Autumn's in the air as Cawdor pumpkin patch prepares to welcome public for the first time tomorrow
Outdoor fun for all ages and a passion for local produce are behind a brand new Nairnshire pumpkin patch which will open for the first time this weekend.
A family-run project, the new Cawdor Pumpkin Patch was set up by Sibby Arkell-Glover (37) and her husband Philip Arkell (36), who is estate manager for Cawdor estate.
People will be able to enjoy autumn colours, learn more about pumpkins and buy them as the field opens for business on Saturday at 10am.
The couple, moved with their two young children to the Highlands last year, and with the help of Cawdor Estate they were able to prepare the ground for pumpkin season.
"As a family, we are all passionate about being outdoors," said Sibby.
"We had already set up a patch in Newbury, where we lived, in 2021, and it was very successful. It's great to bring the community together.
"I love autumn, it's very much my favourite season and with Philip – who has always worked with farmland and within estates – we wanted to provide something for families to do in October, as often there isn't much for children to do.
"Over summer we planted more han 7000 seeds and worked on the patch. We now have many varieties of pumpkins – all of which are edible – and we look forward to welcoming people here.
"I will also share some recipes on the website later this month so people can have some inspiration for cooking with pumpkins."
Entry to the patch is free however booking is essential to manage numbers and prepare for the day.
"We wanted to keep the cost as down as possible – the entry is free and our pumpkins start at £3, which is less than many other pumpkin patches around the UK.
"I have also been painting some photo boots and signs so people can take some lovely pictures. I really hope people will come along and enjoy the beautiful autumn setting."
She added that if the patch is successful, they hope to plant sunflowers for this summer.
The Cawdor Pumpkin Patch will be open on October 7 and October8 from 10am to 5pm (with last admissions at 4pm), then the week between October 14 and October 22 and again on the weekend of October 28 and 29.
There will also be a special Halloween Party for children and their families on October 31st – which will be the last date available to visit the patch this season.
More information on the patch and how to book can be found at cawdorpatch.com.
