London Picnic

Get summer started with some quality gay connections… without the pressure.

That was the London Picnic: Hello, summer, on a Saturday afternoon in June 2026, 3pm to 6pm, by the National Theatre on the South Bank. Thirteen guests booked.

There was a warm welcome, introductions and icebreakers, some snacks provided (BYOB if applicable), and plenty of opportunities to meet everyone. You could bring a buddy, but you were expected to chat to new people. It was set up to be friendly, fun and low-pressure, and Chris was there to help make sure everyone was feeling as comfortable as possible.

There was a back-up in case of rain, to be called on the day. The photos show the group gathered round an outdoor table, grinning for a selfie.

Tickets were £10 for one and £18 for bring-a-buddy. It opened a summer that took in the Oxford and Brighton weekends and, in August, NSGW's first birthday picnic.