Hatters Farm Pumpkin Patch Opens 3rd October And Here's Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning a visit for pumpkin picking in Essex, here are the essentials you need to know before heading to Hatters Farm this October. Daytime pumpkin picking begins on 3rd October 2026, with further opening dates throughout the month.

Pre-booking is essential so opening times vary depending on the day but all listed when purchasing tickets here, so it’s always worth checking your chosen date before travelling and booking your arrival slot online in advance.

Explore the Pumpkin Patch

One of the biggest reasons to visit Hatters Farm is the huge choice of pumpkins available. Across the pumpkin patch, visitors can explore rows of home-grown pumpkins and squash, with different shapes, sizes and colours to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a traditional orange pumpkin for carving, something unusual for an autumn display or a giant pumpkin to take home, there’s plenty to discover.

Grab a wheelbarrow, head into the field and enjoy one of the most popular pumpkin picking experiences in Essex.

More Than Pumpkin Picking

There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained beyond the pumpkin patch. Visitors can enjoy a range of Halloween and autumn activities, including:

• Hatter’s Haunted Mad House
• Bale Mountain and hay bale maze
• Pumpkin Cannon
• Live roaming characters
• Indoor farm play
• Duck racing
• Autumn photo opportunities

Additional activities include the Maize Maze and face painting, making Hatters Farm a great option for families looking for a full autumn day out rather than simply somewhere to pick a pumpkin.

Food and Autumn Treats

After exploring the pumpkin fields, visitors can stop for food and drinks at the farm. Expect warming autumn favourites including burgers, toasties, waffles, coffee and hot chocolate.

There are also open fire pits where you can relax and roast giant marshmallows, adding even more to the seasonal atmosphere.

What Should You Bring?

Hatters Farm is a working farm, and October weather can make the fields muddy. Wellies or sturdy footwear are a safe choice and strongly recommended, along with suitable outdoor clothing depending on the forecast. Don't worry, there are no fashion competitions. 

Parking is available close to the pumpkin patch, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on leads.

Do You Need to Book?

Visitors should book an arrival slot online before travelling. Pumpkins are purchased separately, so you can choose exactly what you want to take home.

Located in Takeley, near Bishop’s Stortford, Hatters Farm is ideally placed for families searching for pumpkin picking in Essex, a family-friendly pumpkin patch or Halloween activities this October. So get the wellies ready and start planning your visit. 

Hatters Farm Pumpkin Patch opens on 3rd October 2026.