There is something rather liberating about being sat outside in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, enjoying delicious food al fresco – the flavours seem to be amplified and sharpened by the freedom of the outdoors. Come rain or shine, swarm of wasps or colony of seagulls, we Brits are defiant in our endeavour to have an exceptional outdoor dining experience… regardless of whether we have to multitask eating and holding an umbrella. Is it any wonder then that we have dedicated an entire week in June to picnicking? The 19^th to the 27^th of June to be exact in National Picnic Week! If you weren’t aware of this news, now is the time to grab your basket or tote bag and find your very own secluded paradise to enjoy some good food with your loved ones. If you’re not sure where to start though, don’t worry, we’re going to do it all for you in three easy steps, whilst also featuring some of Dartmouth’s hotspots and eateries.

First things first, you need to pack all your essentials so that you can recline in absolute comfort whilst creating that perfect picnic aesthetic that your Instagram feed will love. Luckily, we have everything you might need here at Bert & Buoy - and there's 15% off picnic essentials right now, use discount code PICNIC15 - including a range of colourful, geometric tote bags to transport all your tasty treats in. It goes without saying that comfort is paramount when dining in the outdoors so take with you one of our snuggly soft blankets and a couple of our gloriously joyful cushions and recline in joyous, nautical style. Of course, you will need a few glasses to enjoy a delicious bottle of bubbly and we have that covered too with our set of beautiful glass tumblers featuring Bert’s original surface designs. Don’t forget our collection of contemporary, coastal inspired tea towels – perfect for packing food, the odd spillage and adding a splash of colour to your picnic.

       

Secondly, you will need to fill your tote or basket with all things delicious. Some picnic staples that spring mouth-wateringly to mind - freshly baked bread with creamy cheeses, succulent strawberries and a bottle of crisp bubbly. We are fortunate to have some incredible, independent food places here in Dartmouth that source some of the best local ingredients. So, if you fancy a picnic near us then here are some suggestions on what to fill your basket with and where to buy it. Your picnic basket wouldn’t be complete without a loaf of fresh, crunchy bread which is why we recommend picking one up from Saveurs, an independent French bakery that produces the most magnifique handcrafted breads, pastries and cakes. Dartmouth also offers some perfect, locally sourced cheeses. We suggest you pay a visit to one of our local deli’s, including, The Deli at Dartmouth and Smith Street Deli. To add some healthy fruit and veg to your picnic we have Jilly’s Farm Shop, located in Dartmouth’s Market Square, offering only the best, locally grown produce you can buy… it’s a win win! And to finish your picnic we recommend a glass of bubbly from Dartmouth Wine Company, an independent winery that specialises in top quality products that you won’t be able to find in any supermarket. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth you’re in for a treat with Dartmouth Ice Cream Company! They offer homemade ice cream, fudge and cream teas, all of which are available for takeaway… perfect for a picnic if we do say so ourselves.

And last, but by no means least, location. What’s great about picnicking outdoors is the endless options as to where you lay your throw for lunchtime. Whether you fancy a patch of grass nestled between rolling hills or a sandy beach overlooking the sea, you will be spoilt for choice. We have some fantastic locations close to us here in Dartmouth, including a range of golden beaches, from larger beaches such as Slapton Sands, Bantham Beach and Blackpool Sands to quiet, secluded coves like Sugary Cove near Dartmouth Castle. If you’re looking for a greener location, we recommend heading towards Dartmoor nature reserve where you will be surrounded by breathtaking countryside and endless picnicking possibilities. Woodleigh Woods, Staverton and Blackdown Hills (AONB) are just a few more of our favourite spots! 

So, grab your Bert & Buoy essentials, fill your bags full of deliciousness and get out in the great outdoors for a lazy afternoon of picnic loveliness.

PROMOTIONAL OFFER
15% off picnic essentials!! Use discount code PICNIC15 on all blankets, cushions, glassware, tote bags and tea towels. Ends 30.06.21