Here at the award-winning Arbutus Hospitality, we know that there is no better feeling than getting outdoors in the sun with the whole family and going on a delightful picnic. It's the best way to spend top quality family fun without breaking the bank. So to help with those all important planning arrangements, Arbutus Hospitality has a list of essentials that should help that all-important family time run smoothly.

So, to make sure your family day runs smoothly here are the must-have items to pack for that all important trip.

A Picnic Blanket

Great for sitting on, and letting the kids roll around.

Sun Cream

Make sure if the sun is out that the whole family is kept safe with a high factor sun cream.

An Umbrella or raincoat

We know what the weathers like here in NI, one minute the suns splitting the sky and the next, the heavens have opened. Pop these in your bag to avoid interrupting your fun-filled day.

Don't forget the most important thing of all Picnic snacks. We know that a picnic is not complete until all the family has tucked into some delicious treats. Here are our top, delicious tasty treats that are simply the most filling snacks to pack whilst going on an adventure.

Sandwiches

A must-have for any picnic and all the family will enjoy. They're easy to make and you can fill them with whatever you please.

Pasta

Mmmm we are hungry thinking about it, pasta is a quick and easy option for a picnic and if you planning on traveling early, never worry you can make it the night before.

Fruit

They don't only count as one of your five a day. They are so refreshing, you can simply cut them up and mix them together to create a juicy fruit salad on a beautiful summers day.

Wine

One for the adults, take it from us there is nothing as relaxing as sitting on a picnic blanket surrounded by greenery or sand and having a nice little glass of wine to finish off your day.... bliss.

So there you have it, our top tips on how to plan ahead for the perfect family Picnic. We hope the beautiful weather continues for you to make the most of wonderful family time.

If a picnic is not the option for you, don’t you can join us at Arbutus at The Crannagh located between Coleraine and Portstewart and enjoy wonderful views of the River Bann while we cook you up one of our tasty dishes.