Preparing The Perfect Picnic

In the spirit of our al fresco dining theme, we return to that quintessentially British classic: the picnic! With summer finally here (for now…), there’s nothing quite like a tartan blanket or flower-print spread and a wicker basket to bring about thoughts of cucumber sandwiches, strawberries and Pimms while we kick back in the long grass.

It helps to be prepared and to have a sturdy container: picnic basket, coolbox or otherwise. Trying to relax and enjoy the day can be hampered (!) slightly by having to lug around heavy bags.

So you know you’ll need a picnic basket, a blanket to sit on, maybe a couple of pillows to make the floor more comfortable, but what are the other things you should definitely take with you?

Let’s start off with some basics:

• A jam jar (and lid!): essential for things like salad dressings that can be pre-prepared and shaken up on arrival
• Kitchen roll, wet wipes, tissues, bin bags… any or all of the above! They’re easily forgotten but essential for addressing the cleanup situation
• Enamel or plastic plates and cutlery: no-one’s a fan of soggy paper plates

Prepare easy and interesting things to eat beforehand. Large Tupperware boxes of salad can be bulky, but pitta bread stuffed with salad and the option to add chicken pieces, cheese, olives etc. still ensures you get the good stuff without carrying extra weight.

Try to avoid sticky and sweet things: apart from the obvious health benefits of packing a healthier picnic, these foods are insect-magnets and will have the wasps and ants hovering all afternoon.

Take only a few things, but make them good things. If you’re up for the challenge of homemade, even better! Think pork pies, sausage rolls, cucumber and carrot sticks with hummus or mini sandwiches and pitta wraps.

Local parks are a great and easy spot for picnics but be sure to check in advance whether your nearest green space allows picnics, alcohol, ball games and/or animals.

In summer especially, bugs are pretty much guaranteed company at your picnic. Depending on where you’re going, it can help to take a citronella candle but always make sure it’s safe. If in doubt, don’t forget the bug spray. You’ll also need some sun tan lotion if you’re going to be sat outside for a while. Nothing ruins the happy memory of a picnic like the pain of sunburn! Many lotions have insect repellents built in too so check the labels. 

Take a few games, especially if you’re picnicking with kids. A football or frisbee can keep them entertained for hours, while for adults a pack of cards will pass the hours in a particularly English fashion.

What are your top picnic tips and recipe suggestions? Don’t forget you can find some great food inspiration from our website.