Our Story
Rooted in Durham. Inspired by great days out.
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Olivers of Durham was born from a simple idea: a day out should be remembered for the places you visit and the people you are with, not for disappointing food, long queues or rushed decisions about where to eat.
Growing up on my family farm in Durham, and later farming it as the fifth generation to do so, gave me a deep appreciation for proper produce, honest food and the traditions that shape our region.
Food was always at the centre of family life. Whether it was a picnic in a meadow, on the moors beneath ancient trees, or overlooking the Durham coastline, some of my favourite memories were built around simple, good food enjoyed outdoors.
Those memories stayed with me.
Like many people, we spent countless days exploring the North East’s countryside, coastline and local attractions.
Yet time and time again, we found ourselves facing the same problem.
The food available on days out was often expensive, disappointing, involved long queues, or simply did not feel special enough to match the occasion.
Even trying to build our own picnic from supermarket shelves rarely delivered the experience we wanted. It always felt a bit rushed, a bit mismatched, and never quite as good as the place we were heading to.
So the question became simple.
Why was no one creating proper ready-made picnic boxes for people heading out for the day?
That question became the foundation of Olivers of Durham.
Our picnic boxes are inspired by the landscapes, heritage and food traditions of the North East.
From the Durham countryside and coastline to Northumberland’s castles and beaches, every box is designed to accompany memorable days outdoors.
Wherever possible, we aim to champion local producers, regional favourites and foods that feel connected to this part of the world.
You will see influences from both farming and mining heritage throughout the brand, two industries that helped shape Durham and the communities that call it home.
Traditional stotties, regional cheeses, savoury picnic favourites and good local produce all play a part in that story.
At its heart, Olivers of Durham is not simply about selling picnic boxes. It is about helping people make the most of their time together.
Whether you are exploring the coast, visiting local attractions, walking through the countryside, staying in a holiday cottage or enjoying a weekend away, we want the food to feel like part of the day, not an afterthought.
No queues. No compromises. Just proper food, prepared with care and ready for the journey ahead.
We believe the best days are often the simplest.
Good food. Great company. Beautiful places.
That is what inspired Olivers of Durham, and that is what continues to guide everything we do.
Choose your picnic box, pick a place worth visiting and let the food be one less thing to think about.