Every year with the slightest glimmer of warm weather, we roll out the blankets and indulge in the our favourite past time, a picnic. This tradition has become so beloved, it has been recognised with a special week; 15th – 24th June is officially National Picnic Week!
The term picnic dates back to the late 17th century with two notable terms: the German – 1740–50; Pic-nic and the French word: ‘piquenique’. However, the word is not recorded in the English language until the late 18th century. This form of the picnic was not necessarily held outdoors but simply meant that a guest would bring something to the occasion, e.g - wine/food.
Bringing food is perhaps the toughest choice of any ‘picnicker’ who is trying to cater to the taste of the masses. Back in the 18th-century wine and baked hams were brought to soldiers to eat ‘al fresco’ with aristocracy bringing hampers filled with fine wine and savoury snacks.
Although savoury pastries such as sausage rolls and sandwiches do prove popular today, studies have shown that as a nation we are becoming more adventurous with our pallets, and in recent years the popularity of Hummus has increased to become one of the staples found in our picnic basket.
Picnics are a wonderful way to bring the family together, enjoy nice weather or be swept away by a loved one on a romantic picnic date. At our four Elite Hotel properties we have the perfect setting for any style of picnic, so whether you like to pack your own or treat yourself to one of our delicious picnics see what tickles your taste buds from our selection below…
Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club
Set in 186 acres of beautiful Sussex countryside and surrounded by immaculate lawns, secret gardens, lakes and woodland trails, Ashdown Park is the ideal location for a Picnic (available between April and September). There is a choice of a traditional summer picnic (from £22.50 per person), Ashdown’s Luxury Picnic hamper (from £29.50 per person) or why not escape to the grounds with the ever popular Ashdown Afternoon Tea picnic (£26.00 per person/ £48.00 per couple).
For more information please contact the Ashdown Park reservations team on: 01342 824988.
Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens – Garden Party
Sunday 15th July
With live music from Salisbury Big Band in the beautiful grounds of Tylney Hall, bring a blanket, kick off your shoes and enjoy the summer sun (fingers crossed!)
You are welcome to pack your own picnic, or pre-order a picnic hamper with us (limited availability).
Alternatively, take full advantage of our hot food section, strawberries & cream and a pop-up bar.
£20.00 per person
£5 children and under 5s go free.
For more information or to book please contact Marion Bampton on 01256 745533.
Alternatively for those who prefer their a BBQ in warm weather rather than a picnic here are a few dates for the Diary...
Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa
Every Friday in July & August
Join from 6:30 pm for delightful summer dining. Our BBQ's will be hosted on the terrace and garden behind the Robert Adam's Suite in the Country Club.
£28 per person, children half price.
For more information: https://www.lutonhoo.co.uk/country-club-summer-bbqs-2018 or to book please call: 01582 734437.
The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
Jazz Summer Barbecues on the Chatsworth Terrace
Saturdays from noon 7th July – 8th September
Enjoy a wonderfully relaxing al fresco lunch at our weekly Jazz Barbecue on the Chatsworth Terrace overlooking the outdoor pool.
Delicious food is cooked outdoors for the perfect barbecue taste served with foot-tapping sounds from the live Jazz Band…. Dancing on the terrace is encouraged!
£26.00 per person
Children’s menu up to 12 years old at £16.00 each
To book please contact the reservation team on 01323 412345.