The best picnic spots in the Cross-Channel Geopark Transmanche

There’s something lovely about enjoying a picnic outdoors. A homemade lunch, a flask of coffee or simply a break during a walk can be even better with a great view. 

Across the Cross-Channel Geopark Transmanche, you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and enjoy the landscape. There are chalk cliffs, peaceful woodlands, rolling hills, wetlands and coastal viewpoints, with plenty of history and wildlife to discover along the way. 

Here are some of our favourite places for a picnic across the Geopark. Pack something good to eat, find a spot and enjoy the view. 

White Cliffs of Dover 

Few places are as recognisable as the White Cliffs of Dover. Rising above the English Channel, these famous chalk cliffs are one of the most iconic landscapes, and one of the key geosites in the Cross-Channel Geopark Transmanche.

Find a quiet spot along the clifftop, enjoy your picnic and take in the views across the sea. On a clear day, you can see the French coastline in the distance, a reminder of the close connection between the landscapes on both sides of the Channel. 

The cliffs also tell a fascinating geological story. Their bright white chalk was formed millions of years ago from the remains of tiny marine organisms that lived in warm seas. Today, the chalk grassland is home to a range of wildlife, including rare plants and insects. 

Mont Saint-Louis, Tournehem-sur-la-Hem 

For a picnic with a sense of adventure, head towards Mont Saint-Louis, a Geopark geosite near Tournehem-sur-la-Hem. A path leads up towards the ruins of the Saint-Louis chapel, with picnic tables along the way. 

The climb is not particularly difficult, making this a good place to combine lunch with a short walk and a chance to explore the surrounding landscape. You can find a spot near the chapel ruins and enjoy the peaceful views from the top. 

There is little shade around the summit, so remember to come prepared on sunny days. 

Farthing Common 

Farthing Common is one of those places that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. At around 185 metres above sea level, it is one of the higher points in the Kent Downs, with wide views across the surrounding countryside. It is also a Geopark geosite, with the viewpoint sitting at the meeting point of several historic routes across the Downs.

With open skies, fresh air and plenty of space to explore, it’s a lovely place to stop for a picnic. The landscape sits on the chalk ridge that runs through the Geopark and has been shaped by nature and people over thousands of years. 

Nearby routes, including the Roman road towards Canterbury, are a reminder that people have travelled across this landscape for generations. 

Clairmarais 

If you’re exploring Clairmarais, stop for a picnic before continuing on foot. The picnic areas near Étang d’Harchelles sit beneath the trees, offering a peaceful and shady place to take a break. 

Clairmarais lies within the Marais Audomarois, a remarkable wetland landscape recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its waterways, ponds, woodland and traditional landscapes provide an important habitat for wildlife and reflect the long relationship between people and the wetland. 

After your picnic, take some time to explore the surrounding paths and discover the waterways and wildlife of this distinctive part of the Geopark. 

Capel-le-Ferne Sound Mirror 

Capel-le-Ferne is a picnic spot with a fascinating story. Sitting high above the coast, the site is home to one of the UK’s remaining sound mirrors. Built before radar was invented, these structures were used to listen for approaching aircraft. 

Today, the sound mirror is a reminder of the area’s wartime history, while the surrounding landscape offers some of the best coastal views in the Geopark. 

Take a seat, enjoy the sea breeze and look out across the English Channel. On a clear day, you can see the French coast in the distance. 

Jardin des Tintelleries 

Not every picnic needs to be in the countryside. In the heart of Boulogne-sur-Mer, the Jardin des Tintelleries offers a peaceful green space surrounded by the history and life of the town. 

Just a short walk from the historic centre, it’s an easy place to stop for a picnic while exploring Boulogne-sur-Mer. Look out for the 19th-century entrance gate, the only remaining feature of the original garden, which was destroyed during the Second World War. 

As you explore Boulogne-sur-Mer, take a break in this quiet green space in the heart of the city. The garden was designed by architect Pierre-André Dufetel and has been part of the city’s landscape for more than a century. 

Bigbury Camp 

Hidden within Howfield Wood near Canterbury, Bigbury Camp is a place where history and nature come together. This ancient Iron Age hillfort has stood for more than 2,000 years and offers a peaceful setting for a picnic surrounded by woodland and grassland. 

As you explore the site, you can imagine the people who once used this hilltop as a place of protection and gathering. Today, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including butterflies and birds of prey, as well as a small herd of goats that help care for the grassland. 

If you visit with your dog, remember to keep them on a lead to help protect the livestock and the special habitats found here. 

Maison du Parc et du Geopark, Le Wast 

For a picnic surrounded by local history, head to the Maison du Parc et du Geopark in Le Wast. This Geopark geosite is housed in the Manoir du Huibois, an 18th-century Boulonnais manor, and is a great place to stop and learn more about the landscapes around you.

Inside, you’ll find information about the Geopark’s landscapes, wildlife and heritage, as well as ideas to help you explore the area. 

The manor has been renovated using traditional techniques and with respect for local architecture. Take some time to explore the site and look out for the village church and its historic entrance portal, which is listed as a historic monument. 

Monumenta Romana, Waldershare Park 

Tucked away within Waldershare Park, Monumenta Romana is a striking place to stop and enjoy the landscape. This timber sculpture forms part of the North Downs Way Art Trail and was inspired by Roman architecture and the history of the surrounding area. 

Set among mature trees and open parkland, it makes a peaceful place to take a break during a walk. Sit down, enjoy your picnic and take in the views around you. 

Respect, protect and enjoy 

The Cross-Channel Geopark is a living landscape. It is home to rare wildlife, important habitats, historic places and communities who care for these landscapes every day. 

When visiting these special places, there are simple ways we can all help protect them: 

• Take your litter home with you and leave your picnic spot as you found it. 

• Keep to paths where possible to protect plants and wildlife. 

• Keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. 

• Leave flowers, fossils and other natural features where you find them. 

• Avoid lighting fires or using disposable barbecues. 

• Take time to appreciate the landscape and the stories it holds. 

A picnic is a simple way to enjoy the Cross-Channel Geopark. So, pack your lunch, find a good spot, and take some time to enjoy the landscapes that connect communities on both sides of the Channel. 

Planning your visit? Take a look at our Geotouristic map to discover more places to visit and help plan your day.