There is no better place to be than Hyde Park on a blistering hot summer’s day in London. If ants and picnic blankets are not your scene, then take the scenic stroll on the south side of the Serpentine until you stumble across the much ridiculed, but much loved, Princess Diana memorial and you’ll find this unique and picturesque cafe.

The Venue
Located within a comfortable strolling distance of either Paddington, Lancaster Gate, Knightsbridge or Marylebone underground stations, this cafe couldn’t be in a better location if it tried. It has taken over the site which used to be the original lido changing pavilion and retains much of this past charm, including the original clock tower and pillars. The entrance to the lido, which is open every summer, can be found next door. It contains a large seating area outside, which is always well equipped for crowds (and they are de rigueur in peak times) with metal chairs and tables and a killer view of the Serpentine. There is also indoor seating for the all too frequent colder months. Children’s high chairs are available as are baby changing rooms within well maintained toilet facilities.

The Atmosphere
There is no need for atmosphere-inducing music as you’ll be overwhelmed by the visual smorgasbord as you take in geese a flapping overhead, swans a swanning, children screaming, romantics rowing and pedalos being peddled around in circles on the Serpentine. And lets not forget those crazy, crazy folk who dare life and limb by swimming with the ducks in the Serpentine lake. You will often have to shoo away an errant pigeon but the helpful and cheery staff clean up at a rapid rate to ensure this is minimised. As most of the patrons are tourists, the atmosphere has a certain holiday feel to it. Comparatively, the cafe is an oasis of calm during the colder winter months, and is still enjoyable for a hot cup of chocolate and plentiful bird watching (both types).

The Food
Order and pay for your meal from the well selected menu at the counter, and take a seat in the sun (or grey sky, depending on which day you visit) whilst you wait for it to be freshly cooked. The Lido offers an impressive selection ranging from sandwiches (such as egg and cress), ice creams (mouthwatering dairy ice cream made from Jersey cows on a Beechdean farm) and cakes, to decent sized flatbread pizzas (one is big enough to share) with toppings such as tomato, buffalo mozzarella and oregano for just under £6. They also have salads (such as the warm goats cheese) and a grill section which includes grilled salmon fillet and salad for just under £8. The food is generous in proportions and reasonably priced for a location of such beauty. Furthermore, there is a well thought out kids’ menu which includes the fancily named chicken goujons and chips (basically chicken nuggets) for under £5. A meal for two with a small bottle of wine will cost about £25.

The Drink
The best news for those who like a tipple in the sun is that the Lido Cafe is also licensed so you can enjoy a cold glass of Stella or Grolsch for under £4, or either a half (375ml) or full sized bottle of Grenache merlot or chardonnay for £8 and £12.50 respectively. The usual array of basic mineral waters, juices and soft drinks are available (with an organic lemonade topping the list for flavour, but unfortunately, at £2.50 per small bottle, topping on price as well). There is coffee and tea (or for the trendy discerning urbanite, fair trade organic herbal teas) to accompany the selection of cakes on display (muffins, flapjacks etc.). The condiment section offers plastic wine glasses (if you would like to take your picnic elsewhere) and a bucket of ice should you need to chill your drinks.

The Last Word
This very English cafe is open throughout the year for breakfast, lunch or an early evening supper in the summer. Ideal for those with kids, as you can park yourself lake side and watch as they terrorise the ducks and are fascinated by the other wildlife. The Lido Cafe has a great selection of food on offer that won’t break the bank and will save you packing a picnic.

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