Nottingham's jewel in the crown, Wollaton Park, has been named one of the UK's most perfect spots for a picnic.
The location is one of 60 across the country highlighted in The Picnic Book, the latest project of chef, journalist and author Ali Ray.
She throws the spotlight on the best places for backpacks, romantic baskets, cool boxes, barbecues and, in the case of Wollaton, posh hampers - with an assortment of delicious recipes to accompany each section.
Ali, who has been roaming the country in her yellow campervan called Custard, says: "This is a stunner of a venue for a fine feast.
"Based around a spectacular Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion, Wollaton Hall, the parkland stretches to 500 acres of formal gardens, ornamental lake and boathouse, avenues of ancient trees, and it is particular well known for its herds of free roaming red and fallow deer.
"Best of all, it’s free to come and roam here yourself. The hall is now the city’s Natural History Museum, which is also free to enter.”
“The grounds host annual music festivals, summer seasons of outdoor theatre and cinema, sporting and orienteering events and lots more so there are many reasons to create a fine banquet. Or just pick a sunny day and enjoy the splendour for the sake of it.”
Ali's recipes for posh hampers include pork and apricot lattice pie, fritatta with feta, courgette, pea and mint, jewelled cous cous salad, gazpacho, peach, tomato and mozzerella salad, rose meringues and elderflower and raspberry Victoria sponge.
Tropical picnic ham, grown up sausage rolls, boozy berry picnic puddings also feature.
Other sites listed in the book include Chatsworth House Derbyshire, Kielder Water, in Northumberland, and Firkin Point, Loch Lomund.
The Picnic Book is out now priced £14.99.
Five other castles to visit while Nottingham Castle is closed for renovations
See inside Johnny Pusztai's Snobby Butcher restaurant in Sherwood as opening date is announced
