EDITION 16
Five Underrated Picnic Spots in Newcastle’s Inner Suburbs
(and where to grab a nearby bite to eat)
When it comes to picnics, Newcastle’s beaches and bushland usually steal the spotlight, but there are plenty of tucked-away green spaces in the Inner Suburbs that are just as picnicworthy. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly patch of grass or a quiet spot for a solo lunch, these underrated parks offer shade, serenity and space to unwind. Even better? Each is close to a local café where you can pick up some goodies or get caffeinated before settling in.
1. Kotara Park
This park offers plenty of open space to spread out or kick a ball, a huge covered picnic area and a fairly new playground for the kids. Despite being on a busy road, it feels quite sheltered from the street with lots of shade surrounding the park.
Corner of Park Avenue & Grayson Streets, Kotara
Grab and go from:
Letter Q Café
5 Joslin Street, Kotara
A neighbourhood favourite offering toasties, fresh salads, and top-tier baked goods. They also do takeaway grazing or picnic boxes that can be ordered in advance.
2. Adamstown Park
Right off Glebe Road, this spacious park has a great kids’ playground, covered picnic tables, and lots of room to kick a ball. Best of all, it’s super close to not one but two great cafés.
261 Glebe Road, Adamstown
Grab and go from:
The Bondwood Cafe
504 Glebe Road, Adamstown
Right next door to the park you’ll find this coffee van for easy takeaway options including toasties, pastries, acai bowls and more.
Grab and go from:
Local Customs
513 Glebe Road, Adamstown
For something a bit more substantial, head over the road to Local Customs. Quicker bites like focaccia sandwiches or sausage rolls can be made to take away.
3. Claremont Reserve
This hidden gem is nestled in a residential pocket but feels like a proper green escape. With tall trees, shady benches, a playground and walking paths, it’s ideal for a quiet family picnic or a lunch break surrounded by birdsong.
Claremont Avenue, Adamstown Heights
Grab and go from:
Westifeld Kotara Food Court or Brunker Road Cafés
Stock up on sushi, salads or wraps from Westfield – or swing by Brunker Road for something more local.
4. Laneway Park
Blink and you’ll miss this cute little neighbourhood park in the heart of Adamstown. There’s a fairly new playground, community gardens, picnic tables and plenty of open space. It’s also fully fenced, so great for little ones who are prone to wander.
Fletcher Street, Adamstown
Grab and go from:
Wild Vine Coffee
4/10 William Street, Adamstown
Speciality coffee, simple toasties and a range of light treats can be found at this tucked away gem.
5. Gregson Park
Following expansive recent upgrades, this is a must-visit spot. There’s a huge playground for kids of all ages, bike tracks, covered picnic tables and BBQs, toilets and beautiful rose gardens to explore. There’s also plenty of green space away from the playground for those wanting a bit more quiet!
Tudor Street, Hamilton
Grab and go from:
Spur
4 Samdon Street, Hamilton
A popular spot for coffee, specialty iced drinks, house-baked cakes and pastries and light brunchy meals. Need more options? Beaumont Street is super close!