It has become a bit of a family tradition to go pumpkin picking in October and we normally head to Sopley Farm on the edge of the New Forest.

When researching things to do in half term, I cam across pickingpatch.com, who have a farm in Fordingbridge and were also hosting a spooky Halloween Maize Maze.

We arrived at 10.30am and it was very busy, with lots of other families having the same idea, but there were plenty of pumpkins available and it didn’t feel crowded.

It is free to get into the picking patch and there are plenty of wheelbarrows to choose from by the entrance, to help you carry your pumpkins.

We then headed into the field, which was littered with fun decorations, signs and things to keep the kids happy, as well as the pumpkins.

There were lots of different types of pumpkins just waiting to be picked and Sebby was on the hunt for the perfect white one, whilst Eliza opted for a traditional orange one.

Make sure you explore the whole field as there is plenty more to do and see and do as you walk around.

The kids were particularly fond of the giant spiders, made from old barrels and complete with saddles.

There was also a fun pumpkin trail, with fun facts for the kids to learn about pumpkins.

The pumpkins are sold based on their size and although they are more expensive than those in the local supermarket, the experience makes it well worth it.

We tried to book the Halloween Maize Maze before we went, but the website said it was fully booked, however, when we finished picking our pumpkins, we discovered that you could pay on the door.

The maze costs £6.50 per person, with under 5’s free and is brilliant fun.

They have two types of Halloween Maze experiences. The day time one is child friendly and not too spooky, whilst evenings in the maze are dark, a little unnerving but spooky and fun, more suited for older children and teenagers.

As well as trying not to get lost, there are seven different areas to find, which include a pirate shipwreck, witches cottage, scarecrow trail and UV tunnel.

We visited on quite a windy day and the rustling of the maize really did make it feel spooky, alongside sound effects that were playing in the background.

We spent around 45 minutes in the maze before finding our way out, through the spiders web.

All-in-all we sent over two hours at the picking patch.

There is plenty of free parking, lots of space to run around, stroll and play. They also have portaloo toilets, disabled toilets, and baby change facilities onsite, food and drink and a craft tent for when the weather turns.

Do you enjoy pumpkin picking with the family?

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