A perfect summer afternoon: a picnic at Castle Farm

Soft grass underfoot, the low murmur of conversation and laughter, and the warm sun dappling through the leaves — a picnic at Castle Farm feels like stepping into a gentle, unhurried story. Whether you’re bringing close family, a small group of friends, or coming alone for a restorative pause, the farm’s open meadows and sheltered corners make for an inviting place to reconnect and recharge.

Accessibility and comfort Castle Farm is set up with paths that are generally flat and well maintained, but some areas of the meadows can be uneven. If anyone in your party uses a wheelchair or has limited mobility this is not an Issue.

Food ideas for you to bring that are simple and nourishing

• Ploughman’s-style sharing board: slices of farmhouse cheese, ham, pickles, crusty bread and chutney.

• Cold quiche or savoury tart that’s easy to portion.

• Colourful salads in separate tubs: potato and chive, beetroot and goat’s cheese, or a protein-rich quinoa salad.

• Fresh fruit: strawberries, grapes, apple slices and orange segments — easy to pick at and refreshing.

• Home-baked flapjacks, shortbread or lemon drizzle cake for a sweet finish.

• A thermos of herbal tea and flasks of decaffeinated coffee for slower drinkers.

Activities that don’t tire

• Gentle walks around the farm to spot birds, butterflies and seasonal blooms.

• A deck of cards, a travel board game or a simple quiz to enjoy at the blanket.

• A sketchbook for anyone who likes to draw landscapes or make notes.

• A mindfulness or breathing exercise as a group to enjoy the calm.

• Quiet reading — bring a few paperbacks to share.

A picnic at Castle Farm can be more than an outing — it’s a chance to be together in a calm, open space where the simplest things — food, fresh air and company — bring the most pleasure. Pack thoughtfully, move at an easy pace, and let the farm’s gentle rhythm do the rest.