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From striped to tartan...
A picnic blanket is a must-have accessory for a spot of lunch outdoors in your garden or at a nearby park or common.
Whether you're planning a romantic lunch date or family picnic on the garden lawn, or perhaps you're heading to the park to enjoy afternoon tea and strawberries and cream (whilst socially distancing), we've rounded up the best picnic blankets that combine the perfect mix of chic and cosy.
When it comes to picnic blankets, or picnic rugs as they are otherwise known, there are a few key features to look out for. Waterproof picnic blankets are popular because even if you have any drinks spillages, you'll be able to wipe it away with no-fuss and, most importantly, the picnic blanket won't remain damp. You'll find many picnic blankets are fleece but will have a waterproof backing, which is also ideal for damp grass.
Size is also important – it's always best to opt for a large picnic blanket, or even an extra large one, as you can fit more people and also, more food and drink! Having enough space is important to avoid your picnic mat becoming too cramped.
Consider portability too and the ease of folding out and packing away. Plenty of picnic blankets come with carry handles to make transporting it to a park, common or beach super easy.
And last, but certainly not least, for the style-conscious among us, there are so many designs to choose from. From colour block to stripes, geometric patterns, or neutral and pared-back styles, you can choose the perfect picnic blanket for you.
Whether you simply stay at home and make the most of the garden with long, lazy outdoor lunches or choose a spot at the park, shop our round-up of the best picnic blankets that will ensure your picnic is both stylish and comfortable this summer.
Crafted from pure wool, this pink blanket will add a pop of colour to your park lunch. It has a little leather handle so you can easily carry it, plus soft tassels for added style.
With a striped design in navy and silver hue, this cosy picnic rug is just what every summer outing needs. It also has a waterproof backing, carry handles, and has been made from recycled materials.
We love this bright and colourful striped picnic rug. It comes with an adjustable carry strap and is made with a polyester backing for protection against light ground moisture.
Pretend you're soaking up the sun on the French Riviera with this bold striped picnic blanket that opens up to a good-sized 135cm x 150cm for roomy lazing.
Fortnum & Mason is renowned for its hampers for all occasions, so why not complete the look with its teal fleece picnic rug. Featuring F&M's signature blue, this is the perfect accessory for your summer picnic.
This cosy fleece blanket will bring a bit of style to your outdoor meals. It comes with detachable faux leather carry handles and features waterproof PEVA backing.
READ MORE: 20 stylish garden accessories to spruce up your outdoor space
Crafted by a family business on the north coast of Cornwall, this herringbone picnic blanket is beach-ready and park-perfect thanks to its leather straps and waterproof back. We love the colour selection too, from popping coral and turquoise to grey and navy.
Looking for something simple? In classic teal, this Eurohike picnic blanket boasts a simple design with a waterproof PEVA backing. Great for future festivals or picnics with messy kids.
Emma Bridgewater fans will adore this spotted rug, which comes in the brand's classic print. To turn heads at the beach why not pick up the matching cool bag too?
Channel stylish coastal chic with this blue, white and red striped picnic blanket, which comes with waterproof backing and a handy carry strap.
This elegant, high-quality picnic blanket oozes traditional country charm with a contemporary colourful twist. Crafted with 100 per cent wool, it comes with a leather carry handle and lovely tassels. It's up there among our favourites...
Add a squeeze of lemon to your picnic party with this affordable style from M&S. Lemonade, anyone?
Nothing makes a statement quite like animal print. With a soft cotton face and a waterproof polyester backing, this stylish design from Yvonne Ellen rules the jungle.
In soft white and baby blue, this woven outdoor blanket is the perfect choice for alfresco getaways. Its nautical-inspired stripe will whisk you away to a pool in no time.
Zebra print is a top trend in fashion, and it's translating to homewares too. We love this stylish animal print picnic rug that you can take to the beach, the park or simply your garden.
One for Scandi-style lovers, this on-trend grey picnic blanket is reversible, and has a cosy fleece top and a charcoal waterproof back so you can take it anywhere you fancy.
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