offers stunning views over Lough Neagh, thanks to the solid glass exterior. A view you’ll never tire of, whilst enjoying delicious, freshly cooked dishes, homemade desserts and treats made by an in-house baker.

The Old Forge

Set in a historic building which was once the working Blacksmiths Forge for the town and the neighbouring Shane’s Castle Estate, The Old Forge is the perfect cafe to collect your picnic lunch. Enjoy a freshly brewed hot drink and homemade cake whilst soaking up the history and culture. Located just a short drive away, Randalstown forest with picnic facilities is a great place for those looking for a quiet moment to enjoy their freshly bought lunch. With a deer park, owl conservation centre and several walking routes there are plenty of great options to explore after you’ve enjoyed your picnic.

Now you know the best places to stop for lunch on your tour of lough neagh, there’s only one thing left to do – Gather friends and family together, pack a coat and get ready to enjoy a socially distanced picnic in the great outdoors. There really is no better way to end a day of exploring than with a delicious picnic lunch, perfectly complemented with views of Lough Neagh.