How To Have a Posh Picnic

The weather is beginning to turn, and the nights are drawing in, but don’t worry; there is still time to squeeze in a few autumnal activities before the temperature drops. Having a picnic is a fantastic, cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors and relax with scrumptious treats and good company. However, it needn’t be all about pre-packaged sausage rolls and lukewarm pop. Consider inviting some loved ones to dine al-fresco in your favourite nature spot and flex your culinary skills with lovingly prepared snacks. Here are some suggestions for your luxury picnic. 

Choose Your Spot

Your ideal picnic spot will be accessible, scenic and not too busy. On sunnier days, ensure you select an area with plenty of tree shade and be prepared for any unforeseen downpours. 

Having an area to yourselves would be perfect, but sadly, not everybody lives within a stone’s throw of open countryside or vast woodland. Even a quiet corner of your local park or nature reserve can serve as an excellent picnicking location. It may be worth checking the National Trust website for suitable locations within your area. If all else fails, why not set up in your garden?

Consider Comfort

Think about how you can maximise comfort for a pleasant dining experience. Plush blankets, rugs and pillows will make sitting on the ground easier on troublesome joints. Consider layering your blankets atop yoga mats for extra cushioning. 

Foldable low picnic tables can be easily transported and set up wherever needed. You can purchase these handy pieces of outdoor furniture from most camping outlets. Cover your table with a gingham linen tablecloth for an extra touch of luxury and romantic whimsy. 

Prepare Your Food

The ultimate posh picnic consists of a tantalising homemade spread that is a delight for the senses. You needn’t stuff your picnic basket to the brim with dry scotch eggs and soggy sandwiches. Instead, opt for classic flavoursome treats that travel well, such as:

Pair Your Wine

Once you’ve decided on your menu, selecting perfectly matched wine is an excellent way to enhance the culinary experience. You don’t need to be a seasoned wine connoisseur to get it right. Following a few simple rules will result in your food and drink working together harmoniously. 

Match the intensity of your food to your wine - delicate to delicate, bold to bold. Wines with a relatively high alcohol content pair well with rich, full-flavoured dishes, whereas lighter varieties compliment lightweight food such as fish or poultry. For example, a light, fluffy smoked trout and horseradish pate would suit a sophisticated, crisp white such as Chablis. 

Get a Quality Picnic Basket

A top-quality wicker picnic hamper is not only adorable but highly practical. With secure compartments for your plates, utensils and food items, you can pack everything neatly in place without fear of breakage or spillage. Some hampers are more durable than others and feature details such as insulation and straps for comfortable portability, so it’s worth splashing out for a superior product.

Wet and Dry Coolers

Along with your charming picnic basket, you may want to bring wet and dry coolers for chilled products. A wet cooler will keep your beverages nice and frosty, and a dry cooler can be kitted out with ice packs to keep food items fresh. Hot liquids like soup and tea can be kept warm for hours with a thermos. You could even purchase a smart mug, which will allow you to control the temperature of its contents via your smartphone. 

Clean Up

It is vital to remember that beauty spots will only be there for us to enjoy so long as we do our part to maintain them. Be responsible and respect your surroundings. Protect wildlife and landscapes by following the Countryside Code - information on which can be found on the official UK government website. You can minimise waste by forgoing disposable plates, cups and cutlery in favour of reusable, biodegradable products made from bamboo.