Days Out

Al Fresco Inspiration: 10 Things Your Family Picnic Is Missing

One of the best things you can do in this gorgeous weather is pack up a picnic and venture out into the countryside… or the beach or the local park! Picnics are a brilliant family activity because they don’t take lots of planning but sometimes I love to indulge in a few things to make the day out extra special.

I wrote a post two years ago which is more geared for picnics with younger children that you might also like to have a gander at!

My Picnic Checklist 

Rainbow picnic wine glasses, M&S 

£15

Plastic glasses (and wine) are essential. I love these M&S ones with a hint of rainbow. They’re really lightweight too so will not weigh down your picnic basket too much.

Wool picnic blanket – rainbow, Lala & Bee

£68 

Keeping with the rainbow theme, this gorgeous wool picnic blanket is big enough for the whole family to sit on. The wool is comfy to sit on, while the waterproof backing is super practical if the ground is a little damp. 

Oil cloth, Sarah K

£16.25 per half metre

Greasy fingers always make an appearance at picnics, so rather than having the little ones wipe them on your blanket, invest in an oil tablecloth. If you’re fortunate enough to find a spot with picnic benches, this definitely comes in handy. 

Acrylic tableware, The Summer House 

From £12

The Summer House tableware collection is just divine. The tumblers are my first pick but if I were going all out or throwing a garden party, I’m sure I’d be picking up the flutes, jugs and salad bowls too. 

Lidded picnic basket with check lining, Brambly Cottage

£31 (was £48)

Traditional picnic baskets can often be quite heavy but this wicker and cotton canvas one isn’t too bulky. It’s perfect for packing with delicious treats. 

Beach cooler bag, Sunny Life 

£25

There is nothing worse than warm sausage rolls… except for maybe a G&T without ice. Keep everything chilled with this Sunny Life cooler bag.

Marlo Wine

From £11.50

Marlo Wine is my new go-to for wine. I love that you can order just one bottle and there isn’t an overwhelming range to choose from: Marlo has selected the best of the best, ranging from £11.50 to £525.00. 

Smoked goods, Brown and Forest 

Brown and Forest wholesale to the likes of Hawksmoor and Fortnum and Mason and if it receives their stamp of approval, it’s bound to be top-notch. Choose from smoked meats, smoked fish, cheeses, hampers and much more. 

British made cheeses,Village Maid Cheese Ltd 

From £5

It wouldn’t be a proper picnic without a good selection of cheeses and Village Maid Cheese is my favourite for artisan cheeses. 

Mail order cakes, The Hobo

From £20

The Hobo are doing all sorts of exciting things with their pop-up coffee shop/cocktail and canape bar. If you need catering give them a call. I’m just delighted you can now order their delicious triple chocolate brownies online! 

2 Comments

  • Reply Alex Robins June 30, 2020 at 6:40 pm

    Thanks TLM. Weather looking good for next week!

  • Reply Kirsten Robins June 30, 2020 at 9:24 pm

    We tried a Brown and Forest mixed smoked hamper- sensational. Richard and Kirsten

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