Picnic Baskets - our pick of the best

Whilst the sun has got it's hat on, it's time to pack up your favourite foodie treats and head outdoors to dine. Whether you're off to the park, the countryside or the beach, we've got our pick of the best picnic baskets so you can lay on a spread in style. A handy picnic basket is the perfect way to ensure strawberries are served fresh, the homemade lemonade stays fizzy and sandwiches are not soggy!

There really is no better way to picnic in style than with a quintessentially British picnic hamper. Choose from classic wicker hampers with enough plates and cutlery for a family of four to enjoy a picnic, go for a neat little basket for two, or opt for a cool insulated picnic basket that's perfect for taking down to the beach. Wherever your outdoor adventures take you this summer we have the basket for you, browse our pick of the best here...

Nothing says romantic picnic quite like a heart shaped hamper. This beautiful white design from Marks & Spencer is perfect for an intimate dining occasion - the set contains two ceramic plates; two plastic wine glasses; two sets of cutlery; two napkins; salt and pepper shakers and a bottle opener (essential on any romantic celebration surely!) To add a little extra charm to proceedings the basket is lined with a beautiful country floral patterned fabric. H40 W35 D20cm

Buy Now: Dovecote Floral 2 Person Heart Hamper, £45, Marks & Spencer

This smart hamper is a Joules design - a brand famed for its countryside heritage. The grey floral fabric feels like a sophisticated approach to using floral motifs, further enhanced by the natural wicker basket. Complete with a sturdy grey carry strap this basket is fully loaded for 4 people to enjoy a day out; at the races maybe, it has that kind of vibe for sure. The set contains four plastic plates; four cutlery place settings; four plastic wine glasses; four napkins; salt and pepper shakers; bottle opener; cheese knife and a mini coolbag. H30 W44 D31cm.

Buy now: Joules Picnic Hamper, £89.98, John Lewis

We love this sweet compact hamper design. The streamlined size makes it more practical for those on foot, or at all day events where you might want less to carry around. Complete with a chiller compartment this traditional wicker design also features elegant stainless steel cutlery, china plates and a bottle opener to make it the perfect picnic companion for two. H19 W42 D28cm.

Buy now: Chiller Picnic Hamper for Two, £62.50, Not on the High Street

We love the shape of this particular basket, almost reminiscent of a nursery rhyme. The zip top conceals am insulated main compartment with a 12 litre capacity, keeping food and drinks cool for up to 5 hours. The Jazzy orange trellis print is a nice decorative touch, making it as stylish as it is practical.  Thanks to the generous size it's ideal for large family day trips, offering maximum space for keeping lots of food and drinks fresh.

Buy now: 4 Person Wicker Picnic Basket, £45, Next

Made from chunky woven Kubu rattan, with a solid unmoveable handle this compact basket is made for durability. With the handy open-top design this basket is ideal for quick access to food and drinks without any fuss. It's small size makes it ideal for an impromptu outdoor adventure where you just need the basics. H38 W40 D26cm.

Buy now: Bembridge Picnic Basket, £42, Garden Trading

This particular set has a lovely seaside feel to it! The coastal stripes and blue leather fastenings give this white willow hamper a sophisticated edge. The divided compartments make for good food storage, to make sure nothing gets squashed. There is also a handy built-in cool compartment with zip. This set comprises of four glasses, four plates, four cutlery sets, napkins and a corkscrew.

Buy now: Four Person White Picnic Hamper, £50, Dunelm

This design feels like a timeless picnic basket, with traditional lift openings either end and classic basket handles to go over the arm while you stroll to find the perfect picnic spot! The simple yet elegant design is handwoven by skilled artisans from natural rattan, with a subtle diamond print on the sides to add an element of decoration. H43 W49 D33cm.

Buy now: Handwoven Picnic Basket, £65, The White Company

Once you're armed with your beautiful basket of choice, all that's left to do is prep the food, pack and go as soon as the sun comes out!