After the first London Pic-Nic Society was formed in 1801, al fresco dining gained a new level of importance amongst people in Britain. Whether enjoyed in one of the royal parks, conveniently located near hotels in Bayswater area, London or lush green open spaces, an outdoor picnic is a much-loved British tradition and a vital part of London culture.
Venturing into London’s great outdoors with a heaving picnic hamper is without a doubt, one of the greatest joys of summertime in the city. But before you settle down in a shady spot to snaffle your sandwiches and wine, there’s plenty for you to know about the traditional British picnic. Read through this blog and plan the perfect picnic for yourself!
British Picnic Staples
A blissful picnic is one of life’s simple pleasures and when it comes to a traditional British picnic, there are a few classic staples you must know about.
Food
Sandwiches, sausage rolls, scotch eggs and pies are considered classic British treats for a reason- they are all finger foods that can travel well. You can also try some unusual options like coronation chicken. As its name suggests, coronation chicken was invented to honour the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and can be enjoyed as a salad or even a sandwich filling. Remember to choose your equipment carefully, no matter the traditional favourites you choose, nothing dampens a picnic spirit more than a leaky box!
Drinks
Take inspiration from Londoners and bring a thermos of tea to share or pack some bubbly. Whether you choose to go for something refreshingly fruity or boozy, don’t forget to pack something to sip on for your picnic on a sunny day in London. Family-friendly options may include pre-chilled coolers, iced teas, and lemonade. Slightly more sophisticated palates can go for cucumber, elderflower G&Ts, or wine spritzers. If you’re planning to carry cork-sealed wine, don’t forget the bottle opener!
Sweet Treats
When it comes to packing British desserts, picnic puddings are the first to come to mind. However, these puddings can be quite tricky as they need careful handling. Loaf cakes and traybakes (a British dessert classic) will make for some ideal choices for your picnic.
Pick the Perfect Spot
An open leafy park or a pretty lakeside spot in the iconic Hyde Park, only moments away from the Grand Hotel Hyde Park will make for the perfect British-style picnic spot.
Games, Entertainment and Other Essentials
Turn your picnic into an all-day trip with lawn games, a pack of cards, a frisbee or some good books to have the perfect day out with friends and family. Take in the view of the seasonal blooms while you enjoy the experience and remember to carry a picnic blanket to sit on, hats and some suncream too.
With so many ideal picnic spots and styles to choose from at only a short walk away from our hotel in London near Hyde Park, you’re in for a treat! Make the most of summertime in London with a quintessential British picnic- the perfect way to enjoy an al fresco lunch with your cherished ones.
