The wonder of the picnic

Myself, Granny Nanny, my son, and my niece went for a trip to Rufford Abbey to make the most of a rare sunny day in July! I love it here, particularly on a dry day there is so much to see and do; lakes, ducks, swans, woodland, cafe, the historic 12th century abbey, butterflies, craft centre, art gallery, arboretum, adventure playground, an old mill, modern sculpture... it satisfies my senses and indulges my desires, as well as entertaining the kids, bonus!

I have a bit of an obsession with picnics, probably a result of my childhood spending many a day trip out in the Derbyshire Dales, Peak District, or Norfolk sitting in the car completely washed out by the usual "British summer" rain eating Waggon Wheels, salmon & cucumber rolls (cobs to us), pork pie and scotch eggs, mmmmm the best memories! From the first year Mr G.T & I started dating we have gone for daytrips and ride-outs armed with a little picnic basket packed full of goodies and delights! Somehow eating al-fresco, or even sat in the car looking out to the countryside beyond, makes the simplest of spreads taste divine. Of course the best picnics are ones where you can lay out in the sun on a giant rug, sipping wine, eating smoked salmon and various cheeses, the kids running around enjoying the freedom of the outdoors, all topped off with cake (a quintessential picnic item!) However, good weather isn't a necessary ingredient, you can even have a picnic sat indoors on a rug in your conservatory, or inside a play house as the rain patters down, as long as there are nibbles, a lack of cutlery and you are sat around in good company enjoying the occasion, it's a memorable picnic!