Picnic baskets for summer 2023

What is the History of the British Picnic?

Travelling picnic sets first became popular in the early 20th century when the introduction of motor vehicles allowed people to go out for the day.

Housed in portable wicker or leather cases or wicker hampers, the more sophisticated sets would contain items such as a kettle, saucepan, cutlery, enamel plates, cups, glasses, lemonade flasks, food containers and even ceramic butter and preserve jars, serving anything from two to six people or more. Some of them had a hinged front, which could be pulled down, revealing all manner of drawers and cubby holes for picnic-alia.

Later in the century, as cars became more affordable, the picnic outing remained just as popular and basic travel sets were sold that might comprise a kettle and burner, tins to keep sandwiches in, plates, cutlery and beakers for taking a drink. Post-war, look out for pretty sets made by Brexton, which are sought after by vintage collectors. Antique picnic sets can be found at auction from around £100 upwards, and the best examples can fetch several thousand pounds. ‘Collectors’ and ‘Automobilia’ sales are good places to start looking.

With King Charles III's coronation on the horizon, now is the perfect time to start planning a picnic with family and friends, whether in a local park, your back garden, or in the grounds of one of these exquisite stately homes. However, no matter the location, the perfect picnic takes some planning. Here are our favourite picnic baskets for the perfect al fresco dining experience!

Best Picnic Baskets

While not all of us may be able to get our hands on a charming vintage picnic basket, choosing and packing up the perfect picnic basket is the most important task for any picnic devotee.

The best baskets are those that are both attractive and sturdy, offering enough space to carry everything you need without being too heavy to carry to your destination.

Choose a classic vintage silhouette, fitted out with leather straps and handles, or opt for a more contemporary design with insulated pockets for the perfectly chilled bottle of wine.