Summer isn’t just about eating outside. It’s about following your appetite wherever it leads. That might mean a berry-stained afternoon at a pick-your-own farm, a seafood sandwich on a coastal wall, or a lazy picnic under a tree. Some of the most memorable meals are the ones that come with a bit of sunshine and a story.
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A season for spontaneous snacks, long lunches and a little culinary wandering… You don’t need a plane ticket. Just a map, a cool bag and maybe a spare cardigan in case the breeze picks up. Here are a few ideas for food-filled days out.
There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering your dinner on the same day you eat it. Visit a good farm shop or local market and fill your basket with whatever looks good. Think fat tomatoes, crusty bread, just-laid eggs or an unusual local cheese. Even if you’re not sure what to cook, something will come together when you get home. Take a cool bag and plan to make a day of it.
A summer classic for good reason. Whether it’s strawberries, blackberries or runner beans, picking your own is a peaceful, satisfying way to spend a morning. Afterwards, bake a crumble, fold fruit through whipped cream or just eat it straight from the punnet. Bring wet wipes if you’re taking children. And don’t wear white.
Not a sad sandwich and a juice box. We’re talking slices of tart, tubs of couscous, fresh fruit, sparkling water and a generous helping of something sweet. Bring a good blanket, real napkins and a proper knife. Add a thermos of coffee or a bottle of chilled wine. And don’t forget a bin bag for the aftermath.
There’s a particular magic to eating with the sound of waves nearby. FInd a new local coastal town to explore and tuck into a crab sandwich at a harbour café, salty chips eaten straight from the paper, or artisan ice cream as you walk the promenade. Even a day trip can feel like a mini holiday if you time it right. Aim for golden hour.
Keep an eye out for supper clubs, open-fire feasts or vineyard dinners. Many pop up over summer and offer something a bit different. Often held in unusual places and run by local chefs, they’re a great way to try new flavours and meet new people. If you spot one you like, book fast. They usually sell out.
You don’t have to go far. Lay a table in the garden or set up a blanket indoors if the rain rolls in. Cook ahead where you can. A courgette and ricotta galette is easy and seasonal. Add a couple of sharing salads, a jug of something cold and a good playlist. The best hosts are relaxed ones.
Food festivals are a perfect excuse to try everything in one place. Whether it’s Taste of London, Pub in the Park or a small town’s weekend fair, there’s always something new to nibble on. You might discover your next favourite street food stall or watch a cooking demo that actually makes you want to cook. Wear comfortable shoes, go hungry, and soak up the vibe.
