How to Create an Autumn Picnic
There’s something truly magical about autumn picnics, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, the earthy smell of freshly fallen rain, and the crispness in the air that calls for cosy blankets and warm drinks. Every year, as the season changes and Somerset is awash in rich reds, golds, and browns, my family and I love heading out for an autumnal picnic. We love nothing more than to find a quiet spot in the woods near our home, surrounded by towering trees, wrapped up in layers, we devour bowls of hearty pumpkin soup, the boys kick through piles of leaves, and I could spend hours taking photos of them. It’s those perfect, spontaneous moments that I cherish and proof that sometimes the simplest days are the most memorable.
Today, I want to share with you how to recreate that autumn magic with a picnic of your own. Whether you’re a seasoned picnic enthusiast or just looking for a new way to embrace the season, these tips and seasonal recipes will help you craft a cozy, delicious outdoor meal that you and your family can enjoy.
Seasonal Recipe Ideas for an Autumn Picnic
Warm Roasted Vegetable Salad
There’s something so comforting about roasted vegetables, and they’re a staple in our home as soon as autumn arrives. This salad is perfect for an outdoor picnic because it can be served warm and packed in an insulated container to keep the chill at bay.
Ingredients: Roasted carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash, tossed with fresh greens and topped with a light mustard vinaigrette.
Tip: Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of crumbled local cheese on top, it’s a simple but delicious way to elevate the dish.
Roasted veggies have always been a go-to in my autumn recipe rota, and I often prepare trays of them on Sundays, and it’s one of those dishes that easily transitions from the dinner table to a container in a picnic basket.
Hearty Pumpkin Soup in a Thermos
When the temperature drops, I always turn to a good soup, and pumpkin is my absolute favourite for autumn. Rich and creamy, this pumpkin soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and keeping it in a thermos means you can enjoy it hot, even if it’s blustery outside.
Ingredients: Pureed pumpkin, onion, garlic, vegetable stock, a dash of cream, and a sprinkle of nutmeg for that autumnal warmth.
Tip: Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and don’t forget your spoon!
Soups have long been a popular choice for picnics in the colder months? There’s a certain nostalgia in sipping something warm outdoors as you admire the beauty of autumn’s changing landscape.
Autumn Apple Tart with Cinnamon
A picnic isn’t complete without a little something sweet, and this apple tart is perfect for sharing. Made with seasonal apples and just the right amount of cinnamon, it’s ideal for those crisp, sunny autumn days when you’re looking for a bit of comfort.
Ingredients: Sliced seasonal apples, puff pastry, cinnamon, and sugar.
Tip: Bake this tart ahead of time and slice it into small pieces for easy serving. I love adding a drizzle of caramel sauce for a little extra indulgence.
Tips for Creating a Cosy Autumn Picnic Setup
It’s not just the food that makes an autumn picnic special; it’s the whole experience. From the spot you choose to the blankets you bring, creating a cosy setup will ensure your picnic is as warm and inviting as possible.
For me, the best picnic spots are those that let you fully immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. National Trust properties in Somerset have always been my go-to, whether it’s a secluded spot under golden trees or a hilltop with views that stretch for miles. Beaches are another favourite, especially in autumn when the crowds have disappeared, and you can enjoy fish and chips while the sun sets behind the waves.
Autumn can be unpredictable, so make sure you pack plenty of blankets, one to sit on and another to wrap around your shoulders. Insulated containers are a must to keep your food warm, and don’t forget a flask of hot tea or coffee to sip as you watch the leaves drift by.
Bring a little of the season into your setup with natural elements like fallen leaves, pinecones, or mini pumpkins. I love incorporating earthy tones, think sage greens, burnt oranges, and warm browns, to reflect the beauty of the season. Add a few candles or fairy lights if you’re planning to stay out until sunset for that magical, golden hour glow.
Autumn only lasts for a short while, so why not make the most of it with a picnic that celebrates the best the season has to offer? Whether you’re sharing warm pumpkin soup, biting into a slice of apple tart, or simply enjoying the sound of the leaves rustling in the breeze, an autumn picnic is a wonderful way to slow down and savour the moment. So gather your loved ones, pack your favourite seasonal treats, and head outdoors to create some cherished autumn memories of your own.
Love Gemma xx
Picnics are a charmingly simple pleasure, yet they come with their own unwritten rulebook, one that ensures everyone enjoys the occasion, rather than dashing back to the car as soon as the ants arrive.