Spring sunshine is finally here, bringing longer days, lighter evenings and the perfect excuse to head outdoors – and what better way to celebrate than with a picnic? Affordable, feel-good and effortlessly sociable, it’s the ultimate way to make the most of the season.
At O2 Centre, you’ll find everything you need for the perfect picnic all in one place. From delicious picky bits and refreshing drinks at Aldi and Sainsbury's to picnic-ready essentials from Flying Tiger and Argos, it’s never been easier to plan a relaxed day out. Prefer to skip the prep? Grab ready-made options from your favourite spots and head straight for the sunshine.
Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or making the most of a sunny lunch break, picnic season has officially arrived. Here’s how we’d plan the ultimate picnic…
Food and drink essentials
For picnic staples, Aldi and Sainsbury’s have everything covered. The secret to a great picnic? Keeping it simple, fresh and easy to share.
Think fresh, crusty baguettes, pasta salads and crisps, paired with cheese, deli favourites and dips. Aldi’s Rosemary & Sea Salt Flatbread Thins and Sainsbury’s Lemon and Coriander hummus are perfect for those all-important picky bits. Add a burst of freshness with seasonal fruits like strawberries and grapes, and finish with sweet treats like brownies or muffins.
Don’t forget the drinks – iced coffees, juices and sparkling lemonades are picnic must-haves for warm days. Simple, delicious and perfect for sunny days spent outdoors.
Short on time? Pick up grab-and-go options from Starbucks and SOHO Coffee, from fresh seasonal bakes, handcrafted sandwiches and refreshing drinks. Or take things up a notch with a Nando’s takeaway and enjoy your favourite PERi-PERi dishes outdoors. The best part? No prep required! Whatever your budget, it’s easy to mix and match across stores to create your own perfect spread.
Add the fun
A great picnic is about more than just food – it’s about creating an experience. Flying Tiger and Argos have all the essentials to elevate your setup. Start with a comfortable picnic blanket, then add on comfort-first touches such as cushions, and low tables that make it even easier to relax. Bring personality to your space with colourful tableware, bright tablecloths or even garlands and fairy lights if you’re staying outside for the evening. Keep things practical with stackable, leak-proof food containers and portable utensils – small details that make outdoor dining effortless.
And don’t forget the fun! Pack games and activities that keep everyone entertained, or get creative with simple DIY crafts for a personal touch. For a more relaxed vibe, Waterstones offers feel-good reads, jigsaws and notebooks that are ideal for slower afternoons, alongside puzzles and games to keep little ones busy. With just a few thoughtful additions, your picnic becomes more than lunch, it becomes a day to enjoy, share and remember.
Last minute plans, made easy
Whether you’re planning ahead or making the most of a spontaneous sunny afternoon, O2 Centre makes picnic prep quick and stress-free. With everything you need under one roof, you can shop across multiple stores in one trip – saving time while keeping things affordable.
Convenient transport links and plenty of on-site parking make getting here simple, whether you’re popping in on your lunch break or planning a full day out. From last-minute snacks to complete picnic setups, it’s all ready and waiting for you to enjoy.
As the warmer weather settles in, there’s no better time to embrace the simple joy of a picnic. So, gather your favourites, pick your spot in the sun, and let O2 Centre help you make the most of the picnic season.
