Do you fancy going pumpkin picking this half term in Bucks?
Arguably one of the best ways to welcome the spooky celebration of Hallowe'en, a visit to a pumpkin patch is fun for all the family.
The American tradition of visiting a pumpkin patch started in the 1920s and has slowly moved across the pond in more recent years.
With many celebrations unable to go ahead this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, this tradition is something we're lucky enough to still be able to enjoy.
Here are some of the best pumpkin patches in Bucks:
Odds Farm, High Wycombe
Open throughout half term until November 1, Odds farm has a giant pumpkin patch where you and the family can pick your own pumpkin ready to carve.
Fancy dress is highly encouraged and there are mini wheelbarrows for the little ones to use whilst exploring the pumpkin patch - is there a more ideal autumnal picture opportunity?
Once you've chosen your pumpkins you can carve them on-site at the 'carving corner' or take them home.
Odds Farm is a great day out with mini-golf and a range of animals to see, there are also food and drinks venues on site.
The Pumpkin Farm at Christmas Tree Farm, Chesham
Farmers, Jakki and Robert first planted their pumpkin seeds seven years ago and since then The Pumpkin Farm has been synonymous with families looking to enjoy a picture-perfect pumpkin patch.
There are pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and varieties at the farm as well as the Rouge VIF D'Etampes, Baby Bear and Becky pumpkins which are described as much better for eating.
It really is a family affair with not only Jakki and Robert working on the crop but their children and Grandad muck in too, especially at 'planting in' and harvest time when its all hands on deck.
They also sell the all-important pumpkin carving kits as well as other Hallowe'en goodies such as face paints, trick or treat buckets, witches hats, broomsticks and bunting.
They are open every day in half term between 10am and 4pm.
This picture-perfect pumpkin patch
Lillingstone Pick Your Own Pumpkins, Lillingstone Dayrell
This picture-perfect pumpkin patch has been opening its gates to the public since 2018, this year they have even grown a maize maze for visitors to enjoy.
The farm is the brainchild of Tom Phillips, a first-generation farmer and his wife, a primary school teacher.
Tickets are £5 per vehicle and pre-booking is essential so families can pick their own special pumpkins which have all been planted from seed and nurtured by hand.
All of the pumpkins are grown in a greenhouse until they are strong enough to be planted out in June. It’s a back-breaking job caring for the plants with all weeding carried out by hand.
The pumpkins are then cut off of their vines during the first week of October in preparation for opening.
The farm, just outside the village of Akeley between Buckingham and Towcester is also home to our flock of sheep and herd of cattle.
Be sure to check their Facebook page for updates.
Will you be visiting a pumpkin patch before Hallowe'en? Let us know in the comments.
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