Written by Paisley Tedder

Picnic blankets: 7 best buys

Nothing beats a picnic. Even if the weather isn’t quite on your side, sitting outdoors and tucking into sarnies, fruit kebabs, pork pies and jam tarts is a quintessential summer experience. With summer underway, let’s take a look at the best picnic blankets available so you can recreate the classic British day out. Just don’t forget your umbrella!

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1. Classic gingham picnic blanket

Gingham is trending across the board and this sunshine spin on the classic pattern makes for a super stylish picnic blanket. The self-proclaimed love rug is an ideal comfort match for lazy days in the park, trips to the beach or simply chilling in the garden.

girl sitting on yellow gingham blanket with sunglasses and eco tote

£115, Antipodream

2. Cherry baby

Pucker up with this adorable cherry patterned picnic blanket. Cath Kidston has long been a go-to for printed products, perfect for families whether it’s bags for trips away, back to school kit, or day out essentials like this. This is also a great excuse to pack cherry themed delights in your picnic hamper – we recommend cherry Bakewells for a proper British teatime treat.

Cherry picnic blanket from Cath Kidston on white background

£32, Ideal World

3. Diamond dazzler

In summery, sky blue this luxury picnic blanket is a must-have for those looking to shop sustainably. The stylish piece by Weaver Green made from approximately 300 plastic bottles, feels super soft and is machine-washable and stain resistant, meaning it’s great for family use. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment for picnics and garden fun.

Sky blue sustainable blanket made from recycled plastic bottles on white background

£50, Weaver Green

4. Buzzy bee blanket

Who doesn’t love a bee? Animal-themed accessories are always a hit with the children and we’re sure this bee-themed beauty by Anorak will be no exception. The beautiful blue background will bring instant happy vibes to your day out. It’s also lightweight and machine washable, so drinks spillage, little crumbs and grass stains can all come out in the wash – if only all picnic blankets were so easy to wash!

roll up picnic blanket with bees and leather strap on white background

£29.95 from Annabel James

5. Love heart picnic blanket

In two shades of pink with adorable little hearts all over it, this is the picnic blanket for a day out with the girls. This stunning offering from Sophie Allport is hand knitted and feels like real quality when using, which you know your friends will definitely appreciate! Get the Prosecco popping and the wireless speaker on as you head to the park this bank-holiday to enjoy the final days of summer.

pink wool blanket with hearts and leather strap on white background

£43, Sophie Allport

6. Tiger comes to tea

We love this stylish tiger-themed offering from Alfresco Dining Company. It’s made from soft cotton, but has a polyester waterproof backing to help protect against the damp ground. It’s perfect for taking across the UK on staycations or days out exploring.

Tiger patterned pink picnic blanket with hamper and tray of snacks on grassy field

£35, Alfresco Dining Company

7. Bold botanicals blanket

Boosting comfort, practicality and a beautiful design, this picnic blanket ticks all of our boxes. With a polyester fleece, the botanical mat provides a comfortable spot to sit in while day tripping or lounging in the garden. The nylon handles mean it can be transported easily, while the waterproof backing means it will stay dry whatever the British weather has in store. An all round winner in the GH book!

waterproof polyester fleece matt with snacks on

£24.99, VonHaus

Don’t forget to check out our insta-worthy locations to unfurl your picnic blankets, and stock up on our picks of the best accessories to have the ultimate pic-a-nic.