Pumpkin patches

Find the perfect jack-o'-lantern for Halloween at a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Some are simple affairs in tranquil countryside; others offer activities ranging from ghost trains to spooky mazes.

- Helen Moat

1 CAIRNIE FRUIT FARM, CUPAR, FIFE

One of Scotland’s top fruit farms has also offered pick-your-own pumpkins for a quarter of a century. Choose from 20,000, in all shapes and sizes. Alongside the pumpkin patch, the Funyard and Halloween Torchlight Maze provide entertainment for all the family. Lose yourself in the shadowy labyrinth spread over 2.4 hectares – and prepare for a few scary surprises along the way.

cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

2 AVON VALLEY ADVENTURE & WILDLIFE PARK, KEYNSHAM, SOMERSET

This spot just east of Bristol offers a great day out beside the River Avon. As well as picking the perfect pumpkin, children can enjoy theatre performers and fire shows. For an action-packed day, try Pumpkin Paintball, Seasonal Slingshot and Fire an Apple Cannon. Then stick around for more entertainment during Pumpkin Patch Nights, with a pop-up bar, street food, performers and lighting.

avonvalley.co.uk

3 STREAMVALE OPEN FARM, BELFAST