Perfect Day for a Picnic

Ring in 'al fresco' season with an idyllic picnic under the sun. Here are five things you'll need to host the perfect outing - weather permitting, of course!

Whether you're planning a day in the park or a leisurely picnic in your garden, here are the five main ingredients for the perfect outdoor eating experience. Simply mix one part sunshine with one part friends, then stir in some of these great ideas!

Nibbles: Naturally, you'll need one of these wicker picnic baskets, filled to the brim with snacks. We suggest plenty of finger foods, such as chopped up carrots, scotch eggs and good old fashioned sarnies. As for a main course, a ready-to-cook gammon joint from M&S would be an easy way to pre-prepare some cold and delicious ham, or if you're up for lugging it to the park, freshly grilled meats on a portable barbecue will make your picnic an instant and delicious hit.

Tipple: A choice selection of beer and cider will always be appreciated, but why not celebrate summer with a special treat, such as a Mojito, a refreshing cocktail made with white rum, lime juice, sugar, soda and a sprig of fresh mint. You could also serve up a classic Pimms No1 on ice, or go all bubbly with a champagne toast. A unique choice would be this pink treat, Champagne Oudinot Rose conveniently sold in cases of six.

Frolic: Work up an appetite with an outdoor game, such as this giant-sized jenga tumble tower, a croquet set, or simply bring along a football for a friendly kickabout. As for setting the mood, nothing does it better than music. Get your picnic grooving with a rechargeable and portable speaker system for your iPod, such as the Logitech MM50, or for a low-tech option, this Morphy Richards wind-up worldband radio requires no batteries and no recharging.

Sun smarts: A day in the sun can be hazardous to your health without protection, especially after a long and gloomy winter. If you're picnicking on a treeless green, consider bringing along a parasol or this elegant sunsail for some artificial shade, and don't forget the sunscreen: this online suncare selector , courtesy of Boots, can help you choose what level of sun protection is right for you.

Plan B: Weather not playing along? If you've been rained out, lay out your picnic blanket indoors and enjoy the foods you've prepared with paper plates, picnic-style on the floor. Accenting the room with a selection of stunning sunflowers and garden candles will help bring the outdoor vibe into your home. If that doesn't infuse your meal with enough of a picnic feel, then distract your guests with an indoor game, such as Sega's Football Manager. Your guests will be so busy managing their own football league, they won't care that your game's been rained out.