In the crisp autumn air, nothing captures the essence of the season quite like the joy of pumpkin picking, especially in the idyllic counties of Sussex and Surrey. As October progresses and the excitement of Halloween builds, families and friends flock to pumpkin farms across the region, eager to embrace this timeless tradition. The fields, hopefully bathed in the golden hues of the season, offer not just a chance to find the perfect pumpkin but also an experience filled with festive spirit, a connection with nature and the simple pleasures of the time of year.
The charm of Sussex and Surrey’s pumpkin farms
Pumpkin picking in Sussex and Surrey has become more than just a pre-Halloween ritual; it’s a delightful day out for people of all ages. These counties, known for their stunning landscapes of rolling hills, woodlands and picturesque villages, provide the perfect backdrop for autumn activities. Pumpkin patches here range from quaint family-run farms to larger-scale operations, each offering a unique atmosphere and plenty of charm.
Many farms in Sussex and Surrey cater specifically to Halloween enthusiasts, transforming their fields into magical autumn wonderlands. Visitors can wander through rows upon rows of pumpkins, from tiny gourds to enormous, bright orange beauties, perfect for carving or decorating. The thrill of finding just the right pumpkin—whether it’s perfectly round, intriguingly misshapen or larger than expected—adds to the fun. The wide variety of pumpkins, in every shape, size and shade of orange, ensures that there’s something for everyone, from those looking to carve intricate jack-o’-lanterns to those wanting a simple, rustic autumn decoration.
The harvest atmosphere
Beyond just picking pumpkins, many farms go all out in the run-up to Halloween, creating a festive, fun and family-friendly atmosphere. Hayrides, corn mazes and scarecrow trails make for a full day of entertainment, while farm shops overflow with seasonal produce, homemade jams and local delicacies. Find out more about local Halloween events on our Events page, which is packed with up-to-the-minute ideas about where to go and what to do.
With so many fun days out in Surrey and Sussex, you just know the best experiences will be the ones that involved an element of pre-planning. After all, you wouldn’t want to turn up to a venue with excited children in search of a special day only to find it’s not what you all had in mind.
The anticipation of Halloween
The act of choosing a pumpkin holds a special significance in the lead-up to Halloween. Whether it’s destined to become a spooky jack-o’-lantern, an elegant centrepiece or simply a festive decoration, the pumpkin embodies the excitement of the season. As October draws to a close and the nights grow longer, the glow of a carved pumpkin, flickering on a doorstep or windowsill, becomes a beacon of autumn’s magic.
In Sussex and Surrey, the pleasure of pumpkin picking is more than just about the final product; it’s about the journey, the tradition and the shared experience. Each year, the fields call out, inviting families to come together, embrace the season, and create lasting memories that make autumn—and Halloween—extra special.
To find the very best of autumn, our experience finder pages are the perfect starting point. Here at GoLark, we always seek out the happiest Halloweens!
