Somerset Willow Weaving Sustains Millennium-Old Picnic Tradition

Somerset's rich heritage enhances the experience of picnics, where the landscape, local produce, and tradition create a unique outdoor dining culture rooted in centuries-old practices such as handcrafted willow basket-making. The Somerset Levels have been central to this basket-making craft since the 12th century, with the Victorian era seeing the industry flourish and supplying high-end markets. Meanwhile, in High Wycombe, Railway Place holds historical significance as a site of medieval activity and a former Quaker burial ground, with personal stories reflecting the area's community life before its demolition in the 1960s. In London, Matthew Pottage oversees horticulture and landscape strategy for the Royal Parks, which span 5,000 acres and include iconic green spaces such as Hyde Park and Richmond Park; these parks are charity funded and maintained to preserve their historical and ecological value. Pottage's background and passion for gardening stem from his coastal roots and early recognition in horticulture, contributing to the ongoing improvement of these treasured urban parks. These stories collectively highlight how historical traditions and dedicated stewardship continue to shape and preserve significant cultural and natural spaces in the UK.