Put together the perfect London picnic
Ah yes, the birds are singing, the weather is (still) balmy and sunny, and it’s August—and you know what that means…It’s National Picnic Month! We’ve put together a handy guide to help you pull off the most picturesque (and tasty) picnic possible with everything sourced locally here in London. So, grab a blanket and wicker basket, and head to a shady spot in your favorite park to celebrate National Picnic Month properly.
Wicker Picnic Hamper, Fine Foods Specialist, £26.95
A picnic wouldn’t feel quite right without the quintessential wicker basket to carry all your picnicking cuisine. Fine Foods Specialist in New Covent Garden Market has you covered with their classic gingham-lined hamper. And you won’t have to worry about packing the dining essentials, as the basket includes a pair of china plates, two sets of utensils, two glasses, and even a corkscrew and salt and pepper shakers. It’s like a posh survival pack for a day braving the pollen and flies of a city park.
Sophie Allport Bees Picnic Rug, John Lewis, £35
What sets a dignified picnic apart from a mealtime gathering of savages is the blanket that separates you and the loose soil beneath. John Lewis brings just enough whimsy to their picnic rug with a pleasant honey bee print. And should the skies (finally) let loose some hydrating rain, you needn’t worry. The rug’s waterproof backing will keep the saturation away.
Sandwiches, Melrose and Morgan, starting at £2.50
With a forever-rotating weekly menu, Melrose and Morgan dishes out a diverse array of sandwiches you can buy and pack away for your picnic. Fancy a cucumber and tuna sandwich? Or maybe a ham and cheese with red onion chutney? No matter what you choose, the sandwich is handmade on artisan sourdough with locally sourced ingredients.
Cheese Board, Froth and Rind, prices vary
Choose from an overwhelming variety of cheeses—which range from an Isle of Wight blue to a cave-aged goat cheddar—to make your own DIY cheese plate. Or, you can leave it to the experts and get one of Froth and Rind’s curated cheeseboards.
Victoria Glory Cake, Konditor and Cook, £30
Nothing says “summer” quite like fresh fruit. But do you know what’s even better than sweet strawberries? Sweet strawberries on a fluffy vanilla cake that’s layered with a tangy cream cheese frosting and raspberry jam. Konditor and Cook’s Victoria Glory Cake can act as the sugary finale to your picnic.
Posh Pop from Breckland Orchard, stores and prices vary
Pop over to your nearest local independent market to pick up some Posh Pop by Breckland Orchard. The Babraham-based company boasts refreshing flavors such as Pear and Elderflower, Plum and Cherry, and Strawberry and Rhubarb. If the eclectic, natural flavours aren’t enticing enough, Breckland Orchard also refrains from using any artificial colours and stays eco-conscious by using recyclable bottles.
Rose Lemonade and Bloom Gin by Fentimans, stores and prices vary
Looking for a boozier afternoon? Try a vibrant Rose Lemonade and Bloom Gin made by Fentimans. The premixed drink can be found at most supermarkets or farm shops in London, and is brewed using all-natural ingredients.
