The Best Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches in the UK
Autumn has a special charm in the UK, with cosy jumpers, crisp air, and golden leaves lining country lanes. For dog lovers, it’s the perfect season to make the most of scenic walks with their furry friends. And what better way to capture the spirit of the season than with a visit to a pumpkin patch? From photo ops to pumpkin picking, many farms across the UK welcome dogs, making it a fantastic outing for the whole family. Here's a roundup of the best dog-friendly pumpkin patches to explore this autumn.
1. Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze – Fife, Scotland
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Fife, Cairnie Fruit Farm offers one of the best dog-friendly pumpkin experiences in Scotland. This sprawling farm is not just about pumpkins but also features a massive maze, making it a fun-filled day for the entire family. Dogs are welcome on the farm grounds, though they can’t enter the maze – but with over 20 acres of pumpkins to explore, there’s plenty of room to wander. The farm is home to seasonal displays that make for perfect photo ops with your furry companion.
Top Tip: Visit on weekdays if you prefer a quieter experience; weekends tend to be busier in autumn.
Location: Cupar, Fife, KY15 4QD
2. Foxes Farm Produce – Essex
Foxes Farm Produce is a popular spot for pumpkin picking in Essex, and it’s super dog-friendly! You’ll find several pumpkin fields across their farms in Basildon and Colchester, filled with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and there’s plenty of open space for them to roam while you hunt for the perfect pumpkin. With pumpkin carvings, hay bales, and a lovely seasonal atmosphere, it’s a great destination for pet-friendly autumn adventures.
Top Tip: Bring a collapsible water bowl for your pup, as they can get thirsty while trotting around the fields.
Location: Basildon and Colchester, Essex
3. Kenyon Hall Farm – Warrington, Cheshire
For a picturesque pumpkin-picking experience with your dog, Kenyon Hall Farm is hard to beat. Located in Cheshire, this farm has a beautiful pumpkin patch and welcomes dogs to join you in the fields. There’s a café on-site that serves a fantastic selection of autumn treats, although dogs need to stay outdoors while you’re dining. Kenyon Hall Farm is known for its friendly atmosphere and dog-friendly policy, so you’re sure to see other families with their pets in tow.
Top Tip: Get there early to avoid crowds and to make sure you get a good pick of pumpkins.
Location: Winwick Lane, Croft, Warrington, WA3 7ED
4. Sunnyfields Farm – Southampton
Sunnyfields Farm in Southampton transforms into an autumn wonderland every October, with heaps of pumpkins in all colors, sizes, and shapes. The farm is dog-friendly and allows dogs on leads to explore the pumpkin patch, making it an excellent spot for families with pets. The farm also hosts pumpkin festivals, with plenty of festive food, hot drinks, and scenic photo spots for your pup. It’s a true seasonal treat and one of the most popular pumpkin patches in the South.
Top Tip: Keep an eye on the farm’s social media for updates on pumpkin availability and events.
Location: Jacobs Gutter Lane, Totton, Southampton, SO40 9FX
5. The Pop-Up Farm – Hertfordshire
The Pop-Up Farm in Hertfordshire is known for its vibrant pumpkin fields, where dogs are welcomed on leads. This location is ideal for families looking for a quick, dog-friendly pumpkin-picking day trip from London, as it’s just outside the city. The farm offers a stunning selection of pumpkins, from giant orange classics to white, green, and even pink varieties. With its rolling fields and rustic charm, this patch makes a beautiful backdrop for seasonal photos with your pup.
Top Tip: Don’t forget to check out the farm shop for locally grown produce, including gourds and squashes to decorate your home for the season.
Location: M1 Junction 9, Harpenden Road, St Albans, AL3 8HT
6. Craigie’s Farm – Edinburgh
Just a stone’s throw from Edinburgh, Craigie’s Farm is a favorite among locals for its friendly, relaxed atmosphere and extensive pumpkin patch. This farm is as dog-friendly as it gets, allowing leashed pets to join you in the fields for pumpkin picking. The farm offers beautiful views of the Firth of Forth and plenty of room for your pup to explore. Plus, the farm shop has lots of seasonal goodies, from freshly baked goods to autumnal produce.
Top Tip: Head over in the afternoon for a quieter experience, as mornings can get crowded during peak season.
Location: Queensferry, EH30 9AR
7. Maxey’s Farm Shop – Nottinghamshire
If you’re in Nottinghamshire, Maxey’s Farm Shop is a must-visit dog-friendly pumpkin patch. Maxey’s is particularly family-oriented, and they welcome dogs on leads to accompany you through the pumpkin fields. They have a variety of fun activities for families, including a maize maze, making it a perfect autumn outing. And after pumpkin picking, you can stop by the farm shop to stock up on local produce and delicious autumnal treats.
Top Tip: Wear wellies or sturdy boots – the fields can get muddy after rain!
Location: Hockerton Road, Kirklington, Nottinghamshire, NG22 8PB
Tips for a Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patch Visit
- Leads Are Key: Always keep your dog on a lead, as most farms require it for the safety of all visitors.
- Bring Water: While some farms may have water bowls, it’s always best to bring your own to keep your pup hydrated.
- Waste Bags: Make sure to bring bags for cleaning up after your dog. Many farms provide waste bins for pet owners to use.
- Check Farm Policies: Some farms have specific areas for dogs or restricted access for pets. It’s always a good idea to check the farm’s website or social media before your visit.
With so many farms opening their fields to dog lovers, pumpkin patch visits have never been more fun for pet owners in the UK. So grab your wellies, don your cozy scarves, and head to one of these fantastic dog-friendly pumpkin patches to celebrate autumn with your best furry friend!