~Parks fit for a Romantic Picnic~

Hey everyone,

Now I know you may think I'm crazy for this post but sometimes February brings us a sunny day. And what better way to use a sunny day (rare as it may be) having a romantic picnic in the park or even in your own garden. It could be a park close to where you live to one of London's royal parks. Or there's the beautiful Delamere Forest in Cheshire to Lake Windermere in the Lake District.

With romance on the cards, a picnic basket in hand and a blanket you can't go wrong. So here is our list of the top 6 parks across the UK to visit with that special someone.

6. At number 10 it's got to be Hampstead Heath. With Kenwood House in the grounds of Hampstead Heath, it's a sure location for a romantic picnic. There's plenty of walks that take you away from the children's play areas and the lido and also there is the mixed ponds if you dared to take a swim!

5. At number 9 we have the amazing Richmond Park- with it's delightful greenery, nearby shops, pubs and restaurants there's no limitations on what you can do. There is also the beautiful Pembroke Lodge which has a lovely café in- plus it can be hired for a wedding venue and I have no doubt that if you wanted to organise a proposal there, the team at Pembroke will happily help you.

4. At number 8 we have Postman's Park. Situated in the City of London (near St Paul's Cathedral) sits this small but beautiful park famously named after the workers of the nearby General Post Office frequented there. It is also a memorial to many people who sacrificed their lives for the life of another. It will encourage you and your partner to treasure each moment you have not knowing when you'll have your last. Postman's Park is a treasured place to have a spot of lunch (if you're working long hours on Valentine's Day).

3. At number 7 we have Lake Windermere. Now although not an official park, you can take a boat ride, pack a treat or two in your rucksack and enjoy the delights of the calming lake as well as snuggling up to your partner. But wrap up warmly, it is very cold indeed! This is where you pack a flask of coffee or hot chocolate. Lake Windermere's beauty will supress the cold you feel.

2. At number 6 is Chatsworth House. It has beautiful gardens and rivers surrounding the house and was famously used as the location for Mr Darcy's home (Pemberley) in the 2005 film Pride & Prejudice. There is plenty to explore and see. It's definitely worth the trip (so I'm told). I hope to visit there one day.

1. And at number 1 we have the beautifully stunning Delamere Forest. This is a special place to me as it is where Duncan (my amazing husband) proposed to me in 2014. With it's beautiful landscapes, amazing lake and scenery to knock the socks off your feet, you are sure to have an amazing time! You can also do some cycling, walking etc as they have plenty a trail to follow. There's also a café there too. Delamere Forest is also served by it's own train station (which in itself doesn't deter from Delamere's beauty). Maybe one day, I'll share the story of our engagement with you. Watch this space.

So there you have it! Our top 6 parks around the UK to explore this Valentine's Day. As cold as the British winter/springtime can be, there's nothing like a romantic picnic in the right spot (a park, lake, rooftop terrace or your own garden etc.) to put sparkle into your relationship.

What's your favourite place for a date? Coming up in the next few days we will be looking at the Perfect Homemade Valentine's Dinner, the top 20 love songs (chosen by you!) and what to do when you have leftover chocolates or food from Valentine's Day.

Keep your eyes peeled!

Love,

Lily