OCCASION TO Picnic
It is unclear exactly when the concept of picnicking began in Britain but by the 19th century, aspirations had moved on from simple feasting in a picturesque exterior setting to the fashion for enjoying elaborate picnics at outdoor events. This evolution was noted by renowned figures of the time, such as Charles Dickens, who commented of the Epsom Derby: “Look where I will … I see Fortnum and Mason. And now, Heavens! All the hampers fly wide open, and the green Downs burst into a blossom of lobster salad!”
By the 20th century, this elevated form of picnicking – combining a cultural setting, engaging entertainment and a pause in proceedings
