5 perfect places to have a picnic this summer
With the weather warming up and summer holidays on the horizon, there has never been a better time to pack your picnic basket and find a sunny spot to spread your blanket.
But instead of joining the crowds in the park, why not get the family together and seek out some different spots for your al-fresco meal? Here are some ideas to help you feel inspired…
1. A pretty woodland clearing
A walk in the woods is guaranteed to work up an appetite, so why not find a dry clearing and settle down for a picnic? Look for one with a tree stump, which you can use as a makeshift picnic table.
To add to the “secret den” vibe, ask the kids to build a border with logs or stones, and you could even use the trees above to prop up an old sheet or tarpaulin to turn it into a magical space to eat.
2. Your living room
You might be planning a picnic, but there is no guarantee that the weather will play ball. But don’t cancel it – simply lay out your blanket and picnic spread on your living room floor instead.
You can even transform your living room into a summer meadow with these easy tricks: dot the room with flowers (fake ones are fine) and play bird song instead of music. You can bring the smells of summer to your picnic too, by washing your blanket, clothes and linens with Bold 3in1 Pods. Choose from the gorgeous seasonal scents of Lavender & Camomile, Lotus Flower & White Lily, Sparkling Bloom & Yellow Poppy, and Gold Orchid & Moringa, and your home will smell of summer every day, even if it’s pouring outside.
3. A historical house
There are beautiful stately homes up and down the country, and many of them are open to the public during the summer months. Take a tour to see how the other half lives, then settle down in the grounds for your picnic. There are always loads of activities for the kids too – from mazes to nature trails. To find places to visit near you, go to english-heritage.org.uk.
4. A hilltop with a view
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you tuck into your picnic with a view. Don’t be put off by having to hike up a hill – even a gentle incline will reward you with better views than you would get at ground level.
To help, instead of a classic picnic box or basket, invest in a specialist rucksack that has slots for your tableware, beakers, food and drink. It will be much easier to carry up the hill, and will help you keep your balance.
5. Gorgeous gardens
Botanical, Japanese, topiary, walled… there are a huge variety of gardens to visit all over the UK. You can’t fail to be inspired when you’re surrounded by pretty flowers and beautiful blooms.
Some gardens have a café on site, so may have rules about allowing picnics. If this is the case, simply stock up on sandwiches at the café and find a bench among the flowers. This is much nicer than eating inside a gloomy café with everyone else.
Where’s your favourite place to have a picnic? Let us know in the comments section below.