With the weather improving and the cost of living situation set to continue, some may be looking to cut costs from their day trips in the countryside.
So why not take a picnic instead of eating out? After all, there is one beauty spot in Northumberland which has just been named one of the top places to have a picnic in the UK - and it's within easy reach of Newcastle, Hexham and Hadrian's Wall.
Plankey Mill, which is on the National Trust's Allen Banks to Staward Gorge walk just off the A69 in West Northumberland, has come second in a survey of the UK's top picnic spots, beaten only by Loch an Eilein in the Cairngorms National Park.
Read more: From hostels to castles: Where to stay near Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland
To get to the old mill, you'll walk through one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in Northumberland. On a hot summer's day, you can cool off with a spot of wild swimming there too - just make sure to leave plenty of time after eating before going in the water.
It's a great spot to take children too, with flat stones to skim across the river and lots of wildlife to look out for. Native creatures include otter, heron and upwards of 70 more bird species.
And for those who just can't tear themselves away from this secluded gem, there's a campsite for overnight stays. Plankey Mill wasn't the North East's only representation on the list, with Rising Sun Country Park in Benton, North Tyneside also getting a mention.
It's right next to a supermarket too, which is handy if you've forgotten any items. The list of the best picnic spots in the UK was compiled by holidaycottages.co.uk.
How to get to Plankey Mill
For those arriving by car, you can park in the National Trust Allen Banks to Staward Gorge pay and display car park. The walk is signposted from there. For those using public transport, take the bus or train to Bardon Mill which is around 45 minutes on foot from the car park.
The top six picnic spots in the UK
1. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park
2. Plankey Mill, Northumberland
3. Lake Vyrnwy, Powys
4. Brownsea Island, Dorset
5. Box Hill, Surrey
6. Cotswolds Way, Cotswolds
