Picnics were all the rage in the Georgian era. The wealthier Georgians had access to delicious new wonders. Exotic fruits could be grown in orangeries and were also imported from British colonies abroad. Sugar was becoming increasingly more available and picnics became an important sign of social status.
This Georgian Day (Saturday, November 27) why not enjoy a specially prepared picnic on the Mall whilst taking in the Georgian Day festivities? You can also enjoy our beautiful Georgian architecture, or alternatively picnic in our Courtyard area and sample foods which the Georgians would have eaten.
The Picnic boxes’ main component is Salmagundi, it is more of a concept than a recipe. Produce, the likes of olives, first made an appearance in 17th-century England. Coming from the New World, Salmagundi is everything we love and it is super pretty! Essentially, it is a large eventful salad that incorporates meat, seafood, cooked vegetables, raw vegetables, fruits, nuts and is arranged in an elaborate way. It is perhaps the forerunner to the Salad Niçoise.
Another dish that the Georgians did very well was syllabub. Supposedly the dish was invented when someone got the bright idea to take a glass of liquor sweetened with sugar and mix it with lemon or spices, top it off with creamy milk straight from a cow.
In the tradition of Christmas and the festive season, a little slice of Spiced Fruit Cake, the traditional Georgian way. All washed down with a drink of your choice: Ale, Cider and Bubbles which were all popular in the 17th- century. For those picnicking on the Mall, we are including non-alcoholic beverages.
Available on Saturday, November 27, from 11.00am – 2.00pm
What’s in the Picnic Box:
Main: Salmagundi individual boxes for one incorporating mixed leaves to include rocket, continental parsley and tarragon blanched green beans, baby vine tomatoes, wedge of cheese toasted almonds for sprinkling, ham hock pieces, slow cooked charred beef and cooked peeled king prawns, quail scotch egg capers, gherkins and olives, baby potatoes tossed in sea rock salt with lemon mayo and spring onion red cabbage slaw.
Tub of dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard and honey crusty rustic roll and butter pat.
Dessert: Lemon Syllabub and tub of tropical fruits, slice of cake, ginger or spiced fruit cake.
Choice of Drinks: Orchard Twist Apple Juice / Ginger Ale / Bottle of Water – or beverage of your choice at an additional cost.
Picnics will use local produce where possible. They will include disposable, biodegradable plates, cutlery, glasses, napkins and a tablecloth. Please remember to bring your own rug.
How to order: Available on Saturday November 27 for collection from 11.00am up to 2.00pm. Orders for picnics will close on Thursday November 25 at 8.00pm and must be pre-paid.
An order sheet must be completed on booking with preferences and any allergies.
To book contact The Charlemont Hotel, T: 02837522028; E: info@charlemontarmshotel.com.
Picnic boxes cost £25pp and children’s picnic boxes are available on request at £14.95 per child.
