How pumpkin picking works: a first-timer’s guide

Updated October 2026

Pumpkin picking has become one of the UK’s favourite October outings. Here’s what a typical visit involves. Every farm does it slightly differently, so check the farm’s own details.

Booking and entry

Many popular patches sell timed tickets, especially for weekends and half-term. Some charge entry and then charge for each pumpkin, often by size. Others include a pumpkin in the ticket price. Where a farm publishes its booking rules or prices, we show them on its farm page.

In the patch

You’ll usually be given or can borrow a wheelbarrow or trolley, and sometimes a knife or secateurs to cut the stalk. Pumpkins are often lying loose in the field after harvest, or still on the vine.

Choosing a good pumpkin

• Look for a firm, unblemished skin with no soft spots or mould.
• Keep a good length of stalk. Never carry a pumpkin by its stalk, though, as it can snap and the pumpkin will rot faster.
• Check it sits flat if you plan to carve it.
• Pick an eating variety if you plan to cook with it (see carving vs eating pumpkins).

Extras

Many patches add trails, maize mazes, tractor rides, carving stations or food stalls. Our farm pages list the extras each farm mentions.

What to wear

Wellies are a good idea. Fields can be very muddy after rain.