Whether it is in the stunning gardens of Kent’s greatest attractions or the peaceful environment of beaches and coastal areas, the county provides some of the most mouth-watering al fresco dining spots

Richard Phillips at Chapel Down – on the veranda

Chapel Down is an award-winning winery near beautiful Tenterden. Enjoy a guided vineyard tour and tasting then treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Richard Phillips at Chapel Down – contemporary British food at its best, made using the finest local produce. Sit at a table on the veranda overlooking the rows of grapevines.

www.richardphillipsatchapeldown.co.uk

National Trust White Cliffs of Dover – overlooking the port of Dover

Take countryside walks over the famous White Cliffs overlooking the English Channel and French coast, then sit down and enjoy a tranquil picnic while watching the bustle and activity in the busy port.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

At the seaside

Kent has 350 miles of coastline, so to find a place for a seaside picnic or traditional fish and chips is easy, wherever you live in the county. Head down to Viking Bay, Broadstairs, where you could almost 'eat your way around the world’ al fresco there is so much choice.

www.visitkent.co.uk

Kent’s castle gardens

Soak up the majestic atmosphere of some of Kent’s famous castles, and then stimulate your appetite with a stroll around the beautiful gardens. Within the grounds of Hever Castle you will find the Moat Restaurant with views overlooking the castle and the recently opened Guthrie Pavilion situated by the Rose Garden and near the boating lake. There is seating in the courtyard by Leeds Castle’s Fairfax Hall restaurant or the seasonal Maze Market Grill, which has a covered outdoor seating area.

www.hevercastle.co.uk or www.leeds-castle.com

Country parks

Imagine relaxing and enjoying a pleasurable day with your friends, while making the day your own with a picnic. Kent’s country parks offer a day out with picnic sites, ancient woodland and wonderful meadows and lakes to enjoy. Nicola Liles on mykent.co.uk has expressed her views on Shorne Woods Country Park: “There’s plenty of Kent’s picturesque scenery to see and a great place for a picnic with friends, lots of space for rounders too!”

www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountryparks

Blean Woods, Canterbury

Blean Woods is the largest protected woodlands in southern England, with five walking trails that provide eight miles of trekking each. Outside dining options are endless, with traditional pretty villages around the woods presenting pubs and local businesses that supply Kentish produce and designated picnic areas.

www.theblean.co.uk

The Secret Garden, Ashford

This restaurant in the village of Mersham-le-Hatch near Ashford, is a real hidden gem. As Kent Restaurant of the Year winner in the Taste of Kent Awards 2010, the major draw of the Secret Garden is its commitment to use prime, seasonal ingredients originating from Kent. The new private dining area, The Glass House, provides the illusion that you are dining outside, while food and hampers are available to order.

www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

A day trip to France

Travelling to France from Kent is quick and easy. Calais is easily reached by travelling with P&O Ferries or Seafrance or you can travel with Eurotunnel from Folkestone. DFDS Seaways runs between Dover and Dunkirk. The cliffs of Cap Griz-Nez, near Calais, one of the closest points in France to England, provide an enchanting clifftop walk – a great place to enjoy a brie baguette and glass of wine.

www.northernfrance-tourism.com

Rocksalt, Folkestone

Spoil yourself with a meal at this new and innovative contemporary restaurant owned by Kent lad Mark Sargeant, the former head chef at Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-starred restaurant at Claridge’s in London. Overlooking Folkestone Harbour, Rocksalt has a relaxed atmosphere, while offering a first class menu that differs depending on the fish caught throughout the day. It’ s well worth a visit especially will the Folkestone Triennial up and running until September.

www.rocksaltfolkestone.co.uk

Kearsney Abbey, Dover

The perfect choice for family fun, Kearsney Abbey has wonderful gardens, peaceful lakes and the historical abbey grounds. There is a play area for children and the lower lake is used for model boating. The lawns are ideal for picnics and the remains of the abbey have been transformed into a pleasant café overlooking the gardens.

www.dover.gov.uk