A Guide to the Best Places in the UK for Pumpkin Picking with Kids
We’ve been taking our little ones to pick pumpkins for the last few years, and it’s easily one of the most fun, simple seasonal activities we do together. The kids love marching through the fields, searching for the best one they can find (usually bigger than they are!), and they get such a sense of pride when they spot the “perfect pumpkin.”
Living in the countryside, we’ve always felt it’s important for the kids to stay connected to the land around them. Pumpkin picking is a brilliant way to show them how food grows, learn about the changing seasons, and of course, let them burn off some energy along the way. It’s become a family tradition we look forward to every year, and we wouldn’t miss it for anything.
So, if you’ve never been pumpkin picking before, or are looking for the best spots around the UK to try this year, we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of this spooky season.
What to Look for in a Pumpkin Patch
Planning a day out with the family can sometimes feel like a bit of a lucky dip, especially when you're not sure what to expect. We know how important it is to pick the right spot, one that keeps the kids happy, makes things easy for parents, and offers a little something extra to make the day special.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best place for you:
- Selection of Pumpkins: Even if it's not the largest pumpkin patch out there, ideally it still needs decent varieties of pumpkins for you to choose from. We suggest getting there early too, as you might miss the crowds and that also gives you plenty of time to enjoy the day.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Some pumpkin farms go the extra mile to make it a memorable experience, with a fantastic range of activities like face painting, bouncy castles, spooky trails, tractor rides for the kids, and even farm animals to pet. You’ll know you’re in the right place when the kids are bouncing with excitement before they even step into the field!
- Accessibility: If you’ve got small kids or anyone who needs a slower pace, make sure the patch is easy to navigate. A farm that’s pram-friendly or has comfy spots to sit and relax can make all the difference when you’re wrangling pumpkins and little feet.
- Refreshments and Farm Shops: Look for lovely farm shops or cafes nearby, offering homemade hot food and other goodies. It’s the perfect way to end your day out, especially if you've got tired little pumpkin pickers who would love a hot chocolate.
- Pricing & Booking: Some charge by the size of the pumpkin, while others have set entry fees. Some also only take advanced bookings, some let you rock up on the day. It’s worth checking ahead of time so there are no surprises.
And, of course, UK autumn season can be unpredictable, so make sure everyone is dressed in layers and brings a waterproof jacket if rain is forecast. Sturdy walking boots or wellies are a must, as pumpkin fields can get muddy, especially after a downpour.
The Best Pumpkin Patches in the UK
So, now for the fun part. We've compiled a list of some of the best pumpkin patches, and hopefully one or two of them will be near you.
What to Do with Your Pumpkins
Your fantastic family day out doesn't end when you all get in the car to go home. Now you've got your pumpkins, there's lots you can do with them.
Here are a few fun activities that our family loves:
- Carving: Of course, the most popular use for those bright orange pumpkins is carving them into jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween. We always set aside an afternoon for pumpkin carving, complete with a bit of spooky music and some autumnal treats to keep the kids entertained. You can buy pumpkin carving kits or you can use a multi-tool.
- Painting: If carving isn’t quite the thing for the little ones, painting is a brilliant way to go. Let them cover their pumpkins in bright colours, patterns, or funny faces. No sharp tools, no mess (well, less mess), and you’ll still have some fantastic pumpkins for the windowsill.
- Pumpkin Decorating: If you’ve picked up a few smaller pumpkins, they make great decorations for around the house. You can arrange them with some autumn leaves or fairy lights to create a festive atmosphere - and lots of photo opportunities for the family albums.
- Pumpkin Recipes: Don’t let the inside of your pumpkin go to waste either. The flesh can be used to make delicious soups, pies, and even pumpkin bread, while the seeds can be roasted for a snack. We always make a big batch of pumpkin soup after our picking trips.
Summary
We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect pumpkin patch for your next family outing this autumn.
If you’re looking for more ways to connect with the countryside or just want some seasonal inspiration, take a look at the rest of our blog and sign up for our newsletter. We’re always here to help you enjoy life in the countryside to the fullest!
About the Author
Matthew Holland is passionate about sharing tips on how to enjoy the British countryside, whether it’s through family-friendly activities or connecting with nature. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matthew is a proud advocate for our British farmers and the importance of eating local, seasonal food. He combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons and embrace the beauty of country living.
