Last Updated on August 23, 2024
Great Scotland Yard Hotel offers the ultimate summer picnic
September is fast approaching, and dare I say it, so is the end of summer. But with the sunshine finally making its long-awaited appearance, there’s all the more reason to catch up on everything we missed during the drizzly months of June and July—particularly one of my favourite summer pastimes, picnics.
There’s something wonderfully wholesome about laying down a rug, gathering all your favourite nibbles, and leisurely grazing until the sun sets. Although let’s be honest, it’s easy to forget something essential—a fork, a knife—turning a peaceful picnic into a bit of a scramble. So, when invited to review the Great Scotland Yard Hotel’s picnic in collaboration with Veuve Clicquot in St. James’s Park, I was more than a little excited.
It was a balmy Wednesday evening in August, the clock struck 6 and I dashed out of work, eager to collect the picnic goodies. With Great Scotland Yard Hotel just a leisurely 10-minute stroll through Trafalgar Square, it couldn’t have been an easier journey. Greeted warmly at reception, I was handed the most gorgeous wicker basket and was quickly on my way to meet my friend. The handoff was seamless, but beware the basket wasn’t the lightest – though that was definitely a sign of the delights inside. So, I’d recommend meeting your companion at the hotel to share the load.
Meandering down Horse Guards Road with wicker basket in hand, we found an idyllic spot by the lake, surrounded by swans with views of both Buckingham Palace and the London Eye – talk about British Charm.
They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but when it came to this picnic, the basket alone and the stunning canary yellow and blue patterned rug—matching the aesthetic of the champagne house—already set a high bar. The basket was filled to the brim with neatly boxed Tupperware, cutlery, napkins, drinks, and condiments. Where to start?
The obvious choice…. pop open the Champagne. Perfectly chilled, we poured the bubbles into the bright orange glasses provided. Crisp, delicate and delightfully bubbly – just what the doctor ordered. For those steering clear of alcohol, two bottles of refreshing homemade lemonade and mineral water were also included.
Unpacking each box from the basket genuinely felt like the same excitement as unwrapping presents as a child. Inside was an array of gourmet treats that were leagues above what you’d find in your everyday picnic. Starting with the sandwiches, we tried the classic smoked salmon and cream cheese. The bread was unbelievably soft, with a pillowy texture that complemented the fresh salmon perfectly, lightly coated in a delicate layer of cream cheese, garnished with dill and chives – pure bliss. Next up was the coronation chicken, wonderfully spiced, with tender chicken that melted in your mouth. Another classic sandwich masterfully executed.
Next, we dug into the potato salad, still slightly warm—a true testament to its freshness. The potatoes were expertly cooked, soft with just the right amount of bite, and coated in a beautifully simple olive oil, parsley, chive, and dill dressing. And for the finishing touch, honey-roasted almonds added a lovely crunch for contrast. Unlike the usual mayonnaise-heavy versions (my worst nightmare though I know that’s controversial) this was a refreshing change for someone who doesn’t usually enjoy potato salad and hit the mark perfectly.
We then turned our attention to the cheese selection. We started with an aged Cheddar; gorgeously nutty in flavour with a buttery texture. Alongside that was a brie, rich and indulgently creamy with a subtly earthy undertone. Complementing the cheeses were crisp sourdough crackers and a sweet quince paste that cut through the tartness of the cheese.
Last, but certainly not least, were the desserts. The rhubarb cheesecake mousse was a revelation—a glorious summery blend of tangy rhubarb, creamy mousse, and a buttery biscuit base. For those with a penchant for chocolate, there was a milk hazelnut chocolate bar, beautifully decorated with a dark chocolate moustache garnish, making it as pleasing to the eye as it was to the palate.
With the Champagne leaving us a bit tipsy and our appetites thoroughly satisfied, this picnic experience set a new standard. From just £25 per person, I can’t stress enough how much you need to book this if you’re after the ultimate Al fresco summer feast or even if like me, you’re just a huge fan of picnics. The pairing of Veuve Clicquot with the culinary mastery of the Great Scotland Yard Hotel is a match made in heaven and it’s only available until September 14th so don’t hang about!
Book your own Veuve Clicquot Picnic Experience from Great Scotland Yard Hotel HERE
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