Fresh picnics are available to order at Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange

ALFRESCO DINING

Not going abroad this August? When the sun is shining in Britain, there really isn’t a better place to be. From cute coastal towns and beaches to lush forests, meadows and fields, there’s a wealth of glorious countryside to explore, even if you’re primarily based within the M25.

And what could be more enjoyable on a hazy summer day than going for a picnic with friends and family? But don’t stress about making fresh hummus and packing up sandwiches. Instead, why not treat yourself to an indulgent and fuss-free picnic to go from Fortnum & Mason? The department store offers a selection of fresh ready-to-go picnics, which you can order online or at the customer desk at The Royal Exchange. These range from classic staples – think pork pies and Scotch eggs (which were, incidentally, invented by Fortnums!) and even cream tea options – to a truly decadent Champagne Breakfast Box, potted Welsh rarebit and pheasant pie. There are options to suit all budgets and tastes, and you can also shop an extensive range of Fortnum-branded picnicwear including blankets, flasks, tote bags and, of course, the traditional wicker hamper basket. Pop into Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange to discover more

M&K Aesthetics at The Royal Exchange

BEAUTY BUZZ

There’s a surprising amount of self-care and maintenance involved before a vacation. After all, we all want to be looking our best in advance of those pool-side selfies. Before you jet off, make sure to book an appointment at M&K Aesthetics at The Royal Exchange. The beauty salon has several offers running throughout August:

• Book a 1ml lip filler and receive a free lash lift and tint
• Book a 3ml contour package and receive a free eyelash extension set of your choice
• Book either glamorous or natural volume lashes and receive free brow lamination
• Book hybrid or classic lashes and receive a free brow wax and tint

Visit M&K Aesthetics at The Royal Exchange or call 07897 901066 for more info

Personalised Smythson travel accessories

THE PERSONAL TOUCH

There’s nothing like a shiny new personalised passport cover or suitcase to get you in holiday mode. The brand-new branch of TUMI, opening at The Royal Exchange later this month, will feature a dedicated customisation area on the first floor. Here, customers can opt for services such as monogramming, embroidery, debossing and embossing to add a personal touch to their new TUMI suitcase or bag. Elsewhere, heritage luxury brands Montblanc and Smythson also offer a variety of (often free) personalisation on leather goods, as does British brand Aspinal of London across a variety of its accessories.