With summer finally here The Cookaway is celebrating sunny days, the great outdoors and the endless opportunities for a devilishly good British Summer BBQ with family and friends.
Obviously, nothing beats a BBQ in the garden. Except perhaps when that garden happens to be at the back of one of Oliver’s Travels luxury holiday villas with beautiful scenic views of the British countryside or coast. With that in mind, we thought it would be fun to get together with Oliver’s Travels and come up with our combined list of the best barbecue spots across the UK. Starting with…
1. Derwent Water – Lake District
If fairy tale destinations are what you’re after, Derwent Water is an unspoiled setting for a peaceful outdoor dining experience. Offering a stunning lake, plenty of secluded beaches and breath-taking landscapes, you’ll be treated to dinner with a view.
2. The Meadows – Edinburgh
If you’re exploring the beauty of Edinburgh, you’ll likely take a visit to The Meadows. Situated just south of the city centre, this pretty park has tree-lined paths, open grassland and makes for a great spot to hang out with a group of friends. There are designated barbecue spots with raised concrete areas so you can fire up the barbecue without scorching the grass. And once you’re done, there are plenty of pubs and bars nearby to keep the party going.
3. Bournemouth Beach – Dorset
If you’re hoping for an evening barbecue, Bournemouth Beach permits barbecues from 6pm so you and your group can settle in for an evening of sunsets and sea views. There are four barbecue areas to choose from but make sure you only use a gas or charcoal barbecue as open fires are not permitted.
4. Balloch Castle Country Park – Loch Lomond
One of the UK’s largest freshwater lochs at almost 32 miles long, there’s plenty of space to choose from at Loch Lomond. Balloch Castle Country Park is a great spot to settle down for a barbecued lunch with a view over the loch and lush greenery. The dedicated barbecue facilities make it super easy to get stuck into an afternoon of good company and great food.
5. Pembrey Country Park – Wales
One of Wales most popular attractions, and for good reason, Pembrey Country Park is the ultimate destination for a serene barbecue. With over 500 acres of parkland and even an 8-mile-long beach, you can spend the day exploring before setting up for dinner. Make sure to use a freestanding barbecue with a protective lid and take all your rubbish with you.
6. Newport Sands – Wales
There’s nothing quite like a beach barbecue – golden sand under your toes, sunsets over the horizon and the gentle lapping of waves as your sausages sizzle on the grill. And Newport Sands is no exception! There are even local fishmongers and butchers nearby if you have a few extra mouths to feed. Get a group together and enjoy this idyllic destination with a delicious barbecue recipe box.
7. Kielder Water & Forest Park – Northumberland
Home to the largest manmade lake in Europe, Kielder Water & Forest Park makes a scenic spot for cooking up a feast on the barbie. There are a number of designated BBQ sites at the visitor centres so you can sit back and soak up the views over the reservoir. The Park is bustling with wildlife, including the rare red squirrel, so you might have a few extra guests to entertain! As the night draws in, enjoy the clear skies which make a romantic stargazing spot.
8. Watergate Bay – North Cornwall
The quieter neighbouring town to Newquay, Watergate Bay offers miles of beachfront and rocky outcrops to explore. After a day of body boarding and kite surfing, set up for dinner in the delightful surroundings – it’s one of our favourite spots!
9. Constantine Bay – Cornwall
For a slightly more rugged beach vibe, the sand dunes and crashing waves at Constantine Bay make a dramatic backdrop to a beach barbecue. Gaze at the breath-taking views across to Trevose Head and crack open your barbecue box for a meal to remember. Make sure you’re using a disposable or charcoal barbecue though, as gas grills are not allowed on beaches.
Follow Your Intrepid Instincts
Wherever your intrepid spirit might take you this summer, if you’re exploring the UK why not pre-order a recipe box from our BBQ range and have it waiting for you when you arrive?
Our BBQ recipe boxes are packed with exciting, original flavours inspired by cuisines around the world. Choose from a sensational smoky, chargrilled British rump cap beef steak or sticky citrus chicken, partnered with vibrant salads and sides in our meat box. Or go veggie with our juicy portobello and oyster mushroom shawarma and sizzling meat-free burgers filled with charred avocado, halloumi and caramelised onions which are a family favourite.
The Cookaway and Oliver’s Travels
We are excited to be partnering with Oliver’s Travels, the luxury villa holiday specialists. Their concierge team is on hand to help you choose the perfect accommodation and our recipe boxes are available for delivery to all their mainland UK properties and can be ordered when booking your luxury villa.