We’ve all been enjoying the glorious weather recently. Heading to the local park on a sunny day is a must. Why not enjoy a lazy summer’s afternoon with a picnic?

The classic choice for a picnic is a selection of sandwiches and snacks. Today, we take a look at some other suggestions for a lunchtime picnic.

Quiche is the perfect partner to a picnic. You can fill it with your favourite ingredients, it can be eaten hot or cold, with or without cutlery. It’s easily transportable in a lunchbox and won’t easily crumble. A firm favourite is quiche Lorraine, check out this recipe from the BBC Food website.

A salad is a great tasting, light on the waistline picnic treat. It allows for a combination of flavours that seem to taste even better in the sunshine. Be experimental with ingredients and you’ll be surprised at the results. How delicious does the Peach and Roasted Vegetable Salad look?

Nothing beats a homemade pie. They may take some time making but you can store them in the freezer until you decide to go on a picnic. With a wide range of fillings, including bacon and egg, chicken and stuffing and the traditional pork pie, there is no better way to indulge.

And for afters? This decadent chocolate slice brimming with glacé cherries is an ideal snack for a picnic: serve with clotted cream and fresh rasberries.

Why not wash it all down with a refreshing, summery drink? Homemade lemonade is easy to prepare and quenches your thirst on a hot day. Just for adults – why not create your favourite cocktail to enjoy on your afternoon day off? Or if you’re really wanting to treat yourself a bottle of bubbly is just as enjoyable.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic rug. There is nothing worse than grass stains on your bottom. There’s a great range of picnic ware available at John Lewis. As well as this, be considerate of the environment by taking along a rubbish bag so you don’t leave a mess behind.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your family or friends and head out to your local park to enjoy the sunshine.