1st October 2026
Autumn has officially arrived in Dorset!
From traditional pick-your-own pumpkin patches to spooky Halloween adventures, Dorset has plenty of fantastic places to enjoy a fun-filled autumn day with family and friends. Whether you're looking for the biggest pumpkin, the perfect Instagram-worthy photo or simply a fun day out with the children, here are some of the best places to go pumpkin picking in Dorset this October.
Gorcombe Farm, near Blandford Forum
For a classic pumpkin-picking experience, Gorcombe Farm is a great choice. The pumpkin patch features pumpkins in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours, giving you plenty of choice when it comes to finding your perfect one.
After exploring the patch, you can warm up with something tasty at the Happy Farmer Café.
When: 3rd–31st October 2026
Opening: Daily, 9am–4pm
Entry: Free entry to the pumpkin field
Sopley Farm, Christchurch
If you're looking for a traditional countryside pumpkin-picking experience, Sopley Farm near Christchurch is well worth a visit.
Grab a wheelbarrow and head into the fields to choose your favourite pumpkin before stopping at the farm shop and bakery for some seasonal treats. It's a lovely option if you want something relaxed and family friendly.
When: Throughout October 2026
Opening: 9am-5pm
Entry: Free, with no booking currently required
North Farm Pumpkin Patch, Horton
Just outside Wimborne, North Farm Horton offers a wonderfully simple autumn day out. Pick your own pumpkin straight from the field, load it into a wheelbarrow and enjoy the countryside atmosphere.
There are also hot food and drinks available on selected days, with additional activities including face painting and rides on certain dates.
When: 3rd–31st October 2026
Opening: From 8am until dark
Entry: Free, with no booking required
Farmer Palmer's Farm Park, Poole
If you're looking for a pumpkin-picking trip combined with plenty of entertainment for younger children, Farmer Palmer's Farm Park is a fantastic option.
Their Halloween Half Term runs from 26th October to 31st October, with spooky activities, a maize maze, Halloween quizzes and plenty of the usual farm-park attractions.
When: 26th-31st October 2026
Opening: From 9:30am-3pm
Entry: Paid admission tickets visit https://www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/events/halloween-26-31-october-26/
Whichever pumpkin patch you choose, October in Dorset can mean muddy fields and unpredictable weather, so wellies are recommended!
And don't forget your camera – pumpkin patches make the perfect backdrop for those gorgeous autumn family photographs.
Happy pumpkin picking!