The warmer weather is finally approaching and many Londoners are eager to enjoy the great outdoors. One of the best things to do during spring and summer is to enjoy a a delicious picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks.
However, organising such an event can be challenging. To help you out, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to managing a successful picnic in London this summer. We have asked Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, to give us some tips and pieces of advice regarding this matter.
Best Type of Food and Drinks for Picnics: Simple and Sustainable
For food and drinks for your picnic, simplicity and sustainability are key. Rather than spending a fortune on fancy food and beverages, opt for simple yet delicious options that are easy to prepare and transport. For example, you could prepare sandwiches, and bring fruit, vegetables and crips for snacking.
Instead of providing all the drinks yourself, encourage your guests to bring their own to share. This reduces costs for you and creates a communal atmosphere where everyone can try different drinks and share their favourites.
If you want to save money on food and drinks, check supermarkets like Farmfoods, which usually has a more competitive price than other supermarkets in the UK.
Choosing the Right Location: Strategic and Serene
Choosing the right location is one of the most important aspects of organising a picnic. You want a place that is both strategic and serene. Tom Church says, “When selecting a location, consider accessibility, distance, and amenities. You want a location easily accessible by public transport or car but also has enough greenery and space for your guests.”
In addition, “Hosting your picnic in a public park is not only cheaper, but it’s also more fun and less stressful. You can enjoy the natural beauty of London’s parks while having a great time with your guests.” Some of the best parks in London for picnics include Hyde Park, Regents Park, Hampstead Heath and Greenwich Park. And in Shoreditch you will find the Shoreditch Park, and close by the cool London Fields and Victoria Park. These parks offer beautiful scenery, plenty of space, and facilities like toilets and water fountains.
What to Do During a Picnic: Have Fun and Relax
Keeping your guests entertained during a picnic can be a challenge. Instead of planning all the games and activities yourself, encourage your guests to bring their own to share.
While planning and organising your picnic is important, enjoying the moment and having fun are equally important. After all, the purpose of such an event is to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Tom says, “Remember to take a break from all the planning and enjoy the day. Eat some food, make some drinks, play some games and don’t stress too much about the details, and let the day unfold naturally.”
What Not to Do During a Picnic
When organising a picnic in a public park, it’s essential to respect other park-goers. This means avoiding littering, making excessive noise, or disturbing other people’s activities. Tom Church says, “When you’re hosting an event in a public space, respecting other people’s enjoyment of the park is important. Keep your area tidy, record music reasonably, and avoid leaving your trash behind. This will ensure you have a pleasant experience and that others can enjoy the park as well.”
How to Care For Kids and Older People During Picnics: Considerate and Comfortable
Caring for kids and older people during a picnic can be challenging, especially when keeping them entertained and comfortable. You can bring along some outdoor toys to keep kids occupied. For older people, it’s important to ensure that they have a comfortable seating arrangement and access to necessary amenities such as toilets and water fountains. You can also consider bringing a portable shade or umbrella to provide them with some respite from the sun.
Organising a successful picnic in London requires careful planning, consideration, and a willingness to be flexible. Following the tips outlined above, ensure your event is enjoyable and respectful towards others and the environment. As Tom says, “Picnics are a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and spend quality time with your loved ones. With some planning and creativity, you can make your event one to remember.” So pack your picnic basket, and head to one of London’s beautiful parks for fun and relaxation.