English Picnic – Champagne, Pimm's, and a Plaid Blanket
April 28, 2026
Column by Dr. Katarzyna Krzyżagórska-Pisarek
Spring doesn't burst forth suddenly in England; rather, it "rolls on" slowly, often hesitantly, alternating between sunshine and scattered showers. However, as early as March and April, as soon as the first warmer days arrive, the English announce the unofficial start of picnic season. It's the moment everyone looks forward to after a long, damp winter. Picnics here are not just a way of spending free time, but a part of national identity and an important social ritual.
The English, regardless of social class, love to feast outdoors. However, the true masters of picnic etiquette remain the upper classes, who gather on perfectly manicured lawns during prestigious events in places like Ascot, Henley-on-Thames, Eton (especially on July 4th), and Glyndebourne. There, the picnic becomes almost a spectacle: elegant attire, fancy hats, folding chairs, tartan blankets, and impressive wicker hampers filled with exquisite food.
Preparing such a picnic can take hours. Every detail counts: from the carefully selected menu, to the perfectly chilled drinks, to the aesthetics of the presentation. It's not uncommon to create a makeshift bar from the open trunk of a car, complete with a small tent from which drinks are served to family and friends. After all, a snobbish picnic isn't just about the food; it's also about getting noticed, observing people, and, of course, making an impression. This is accompanied by lighthearted conversation, the obligatory small talk, peals of laughter, and constant toasting with a glass of champagne or Pimm's (a gin-based liqueur).
Dogs are also an integral part of such gatherings – calm, well-behaved, and welcome everywhere. They prowl among the blankets, discreetly stealing treats and complementing the idyllic atmosphere. The contents of a traditional English hamper may be surprising. Instead of exotic delicacies or Mediterranean cuisine, native English dishes, often inspired by the Edwardian era (1901–1910), reign supreme. In spring, the hamper includes hot sausages, quiche, pâté, hard-boiled eggs, chocolate cakes, and a thermos of coffee. The bar stocks whiskey, brandy, gin, beer, and wine.
In summer, the menu becomes lighter: roast chicken and sausages served cold, crab sandwiches, fresh fruit, and the obligatory Pimm's. This iconic drink, extremely popular among the upper classes, is prepared in a large jug with lemonade, fruit, mint, ice, and—characteristically—cucumber slices. It is served with panache, often with a silver ladle, adding a touch of elegance to the entire ritual.
The most lavish picnics can even resemble outdoor parties: linen napkins, a set table, sherry consommé, smoked salmon, strawberries or raspberries with cream, and chilled champagne. Those who don't want to prepare their own feast can order ready-made baskets from the legendary London department store Fortnum & Mason, a symbol of British luxury and tradition.
The one thing that can always ruin even the best-planned picnic is… the English weather. Capricious, changeable, and full of surprises – even in the middle of summer. Despite this, the English don't give up. Because spring and summer in England are, above all, about the art of making the most of every moment of sunshine and celebrating life on the green grass.
Dr. Katarzyna Krzyżagórska-Pisarek
Art historian, writes reviews of London exhibitions, paints copies of old masters' paintings, conducts research on Rubens, author of the book "Life in English", published by Pracownia Słów.
