Although summer is technically here in the UK (despite what the weather may be saying otherwise), it’s never too late to start thinking about ideas for the perfect picnic. Here in this article is everything you need to plan the perfect picnic.
First things first, you need to decide where you might want to have your picnic. Here are a few of my favourite places to go for the ideal picnic spot…
Where To Go For Your Picnic
- A beautiful park
- The beach
- A historic landmark (The National Trust)
- Your back garden
- Zoo or Amusement Park
- On top of a hill with fantastic views
However, if none of these options are jumping out at you, simply try googling “best picnic spots in (INSERT YOUR LOCATION)”.
What Equipment To Take On Your Picnic
OK, so now you know the location of your fabulous picnic, it’s time to think about what you might need to take on your picnic. These are some of the essentials we take with us on a simple picnic…
- Blanket to sit on
- A cushion if it’s on a hard surface
- Some napkins
- Cutlery (if needed)
- Plates and cups
- Perhaps a fold out table if you don’t want to be eating on the floor
- Maybe some lightweight games to play during and afterwards
Now you have your location and the picnic essentials, it’s time to think about the food and drink you might take.
Drink Ideas For Your Picnic
1. Wines
If it’s going to be a more adult based picnic then perhaps take a bottle of your favourite wine with you. Something like this red Zinfandel from Barefoot Wines would go perfectly with the antipasti option below. With its rich and smooth notes, filled with the flavours of black cherries and juicy summer raspberries.
Personally, we love a good bottle of red wine in our house so this would be our first choice. However, white wine also goes perfectly with a summer picnic, so go with what you love most. Barefoot Wines have a huge selection of wines to choose from, so whether you love red, white or rose, they’re sure to have something perfect to take on your picnic.
2. Fizzy Pop
If you don’t drink alcohol, or don’t fancy it, perhaps a few bottles of your favourite fizzy drink could be a good option. Pre-bottled drinks are great for picnics as they can easily be kept cool alongside the food and can be easier to hand out to guests individually. My go to for picnics in the summer was a cool bottle of Orangina with a straw.
3. Homemade Lemonade
OK, so if you have some time on your hands, or like to get a bit fancy, then how about taking some homemade lemonade with you! Or some store bought lemonade if time isn’t on your side. It’s such a customisable beverage to have on a picnic to make your own. Add a few sprigs of thyme, or some slices of lemon or orange to really make it something special.
Easy Picnic Food Ideas
1. Watermelon Slices
This is such a simple one for a picnic that can be made in minutes! The perfect starter or dessert option and ideal for a hot summers day.
2. Stacked Sandwiches
You just can’t beat a stacked sandwich on a picnic! Pack it full of your favourite ingredients, wrap it in baking paper and you’re good to go. Whether it’s a light salad sandwich, or something more decadent like brie and cranberry!
3. Homemade Sausage Rolls
OK, so they don’t necessarily have to be homemade, but sausage rolls are idea to take on a picnic outing – even when they’re cold. The delicious melt in the mouth pastry crumbling allover you as you take a bite. The tasty filing giving you all the feels of a summer picnic with friends.
4. Cake!
Keep it light with a delicious slice of cake of pudding. You simply can’t beat the Victoria sponge cake for a traditional British dessert.
It’s also one you can pre-assemble for your picnic basket (whether bought or homemade), so you can spend more time enjoying time with your family.
5. Mason Jar Cheesecakes (No Bake)
If you love cheesecake then these mini mason jar cheesecakes are ideal to take on a picnic – and how cute! They can be customised to any flavour combination you love, and are easily packed into a picnic basket as a sweet treat.
6. Antipasti
However, you could simply take a selection of your favourite cooked meats and cheeses and pair them with your favourite wine. Possibly not a picnic idea if children are involved but it makes the ideal picnic for adults. You could even add in a few olives, nuts and a few grapes too!
How would you create the perfect picnic? What food and drink would you take with you and where would you go on your picnic? Do you prefer the secluded spots deep in the countryside? Or, do you prefer the hustle and bustle around you while you relax and unwind with friends and family?
Collaborative Post
Leave a Reply