The Perfect Picnic

A meander through the Great British countryside is a pleasure to be enjoyed through all seasons, but we know all too well how important it is to make the most of our sunshine while we can. What better way to celebrate summer in the countryside than with a leisurely stroll followed with a picnic?

Keep an eye out for wildlife as you walk; why not pack a pair of binoculars and a wildlife guide so you can keep a record of what you’ve come across?

A great way to truly relax and enjoy the summertime is through ‘nature bathing’, otherwise known as shinrin-yoku. This is a Japanese mindfulness method which involves immersing yourself in nature to promote relaxation, de-stress, and improve overall health and well-being. A good way to practice shinrin-yoku is by simply listening. What do you notice? Birdsong? An insect buzzing? A flowing river? A rumbling tummy? Maybe it’s time for a picnic…

While planning your picnic, consider what kind of atmosphere you’d prefer. If you like to lounge around and live it up, opt for the gardens of a grand manor house. Looking for the ultimate salt and vinegar crisp experience? You’re going to need an ocean view. Maybe you’re into the classics and want to find the perfect meadow to lay out your gingham blanket.

However you prefer to walk and picnic, be sure to follow the countryside code and leave only footprints.

Picnics have come a long way from the days of grabbing a supermarket sandwich and a multipack of crisps. As a nation, we’re rediscovering a love for the outdoors and more considered ways of enjoying being in nature. With a little planning, you can elevate a simple meal on a blanket into a delightful and relaxing experience.

The modern way of picnicking is sustainable. Ditch the plastic and, instead, pack eco-friendly utensils, cloth napkins, and bring a couple of bags to take your rubbish home in. A traditional wicker picnic basket makes it feel like a special occasion.

When it comes to food, aim for a menu that’s easy to transport and can be served cold or at room temperature. Take time to browse a farm shop and choose a few good-quality, locally-sourced items. Don’t forget plenty of cold drinks packed in a cool bag.

If you’re with a group of family or friends, a few lawn games or some playing cards can help create a fun and festive vibe.

Top picnic food ideas

• Filled wraps or flatbreads

• Sausage rolls

• Selection of bread

• Smoked salmon

• Cheese board

• Crackers

• Pâté

• Cold meats

• Crisps

• Selection of salads

• Scotch eggs

• Olives

• Crudites and homemade dips

• Fresh fruit

• Scones with jam and cream

• Tray bakes

• Individual cheesecakes

Top picnic drink ideas

• Pink lemonade

• Iced tea

• Fruit water

• Fruit smoothies

• Elderflower champagne

• Sparkling rosé wine

• Tins of Gin & Tonic

• Pimm’s

Treat yourself

If you’re heading to an event such as a flower show or festival, why not go all-out and order a picnic hamper?

They are packed with tasty food and drink and all the utensils you’ll need for a convenient, delicious meal. Many stores and farm shops sell picnic hampers for delivery or collection, and they can cater for dietary requirements.

Some of our favourite walking and picnic spots around the UK…

Scotland

• Loch Lomond, in The Trossachs National Park

• Loch an Eilein, in the Rothiemurchus Forest

North West and Cumbria

• Acorn Bank, The Lake District

• Arnside Knott, The Lake District

North East

• Wooler Common and Woodland Park, Northumberland

• Hamsterly Forest, County Durham

Yorkshire and the Humber

• Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire

• Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

East Midlands

• Elvaston Castle Country Park, Derby

• Bradgate Park, Leicester

West Midlands

• Sandwell Valley Country Park, West Bromwich

• Woodgate Valley Country Park, Birmingham

East of England

• Abberton Reservoir, Essex

• Clare Castle Country Park, Suffolk

South East

• Epsom Common, Surrey

• Kew Gardens, London

South West

• Northam Burrows Country Park, Northam

• Dartmoor National Park, Devon

Wales

• Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey

• Lake Vyrnwy, Powys