Best Places for Pumpkin Picking Near London
In the UK, as in many other countries, pumpkin picking is a popular autumn activity that involves visiting farms or patches to select and pick pumpkins directly from the vine.
This tradition is often associated with the run-up to Halloween, as pumpkins are commonly carved into jack-o’-lanterns for the holiday. However, they’re also used in a variety of autumn dishes, from soups to pies. Pumpkin picking in the UK is not just about getting a pumpkin for Halloween. It’s a cultural experience that merges tradition, family fun, education, and an appreciation for agriculture and the changing seasons.
When the crisp autumn air sweeps through the streets of London, and the leaves start to turn golden, there’s no better way to get into the spirit of the season than by embarking on a pumpkin-picking adventure.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve into a spooky Jack-o-lantern, to whip up a delicious homemade pumpkin pie, or just a little retreat from studies, there are several patches and farms around the capital that welcome visitors to pick their own. And for East London students, you’re in luck, as many of these locations are just a short drive away!
Crockford Bridge Farm – Closest to Central London
Location: New Haw Road, Addlestone, near Weybridge, KT15 2BU
Crockford Bridge Farm is a tranquil countryside retreat not far from the hustle and bustle of Central London. It is located in the heart of Surrey. This renowned farm, steeped in tradition, has earned its reputation not just for its abundant pumpkin patches but also for the immersive experience it provides.
When the landscape is painted in autumnal hues, the farm becomes a destination for anyone looking for seasonal adventures. The annual October pumpkin festival features a wide variety of pumpkins and squashes, ranging from traditional orange gourds suitable for carving to rare, heirloom varieties. The carefully planned activities for guests of all ages make the trip more memorable.
By exploring the farm’s creepy woods, guests can experience thrilling, spooky walks. A simple stroll becomes an exciting adventure as shadows dance, and stories are whispered in the crisp autumn air. A trip to Crockford Bridge Farm is more than just pumpkin picking, thanks to the farm’s emphasis on nature, celebration, and spine-tingling excitement.
Foxes Farm Produce – Convenient for East Londoners
Location: Basildon or Colchester
Foxes Farm Produce, boasting two strategic locations in Basildon and Colchester, serves as a prime destination for those seeking a touch of countryside charm. The accessibility of both branches ensures that students from the city and its outskirts have a seamless journey to this rustic haven. The pumpkin patch is the focal point of their attractions, providing guests with an immersive experience as they walk among rows of colourful pumpkins. As you stroll around, feel free to pick up and examine any pumpkin that catches your eye to make sure it’s the right one for your fall festivities. Foxes Farm Produce has a corn maze that is just as intricately designed as their pumpkin patch, if not more so. Students can have an exciting adventure while exploring the maze-like pathways among the tall, golden maise stalks. This new feature not only honours the holiday spirit but also ensures that everyone who comes, from babies to grandparents, will have a fantastic time.
Tulleys Farm – A Complete Autumn Experience
Location: Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 4PE
Situated a tad more distantly from the hustle and bustle of Central and East London, Tulleys Farm emerges as a gem for autumn enthusiasts, offering a diverse and enriching seasonal experience. Its renowned Shocktober Fest transforms the farm into an epicentre of Halloween festivities, striking a perfect balance to cater to thrill-seekers of all ages. Children can revel in the magic of the season with pumpkin-picking adventures and interactive Halloween-themed activities that ignite their imaginations and festive spirits. Meanwhile, adults can relive the joys of the season, reminiscing childhood memories and perhaps even daring themselves to step into the farm’s haunted attractions. These chilling and spine-tingling experiences are not for the faint-hearted but promise an adrenaline rush and stories to share. Tulleys Farm, with its broad spectrum of attractions, guarantees that every visitor, whether young or old, leaves with a heart full of autumnal memories and perhaps a few delightful goosebumps.
Mud Monsters Run – For the Adventurous Students
Location: Stuart Way, East Grinstead, RH19 4RR
Venturing beyond traditional pumpkin-picking venues can lead to unexpected delights, and the Mud Monsters Run serves as a prime example. This isn’t your ordinary day at the farm. It’s a fusion of adrenaline-pumping challenges paired with festive autumn activities. As participants navigate rigorous obstacles and wade through thick mud, they are met with the delightful twist of a pumpkin patch segment. The sight of plump, orange pumpkins amidst the muddy terrain offers a moment of respite and fun, bridging the gap between intense physical activity and seasonal festivity. By the time participants reach this section, plucking a pumpkin becomes more than just a task; it’s a reward, a triumphant conclusion to a challenging journey, akin to placing a crown after a hard-fought battle. This unique combination of sport and tradition ensures an unforgettable experience, redefining the essence of autumn adventures.
The Hop Shop – Lavender Fields and Pumpkins
Location: Castle Farm, Redmans Lane, Shoreham, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 7UB
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Kent countryside, The Hop Shop at Castle Farm is renowned for its breathtaking lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. However, come autumn, this tranquil destination transforms, embracing the spirit of the harvest season. Beyond the fragrant blooms of lavender, fields of robust, orange pumpkins emerge, waiting to be handpicked by enthusiastic visitors. The calming purple of lavender is contrasted with the fiery orange of pumpkins in this dual offering. The Hop Shop provides a one-of-a-kind autumnal experience as the Kentish landscape takes on fiery orange, yellow, and red tones. Everyone who comes here doesn’t just come to pick pumpkins; they come to experience the beauty of autumn.
East London’s Local Urban Patches
While rural farms still have their allure, in recent years, East London has seen an increasing number of charming urban pumpkin patches. These are temporary, pop-up pumpkin patches that bring the harvesting of pumpkins to those living in the city. Keep your eyes peeled for local ads in parks and other underutilised urban areas throughout the month of October. Some even collaborate with cafes and eateries for a complete autumnal experience.
Tips for Pumpkin Picking:
- Always wear appropriate clothing. The fields can get muddy, so wearing wellies is a good idea.
- Many farms charge an entrance fee during the pumpkin-picking season. Check the websites before you go.
- It’s best to go earlier in the season. Not only will you get the best choice of pumpkins, but popular patches can get quite busy as Halloween approaches.
