The AA Releases Annual List of Top UK Pumpkin Patches
Hatter's Farm in Essex tops the list compiled by The AA, which analyzed 83 popular pumpkin picking locations across the country.
A new report from The AA has identified the United Kingdom's premier pumpkin patches for the autumn season. The analysis considered 83 popular locations, evaluating factors such as social media presence, adult entry costs, and whether pumpkins were grown on-site. The report aims to guide families in finding the best spots for seasonal activities like pumpkin picking, maize mazes, and Halloween-themed events.
Hatter's Farm in Essex secured the top position with a score of 66.15 out of 100. The farm boasts approximately 100,000 homegrown pumpkins and squashes across 75 varieties. Visitors can also engage with roaming actors, navigate a maize maze, and explore a haunted house. Ticket prices start at £5.36 for adults and children, with a £7 entry fee on peak days. The farm is open on weekends from October 3 to 18, and daily from October 21 to 31.
Doddington Hall in Lincolnshire ranked second with a score of 65.22. This location offers 30 varieties of homegrown pumpkins, squashes, and gourds. Visitors have the chance to find hidden 'golden bottom' pumpkins for a prize. Entry is free, with visitors paying for the pumpkins they pick, starting at £4. It is open from October 1 to 31.
Stockeld Park in Yorkshire placed third, earning a score of 60.47. The farm features a tractor trailer ride to the pumpkin patch and has a significant social media presence. New for 2026, 'Pumpkin Nights' offer food, live music, and games on October 17 and 24 for £15 per person. Tickets for the adventure park, including the pumpkin patch, start at £13.75 online. It is open every weekend from October 3 and daily from October 24 to 31.
Dunham Massey Ice Cream Farm in Greater Manchester is listed fourth with a score of 59.06. The farm offers 30,000 pumpkins, a 'Spooky Maze,' and on-site amenities like hot food and ice cream. Entry is £6 per car. It is open from September 26 to October 31.
Kenyon Hall Farm in Cheshire ranked fifth with 58.52 points. The farm provides thousands of homegrown pumpkins across approximately 50 varieties, along with photo opportunities, a farm shop, and a playground. Tickets are £3.95 per person, with advance booking required. It is open until October 31.
Hitchin Lavender in Hertfordshire secured sixth place with 57.84. This location offers homegrown pumpkins and squashes, a sunflower maize, and Halloween decorations. Prices vary, with morning entry starting at £4.84 midweek. It is open from October 10 to 31.
Millets Farm Centre in Oxfordshire is seventh, offering thousands of homegrown pumpkins and seasonal events such as a Halloween Circus and Spooktacular Discos. Off-peak entry is £4 per person, with peak entry at £5. Pumpkins range from £1 to £10. It is open on weekends from October 3 and daily from October 22 to 31.
Over Farm in Gloucestershire is eighth, featuring a 17-acre pumpkin patch that allows for picking after dark. Prices range from £2.99 to £7.99 per person, with pumpkins costing between £1.50 and £100. It is open on weekends from October 3 and daily from October 23 to 31.
Cattows Farm in Leicestershire, with over 100,000 pumpkins grown annually, is ninth. Attractions include a Halloween Harvest Ride and Zombie World Trail. Ticket prices vary, with the 'Build Your Own' option starting at £4 per person. It is open from September 26 to November 1.
Clearwell Farm in Newport rounds out the top ten. The farm offers over 50,000 pumpkins and a 'Pumpkin Village' with food vendors and entertainment. The 'Harvest of Horror' attraction is also available. Daytime picking starts at £5 per person, with twilight picking at £6. Harvest of Horror tickets are £20.90.
The report also highlighted international locations, including La Huerta de Aranjuez near Madrid, Germany's Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival, and The Great Pumpkin Farm in New York and Bishop's Pumpkin Farm in California in the United States. Horticultural expert Peter Bradley noted that while American pumpkin patches often offer larger experiences, UK and Irish farms provide a more traditional, characterful feel and support local growers.