The sun is shining and a gentle breeze is stirring through the trees outside Grocer Towers this afternoon, putting us in the mood for a picnic.

Unfortunately we can’t have one. Today is press day and if we did down tools, rustle up some sarnies and catch some rays, there would be no copy of The Grocer landing on your doormat Saturday morning. And we couldn’t do that to you.

Instead, we will draw inspiration from the results of a survey carried out by bread brand Kingsmill, which asked shoppers to name their favourite lunchtime picnic spot. The Kingsmill list threw up one or two surprises, particularly (to this Englishman) Belfast City Hall. Imagining a concrete monstrosity from the deranged mind of a 1950s architect, I was quickly set right by Belfast-born news editor Ronan Hegarty: “Lovely building, nice gardens and always the chance of a good old-fashioned protest. What’s not to like?”

But I digress. Rather than abandon our desks, members of The Grocer team are taking an all-too brief break from the maelstrom of sweat, toil and tears that is press day to present our personal top picnic spots:

Ian Quinn, chief reporter: “Cliff top, Zennor, Cornwall. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean, amazing wildlife (including seals and peregrines) and the one of the world’s best pubs - The Tinners Arms, which is only 10 minutes’ walk back up the track.”

Guy Montague-Jones, senior news reporter: “Ringstead Bay, Dorset. A secluded pebbly beach far from the madding crowds and the site of many family picnics. I remember egg sandwiches featuring heavily and there was always the chance of being treated to an ice cream from the wooden shack in the car park – the only commerce for miles around. There’s also a nudist section for those that way inclined.”

Adam Leyland, editor: “Richmond Park. Not only because of the many happy memories I have of time spent there – but also because of the many happy memories it is yet to bring.”

Simon Creasey, associate editor (features): “The Horniman Museum, Forest Hill, London. After perusing the museum’s eclectic collection of artefacts (including the famous over-stuffed walrus that is currently on display in Margate’s Turner Gallery) you can retire to the grounds of the Horniman, set down your picnic blanket and drink in the breath-taking views of London’s cityscape (the view would be better still if they demolished the nearby tower blocks).”

Arabella Mileham, FMCG reporter: “Glen Artney, Scotland. Scene of many damp childhood picnics where we would follow sheep trails over the hills and wade chest-high through the bracken to reach the best wild raspberries, which usually dangled out of reach over a waterfall. Wonderful views, though.”

Jon Yeomans, web editor: “The fields looking across the old moat towards Kenilworth Castle. The castle once hosted Elizabeth I, but it was blown to pieces by Oliver Cromwell and now it’s a popular English Heritage landmark. And should it rain, you can pack up your blanket and go to the Queen & Castle pub nearby.”

Vince Bamford, FMCG editor: “Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), Gwynedd. The mountain may not get an awful lot in the way of sun (I’ve been there just once when it wasn’t raining) but the views are incredible and the scenery is like something from Tolkien. Many years ago I intended to propose to my fiancée (now wife) at the summit but lost my nerve and ended up popping the question in a semi-detached house in Sussex instead. Muppet.”

Richard Ford, deputy fresh foods editor: “The Sussex Downs. You can’t beat the Downs on a bright and sunny day, tucking into a sandwich made with crusty artisan, locally made bread and looking out over the delicious (sorry, cute) lambs skipping about on the grass.”

Stuart Milligan, art editor: “Stoke Gabriel, Devon. Set between the beautiful River Dart estuary and the tranquil mill pond of historic Stoke Gabriel village, it is truly a stunning location. It is also great fun for all the family - you can go boating, or the quay offers a safe and scenic site for catching crabs.”

Beth Phillips, deputy news editor: “Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes, Cornwall. Beautiful views, sand between your toes, seals in the bay and a pub yards away. You can’t beat a sandy Cornish pasty!”

James Halliwell, senior features writer: “Reigate Priory park. It’s a massive sun trap, there is always plenty of space for everyone, plus there is a great big playground for kids to run around in. It is also next to an M&S, which is perfect if you’re feeling like a lazy one and want picnic food without the hassle.”

But let’s not leave things there. Drop us on email, tweet us @TheGrocer or leave a message below to tell us what your favourite picnic spot is, and why.

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