As the weather gets warmer, I want to get outside as much as possible. Eating in the garden or on a picnic is such a treat. And it just happens to be National Picnic Week! So I've put together some ideas for an afternoon tea style picnic, combining 2 of my favourite meals.
Pick the perfect spot
You want to choose somewhere a bit secluded with a nice view. Think about whether you want to have a walk before you stop, or if you'd rather have a short trip straight to the picnic. A tree to lean against or give you shade is nice too.
As the roses have just come out, we chose the rose garden in Ashton Court in Bristol so that we could enjoy the colours and fragrance in the air while we had our picnic. I love these big bright pink flowers!
What to pack
Practical containers can also be pretty. Things like vintage tins and kilner jars and bottles look great and can be used for a variety of foods and drinks.
I've compiled a collection of picnic essentials here if you'd like a look!
You will need:
- A picnic blanket
- Basket
- Small jars
- Flask
- Tea towels
- 2 tins or tupperware
- Cups, plates, tray and cutlery
- Cushions
Tea towels work well for wrapping up bread and scones, and can then be used to wrap up the dirty dishes and cups after you've eaten! I've used one to line the tin too, so I can keep the sandwiches and cupcakes separate.
What to eat
I wanted to keep the traditional aspects of an afternoon tea but make sure it's all portable enough for a cute picnic in the sun. Sandwiches could have lots of different fillings, or keep it classic like I have with cucumber.
On my menu is:
- Cucumber sandwiches
- Scones with jam and clotted cream
- Cupcakes
- Strawberries
- Tea or coffee
- Cans of ready mixed Mimosa's or Bellini's or a mini bottle of prosecco if you want to make it extra special!
I love cucumber sandwiches! They're so simple and so delicious with just a bit of butter, thin slices of cucumber and some salt and pepper. Cut the crusts off and slice into thin fingers for an extra fancy look.
A nice cup of tea or coffee in a flask is what you need to wash all the cake down. Take the milk separately in a little bottle so that it stays as hot as possible.
And let's not forget the cake! A variety of small cupcakes in different flavours, and of course some scones. Take little jars with jam and clotted cream to add when you're there. And a jar of strawberries to finish it off.
Let me know if I've inspired you to have a picnic! And you can see more inspiration on my dedicated Pinterest board here.
