The Stockyard really is the most delightful place for a picnic with your group or family, so why not give it a try next time you visit us?

It is a safe enclosed area, away from public areas of the park, with views our over meadows where there are a variety of animals - donkeys, horses and a pair of alpacas (a gift to a member of the Royal Family, we understand).

There are a number of picnic tables and access to toilets close by. There is also a paved area adjacent with benches should the grass be wet and you don't want wet feet!

And should you be unlucky enough to choose a day when the weather is unkind to you, then we can often arrange for you to use the Long Gallery, a room in the Stockyard with tables and chairs which can take 20 or more people. We can also arrange for use of an urn to make hot drinks should you wish.

And as an added attraction you have a unique opportunity to see the donkeys, Hannibal and Elsa, and the two alpacas. These are a very popular attarction with many of our young visitors. And you may just be lucky enough to be able to pick blackberries if you come at the right time of year.

Hannibal