OM Plymouth Magazine, OM185 October 2024
24th September 2024Witchy Wonders: Easy at-home Beauty & House Remedies
2nd October 2024
As the days shorten and the crisp autumn air settles in, the South West of the UK comes alive with vibrant pumpkin patches and seasonal fun. From family-friendly farms to sprawling countryside experiences, the region offers some of the best spots for pumpkin picking, perfect for creating autumn memories with friends and family. Whether you’re in search of the ideal pumpkin for carving or a day of festive activities, these pumpkin patches will leave you spoilt for choice.
Here are the top pumpkin patches to visit in Devon and the South West this October:
Strawberry Fields, Lifton, Devon
A beloved destination in the heart of Devon, Strawberry Fields in Lifton offers more than just pumpkin picking—it’s a full-fledged autumnal experience. Their popular Pumpkin Fest is a major attraction each October, featuring a large pumpkin patch where you can choose from a wide variety of sizes and shapes, perfect for Halloween decorations or carving contests.
Strawberry Fields enhances the autumn spirit with hayrides, spooky maize mazes, and a variety of seasonal treats available at the farm shop, including freshly baked pumpkin pies, hot cider, and homemade soups. Kids can enjoy the play area and take part in fun pumpkin-themed crafts, making this a top spot for family outings.
Top Tip: Head to the farm’s café for one of their famous cream teas and take home a basket of their fresh, seasonal produce along with your pumpkin.
Pips Pick Your Own, Yealmpton, Devon
Nestled in the scenic Devon countryside near Yealmpton, Pips Pick Your Own is a hidden gem when it comes to pumpkin picking. Known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere, this patch offers an array of pumpkins, from vibrant orange to rare varieties like white and striped pumpkins.
Pips is renowned for its “pick your own” ethos, encouraging visitors to wander through the picturesque fields and hand-select their perfect pumpkins. The patch also offers seasonal activities, including face painting, tractor rides, and plenty of photo opportunities for those looking to capture the spirit of autumn.
Best for: A peaceful countryside experience, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed day out in nature.
The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Saltash
Located just across the border in Saltash, The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch offers an exciting and adventurous autumn day out. This site boasts a large pumpkin patch filled with all kinds of pumpkins, alongside one of the South West’s most popular maize mazes—a winding, fun-filled adventure perfect for kids and adults alike.
With plenty of outdoor activities like tractor rides and a scarecrow trail, The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch makes for a memorable family day out. Their Halloween-themed events towards the end of October feature spooky evenings and twilight maize maze walks, adding a thrilling twist to the traditional pumpkin-picking experience.
Don’t miss: The onsite food stalls serving up warm, hearty seasonal fare like Cornish pasties and pumpkin-flavoured treats.
South Devon Pumpkin Patch, Ipplepen, Devon
For those near the Torbay area, the South Devon Pumpkin Patch in Ipplepen is a fantastic place to celebrate all things autumn. This family-run farm has become a favourite for locals, thanks to its expansive pumpkin fields brimming with a variety of pumpkins, from classic orange to decorative gourds.
Alongside the pumpkin picking, the farm offers a selection of Halloween-themed activities, including ghostly scavenger hunts, tractor rides, and photo opportunities with vintage farm equipment and autumn displays. The welcoming atmosphere and beautifully set-up patch make it a hit with families and Instagrammers alike.
Perfect for: Families with young children looking for a friendly, low-key pumpkin-picking experience in South Devon.
Devon Pumpkin Picking, Newton Abbot, Devon
Conveniently located near Newton Abbot, Devon Pumpkin Picking is a must-visit for those in search of an authentic pumpkin-picking adventure. This sprawling patch features a diverse selection of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect pumpkin for both decorating and carving.
The farm also hosts an array of seasonal activities, including a straw bale maze, face painting, and a kid-friendly spooky walk. In addition to the classic pumpkin experience, Devon Pumpkin Picking often offers local artisan stalls and food vendors, making it a festive day out for the whole family.
Insider tip: Be sure to check out their special events, which include pumpkin carving demonstrations and contests for the best-decorated pumpkin.
Make the Most of Your Pumpkin Patch Adventure
When visiting any of these fantastic pumpkin patches in Devon and the South West, be sure to wear sturdy boots and warm clothing, as fields can get muddy and temperatures often drop in the autumn months. Many farms offer additional activities, from haunted corn mazes to seasonal food stalls, so plan ahead to make the most of your visit.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve, or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the autumn countryside, these pumpkin patches in Devon and the South West offer something special for everyone.
Happy pumpkin picking!