Picnics are a charmingly simple pleasure, yet they come with their own unwritten rulebook, one that ensures everyone enjoys the occasion, rather than dashing back to the car as soon as the ants arrive.

Autumn is all about embracing the heartier, warming flavours of the season, and this Warm Roasted Vegetable Salad is the perfect dish for those crisp, breezy days when you’re out enjoying nature.

There’s nothing quite like an autumn picnic in Somerset. As the days grow cooler and the leaves turn to shades of gold, amber, and red, the countryside transforms into the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. The crisp air, the rustling of leaves underfoot, and the peace that comes with autumn’s slower pace make it one of my favourite times of the year for picnics.

There’s something truly magical about autumn picnics, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, the earthy smell of freshly fallen rain, and the crispness in the air that calls for cosy blankets and warm drinks. Every year, as the season changes and Somerset is awash in rich reds, golds, and browns, my family and I love heading out for an autumnal picnic.

Have you ever wondered how a simple picnic can transport you to different corners of the globe without ever leaving your hometown? Well, grab your picnic basket and a sense of adventure because we’re about to embark on a virtual journey "Around the World in 80 Picnics." From the cherry blossom-laden parks of Japan to the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil, each picnic spot tells a story of culture, tradition, and the universal joy of sharing a meal in the great outdoors.