Autumn in the Highlands: 5 pumpkin patches to enjoy the October holidays and some spooktacular Halloween activities
October has arrived, and with it, many of us will finally be able to indulge in some autumnal fun — for all ages.
Here are some of the best patches for pumpkin pickers as well as other spooky-seasonal activities for you to enjoy this month:
October Fun at Farm Ness
Where?
Dunain Mains on the Loch Ness Road, A82 Inverness, IV3 8JX
When?
From Saturday, October 11 to Sunday, October 26 (activities running every day)
What’s On?
For the October Holidays, the popular Farm near Loch Ness is set host a series of spooktacular activities for all the family, with potions classes, wand-making, seasonal treats and, of course, a pumpkin patch alongside the chance to meet the farm’s animals.
More info at farmness.co.uk
Pumpkin spicy weekends at The Cawdor Patch
Where?
Cawdor village by the primary school, IV12 5XZ
When?
Opening Saturday and Sunday on October 4 and 5, then again on October 11 and 12 weekend and then Thursday to Sunday between 16 and 19 and between 23 and 26 October. Daytime and twilight sessions available.
What’s On?
The Cawdor Patch is back in full force this year with a field of pumpkins of all varieties to pick up (right on the spot where they’ve grown) — the play patch is back and bigger with bale mountains, tunnels and tractors, an expanded woodland trail and a new marquee cafe. This year will also add floral pumpkin workshops and yoga sessions at the patch.
More info at cawdorpatch.com
Spooky catacombs at Wester Hardmuir
Where?
Wester Hardmuir Farm, Nairn, IV12 5QG
When?
Opening October 11 and 12 and then Thursday to Sunday between 16 and 19 and between 23 and 26 October. — between 9am and 5pm.
What’s On?
This year Wester Hardmuir will welcome visitors with a spooky Catacombs Cryptic Trail and Ghoul School – alongside classic pumpkin picking and other fun activities like face painting and trampolines! Hot food will be served on the day.
More info at hardmuir.com
Loch Ness Pumpkins
Where?
Buntait, Farm, Balnain IV63 6TN
When?
From October 17 to October 19 weekend and between 24 and 26.
What’s On?
This farm was the first in the Highlands to open its patch back in 2018 — having attracted more than 15000 since then, and they will be back this year.
A professional photographer will be around on the opening days to capture some precious autuumn memories. ensure their autumn memories are captured to keep.
And for the first time they’ll be hosting an evening event — the Harvest Hoolie, a celebration of the season with music and “rustic” cocktails.
More info at corrimonyfarm.co.uk
Caithness Animal Farm Park
Where?
Caithness Animal Farm Park , Lybster
When?
Pumpkin picking from October 11 to October 26 and Halloween Fear Farm Experience on October 31.
What’s On?
The northernmost of the patches in Caithness will welcome visitors to their pumpkin patch and trail where they can also meet the animals living there. Get ready for pumpkin carving, Halloween Arts and Crafts and an indoors cafe to warm up.
And for Over 18s, check out their Halloween Fear Farm Experience on October 31.
More info at www.animalfarmtime.com