Pack a Proper British Picnic

 
Oh yes, the brighter days, the sense of freedom and the quaint seasonal traditions. They’re all here, and with them comes one such tradition that not only epitomises summer, but has also stood the test of time and entertained generations…The Picnic.
 
Of course, you don’t want just any old slapdash picnic. So read on to see how to pack a Proper British Picnic, Little Cherry style.
 
Sarnies and Scones:
 
Sandwiches, scones, scotch eggs and pork pies…these traditional British bites work a treat with a little salad, and they’re easy to pack and carry. There are Continental additions to the traditional picnic menu too, like antipasti and mezzes of various kinds.
 
As for the afternoon’s refreshments, you’ll want to pack a flask of hot water for tea, as well as cooling drinks like freshly made lemonade (mix it up with pink lemonade too), and even flavoured waters, infused with things like berries, mint and elderflower.
 
Oh – and don’t forget to pack the Pimms!
 
Go with Gingham:
 
In terms of both practicality and prettying the place up, go with gingham. Even if you pick the right time and place – where the ground isn’t soggy on bottoms – you will want something soft and comfortable to sit on.
 
A gingham sheet or blanket is ideal and very traditional. Even if you’re at a picnic spot with tables and benches, you can incorporate a touch of check with paper napkins and a gingham sheet to throw over the table top.
 
And if you’re at home having a back garden picnic? Well, hang some gingham bunting for an all-out gingham theme.
 
BYOB (Bring Your Own Basket!):
 
Now, just because a picnic is a DIY dining affair does not mean it is just another packed lunch. Picnics hold a special place in our hearts because they are fun and full of surprises.
 
You can make what you like, pack it in a pretty hamper, and take it wherever you want to go. The beauty is in the basket. And if you want your picnic hamper to be especially useful, leaving no waste in a way that makes your life easier and your day eco-friendly, check out our disposable picnic packs.
 
Fun and Games:
 
Whilst the food will be the focal point of everyone’s afternoon, you will want to come up with some form of entertainment too.
 
It might be something as simple as a game of I-Spy or Charades or you might want to pack something a little more active. If you decide on the latter, opt for traditional and beloved British sports such as a cricket set, football and skittles.
 
Other options are tug of war, sack races, and if you’re at the beach or by a lake or river, a water fight!
 
Location, Location, Location:
 
Whilst on the topic of what games to try in which picnic hotspots, it is important that you pick just the right one.
 
Of course, some picnics may happen spontaneously when you’ve packed a lunch, and you decide to stop en route to wherever it is you’re going. For planned events though, think about what kind of day you want.
 
Will everyone have fun in a country park or along a walking trail, surrounded by wide open spaces, plenty of greenery, and bright blue skies? Or are you likely to relax more and have fun with your toes in the sand (and sand in your sandwiches)?
 
There are plenty of stunning picnic-friendly places across the UK, all ready for you to explore. Alternatively, you can pick an old favourite you love going to.
 
These five steps to a Proper British Picnic are just the start. What summer dining means to you will vary, depending on your tastes and previous picnic experiences.
 
One thing is for sure though; you can’t beat noshing with your nearest and dearest, sat in the middle of nature on a summer’s day.
 
So prep your dishes, pack your hampers, and gather the troops. British Summertime awaits!