A day out doesn't have to be adventurous, hectic and busy. It can be about the simple things in life and by this we mean food.
A day out involving fine food and dining is always going to be a good one - in our opinion anyway.
So, we've listed the best ones in the UK this year that you must try. Especially if you want to be feeding yourself the bread and not the ducks.
Gloucester Quays Food Festival
For all those foodies out there, this plans to be the event of the summer that will tickle your tastebuds, plus two of the UK's favourite TV chefs Gino D'Acampo and James Martin will be making an appearance and cooking live on stage.
Gino says: "I can't wait to meet everyone on Saturday and show you how to creat some simple delicious recipes, Italian style - but with a unique Gloucestersire twist...Fantastico."
The 3-day food festival starts on Friday 22 July, entrance is free, however, organisers are urging people to book before the event to guarantee a seat to see Gino D'Acampo and James Martin. These cost just £5, plus a 95p booking fee. They can booked online at gloucesterquaysfoodfestival.co.uk.
Pampered in the Paddock at Newbury Racecourse
Now this event isn't really to do with food, but what does that matter when you have a butler who ensures that your glass never goes empty.
For the first time, Newbury Racecourse has partnered with Randolphs, expert providers of luxury butler service, to offer a unique experience.
This year's Ladies Day, Saturday 13 August, promises to bring you the lavish treatment that you truly deserve; plus there is a special performance by Tom Jones in the evening.
For £145pp the package includes fast track drinks service, Premier Enclosure ticket, choice of picnic tables, tour of the racecourse, seafood platter lunch served by butler - to name but a few.
Plus, if this is your first visit to a racecourse the butler will be on hand to offer tips for everything you will need to know.
Riesling Week
What better way to enjoy wine tasting, than to do it all week long?
Riesling Week comes to the UK for the first time from 23 - 31 July. Pray for the sun to come out and enjoy your wine at some of the UK's top restaurants, including Lutyens, Home House, The Ledbury and Hotel du Vin Winchester - who will be offering German Riesling promotions, including special discounts and tastings in store.
German Riesling is beloved by sommeliers across the world for its ability to pair with almost any food, including those that are not tradionall easy to match with wine, like sushi and curry.
Top independent wine merchants will also be taking part in Riesling Week, including Avery's in Briston and Corks Out in Chesire.
With so many different styles available, get in the know and discover for yourself the incredibly versatile nature of delicious German Riesling.
WI Real Jam Festival 2011
The Women's Institute and Stoves have launched a nationwide hunt for the UK's ultimate jam.
Now in its second year, the national competition is open to everyone and with 14 categories there is an opporunity for everyone to show off their jam making abilities and be in with the chance to win the top prize - £1,000 of Stoves kitchen appliances and the UK's best jam maker crown.
This year's competition will culminate with an exciting two-day festival at the WI's Denman College in Oxfordshire on 8 and 9 October. Ideal for all of your family as the day will feature cookery demonstrations from top chefs, local produce stalls and craft activites, not to mention the world famous WI cream teas.
Carluccio's Summer Picnic Hamper
This may not be a day out, but if you're planning one, this may just be the thing that you need.
These ready-made summer picnic hampers are perfect for a trip to the park, a festival or a lunch date with the other half.
They have all corners covered too, with vegetarian options and picnics designed for the children - the individual picnic is £10 and has a variety of fuss-free dishes that are bound to keep them happy.
Each picnic is priced at £45, serves two and is packed with authentic Italian dishes, freshly made to order. Plus, it comes in a reusable cool-bag which you get to keep.
All of the picnics can be pre-ordered 24 hours in advance or, if it’s a last minute get-together, the ‘chef’s choice’ will be available on the day. For more details, please ask deli staff or visit www.carluccios.com
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in Travel