It’s National Picnic Month (1-31 July) and we’re celebrating by giving you the run down on how you can enjoy a picnic at a RSPB nature reserve near you.
There are few better places to celebrate National Picnic month at than at one of the country's numerous RSPB nature reserves. You can spot all kinds of native birds and wildlife at a diverse range of landscapes, from ancient oak woodlands to coasts and estuaries.
Eating outdoors at one of our nature reserves, or in the wider countryside, is part of the enjoyment of summer. It’s a great way to make happy memories with friends and family and to take a moment to pause and soak up your natural surroundings – there’s nothing like a sandwich with a view.
By packing a picnic this summer, rather than lighting a barbecue in precious greenspaces, you are helping to protect wildlife, their homes, and people, from the devastation that wildfires cause each year. The summer months cause the vegetation at some of our reserves, and in the countryside, to become much drier, making it more susceptible to catching fire if a spark is lit nearby. Find more info here.
Our four tips for preventing wildfires are:
Barbecues and campfires are not allowed on RSPB reserves - please pack a picnic instead.
Smokers are asked to take extra care and extinguish cigarettes safely.
Leave no trace - take all litter and food waster home; it can spark a fire and harm wildlife.
If you see a fire, call 999 and report it immediately.
There are dozens of RSPB nature reserves along the length and breadth of the country, here are the Top Seven RSPB Reserve Picnic Spots
To find a nature reserve that is close to you, check the list on the RSPB website
