The traditional measure of British masculinity used to focus on car maintenance skills and the ability to consume multiple pints without displaying emotional depth. Today, however, the culture of Barbecue Dads has pivoted this notion. This season, impressing fellow barbecuers hinges on your knowledge of the finest beechwood smoking chunks and a thorough understanding of Ottolenghi spice rubs. The dynamics of summer grilling have undeniably shifted. Here’s how to ensure you get a passing grade in the world of barbecue.

Before any competing Barbecue Dad considers your invitation, they may have inquiries. Be prepared to share details about the size of your Weber grill if you’re just starting out. If you’ve invested in a Big Green Egg, it’s beneficial to highlight that fact, even if not asked. The ultimate brag is having a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, which might seem like a dedicated kebab restaurant in your yard, but at least you can keep your tongs nice and clean indoors. The ultimate showstopper move? Informing them, “I’ve actually just dug a pit where my begonias used to be. I’m going to throw in some hot coals and a lamb carcass. Should be perfectly medium rare by Sunday.”

Dress Code

The humorous apron (“Burnt sausage? No, it’s just how my shorts bunch up”) doesn’t cut it anymore. If you’re not geared up like a police dog trainer, complete with goggles for protection, your barbecue efforts might be deemed insufficiently serious.

Barbecue Techniques

The standard of “not burnt” is no longer acceptable. Are you even barbecuing in 2025 if you’re not preparing your gurnard en papillote?

Pizza Ovens

Pizza ovens can be great if your favorite part of barbecuing involves standing on the opposite side of the garden, enjoying drinks, and avoiding conversation. It’s essentially a more intricate version of standard grilling, yielding fewer meals at a slower pace. “Pizza’s ready! And I mean one pizza. See you again in 20 minutes!”

If in Doubt… Cheat

The reality is people tend to enjoy gathering in a garden with friends more than they do savoring charred beef brisket and infusing their party shirts with a week’s worth of smoke odor. Once you come to terms with this, as I have, you can completely bypass the flames and prepare a large pot of chili, bake some potatoes in a standard electric oven, and heat up a batch of Herta frankfurters. Believe me, everyone will be more than satisfied.

Your Essential Picnic Gear for This Summer

From the essential cooler to the stylish blanket, explore your outdoor necessities for summer picnicking, curated by Karen Dacre.

The Impressive Cart

There’s a special place in the picnic world for those who arrive at the park with a cart in tow. This excellent model from Business & Pleasure is a better option than the finest from Decathlon, priced at £249.

The Top Cooler

Picnic rivalries are less about who has the best hummus and more about whose cool box keeps the food cold. Icey-Tek claims their cooler maintains temperatures below 5C for 225 hours—over nine days! This one is priced at £169.

The Stylish Blanket

A British picnic demands a blanket that prevents dampness while looking elegant. This wool blanket from the British Blanket Company features a waterproof backing and a convenient carry option for £150.

The Classy Plate

In 2025, a mediocre paper plate simply won’t suffice. Elevate your outdoor dining with reusable dishware that is both stylish and practical, available at £12 for a set of four.

The Wine Wine Bottle

Your ideal picnic rosé should be stored in this insulated wine bottle, ensuring it maintains the perfect serving temperature throughout your gathering. Price: Bottle, £40; Cup, £23.