Picnics are a pinnacle occasion as we move into the summer months, whether its a simple outdoor table-top spread, or blanket by the seaside - what’s better than combining nature and food?
From prime locations to what to put in your basket, this is your ultimate picnic guide to help you get the most out of your gingham blanket and get outdoors!
Who First Started Picnic-ing?
The term picnic derives from the french term ‘pique-nique’, referring to wealthy gourmands who brought bottles of wine to restaurants and bistros when dining out. The pique-nique evolved to al-fresco meals before gaining popularity in Victorian England for people from all walks of life.
The first picnics in England were ‘medieval hunting feasts’, consisting of pastries, ham and baked meats, adjusting to the wealth of each house hold. Today, picnics typically consist of the same foods, alongside fresh fruit and vegetables.
What To Include In Your Picnic Basket
Keeping your picnic basket full of fresh, no-fuss foods is the secret to a stress-free picnic! Regardless on the location and time of day, light salads, pre-cooked meats, fresh bread and fruit are guaranteed crowd pleasers. Add a freshly-baked treat to satisfy your sweet tooth after enjoying your savoury selection.
Our artisanal flapjacks are the perfect addition to your picnic. Individually wrapped and over 20 flavours to choose from, they make for a great sweet option for your picnic basket. We recommend trying our seasonal favourites including Lemon Drizzle, White Chocolate & Raspberry, Almond Bakewell and Carrot Cake! You can order our flapjacks by visiting our online store here.
Planning a picnic to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee? Don’t miss out on our limited edition Blubilee flapjack! You can order our Blubilee flapjack here, until 31st of May.
If you’re looking for a lighter sweet treat, try our vegan energy balls. Made with fresh, high quality ingredients our energy balls are easy to digest and make for the perfect pick-me-up! You can order them here.
It is important to remember to pack more than just the food! Think of the utensils and glassware you might need on this picnic, and don’t forget the napkins. Follow our essentials list below to make sure you don’t forget the necessities.
Picnic Essentials List
- Picnic basket or bag
-
Picnic blanket
- Thermos or bottled water
- Silverware (re-usable is optimal)
- Napkins
- Reusable plates (bamboo or plastic works well here)
- Hand sanitiser
- A plastic bag for disposables
- SPF (for the warmer, sunnier days)
- Plastic or metal cups
- An Oatopia flapjack!
London’s Best Picnic Spots
- Richmond Park
The largest of London’s royal parks. Take shade under one of the park’s many ancient trees - but keep an eye out for the 650 deer!
- Hyde Park
Enjoy your picnic at Hyde Park sat by the scenic Serpentine or find a bench in the beautiful rose garden. Visit one of the many kiosks selling ice cream to cool down on the hotter days!
- Regents Park and Primrose Hill
Revel in the stunning views of London at the top of Primrose Hill, located to the north of Regents Park. Nearby you can find local coffee shops and bakers if you’re looking for tasty last minute additions to your picnic.
- Hampstead Heath
Feast your eyes on London’s skyline at the top of Parliament Hill once you have taken in the vast green space and woodland of Hampstead Heath. This is the perfect spot for a sunset feast.
- Kew Gardens
From woodlands, formal gardens, lawns to the banks of lakes, you are guaranteed to find a spot in beautiful Kew Gardens, located in Richmond.
Best Picnic Locations In The UK
England
Brill, Buckinghamshire
Close to the border of Oxfordshire, enjoy your picnic in ‘Brill on the Hill’ before making your way down to the village - but not before visiting the 17th century post mill!
Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Named as an area of outstanding natural beauty, enjoy your summer time picnic surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the sing song of birds.
Scotland
Loch Lubnaig, Highlands
Located in the stunning highlands, this is the perfect beach picnic alternative. Dip your toes into the loch before making your way back to one of the many benches on the sandy bays.
Otter’s Pool, Galloway
A picture-perfect picnic spot, Otter’s pool presents a charming forest setting. Listen closely to the gentle stream of water across the rocks.
Wales
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
Pale sand, clear water and relaxing atmosphere makes Barafundale Wales’ favourite beach picnic spot.
Llyn Padarn, Llanberis
The perfect combination of old-fashioned picnic and romantic break! Hop on the Llanberis Lake Railway and take in the amazing Snowdonia views before arriving at the grassy shore for your picnic.
Northern Ireland
Botanic Gardens, County Antrim
Stop and smell the roses at the Rose Garden in Belfast’s Botanical arena. Visit one of the earliest examples of cast iron glass houses before picking your picnic spot on the grassy areas in front of The Palm House.
Castle Ward Estate, County Down
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take in 820 acres of landscaped grounds at Castle Ward. Post-picnic, take a walk through the woodlands or explore the old castle ruins!
With our ultimate guide, we hope you make the most of the Summer months and get picnic-ing!