Autumn is a magical time in Ireland, filled with vibrant colours, crisp air, and the excitement of Halloween. Autumn in Ireland is a time of transformation, and it is our absolute favourite time of year. The US trend of pumpkin picking has firmly found its way to Irish shores and with the air turning crisp, it’s the perfect family-friendly activity, from scoping out the perfect homegrown pumpkin to sampling the hot refreshments to getting some gorgeous photo ops. For families with young children, one of the best ways to celebrate this season is by visiting pumpkin patches. These patches offer a fantastic day out with plenty of activities that will delight kids and parents alike. Whether you’re looking to carve the perfect pumpkin for Halloween or simply want to enjoy a festive outing, Ireland’s pumpkin patches have something special to offer. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best pumpkin patches in Ireland, to help ensure that your family enjoys a memorable autumn adventure.
The Tradition of Halloween in Ireland
Halloween, known in Gaelic as Samhain, has its roots in ancient Celtic traditions. In Irish culture, this time of year is believed to be when the boundary between the living and the dead is at its thinnest, allowing spirits to roam the earth. Samhain was a festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, celebrated with bonfires, costumes, and rituals meant to ward off spirits. Over the centuries, these traditions evolved, incorporating elements of All Saints’ Day and becoming the Halloween we know today. In Ireland, Halloween is a time for family, fun, and festivities, with pumpkin patches playing a significant role in the celebrations.
As children, we remember the excitement of Halloween night, when the streets would come alive with children dressed as ghosts, witches, and superheroes. We’d go from door to door, trick or treating, hoping for a haul of sweets. The highlight of the evening was always carving the pumpkin, carefully scooping out the seeds and creating a face that would glow eerily at our front door. As parents, we loved sharing these traditions with our own son, taking him to the pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkin and watching his face light up as we carve it together.
Our son is now grown, but our love for Halloween will never fade. We have travelled all over Ireland during autumn, and our passion for this season has meant we have visited some of the most incredible pumpkin patches all over the country. Whether you’re in Ulster, Leinster, Munster, or Connacht, there’s a pumpkin patch waiting to offer you a slice of autumnal magic. Here’s a detailed guide to the best pumpkin patches in Ireland, province by province.
Here is our round-up of the best pumpkin patches in Ireland, listed by province.
The Best Pumpkin Patches in Ireland: Ulster
Streamvale Open Farm, Belfast
Located just outside Belfast, Streamvale Open Farm is more than just a pumpkin patch; it’s an experience. This working farm offers a range of activities that make for a fantastic day out. The Pumpkin Patch is a highlight, with hundreds of pumpkins scattered across the field, waiting to be picked. Kids can also enjoy tractor rides, animal feeding, and an opportunity to meet the farm’s resident owls. The farm’s Halloween events add an extra layer of spooky fun to your visit.
Let’s Go Hydro (Carryduff, County Down)
Let’s Go Hydro is more than just a water park. During autumn, it transforms into a pumpkin-filled wonderland. Their pumpkin patch is part of a larger Halloween festival, which includes a drive-in cinema, a haunted forest, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Fulton’s Pumpkin Patch (Portaferry, County Down)
Located near the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough, Fulton’s Pumpkin Patch offers a scenic pumpkin-picking experience. Visitors can enjoy the farm’s stunning autumnal views while choosing from a variety of pumpkins, followed by a relaxing stroll around the nearby countryside. This is one of our favourite pumpkin patches in Ireland.
Laganvale Farm (Lisburn, County Antrim)
Laganvale Farm is a popular destination for families looking to enjoy a day out in the autumn air. The farm’s pumpkin patch is complemented by seasonal activities like hayrides, a petting zoo, and a spooky Halloween trail, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
Mountpanther Farm (Clough, County Down)
Mountpanther Farm offers an extensive pumpkin patch that is perfect for a family day out. Beyond the pumpkins, the farm provides a range of activities for a fun family day out, including tractor rides, animal meets, and a play area, all set against the beautiful backdrop of County Down.
Crindle Stables Pumpkin Patch (Limavady, County Londonderry)
Crindle Stables is known for its equestrian events, but come autumn, it transforms into a pumpkin haven. The patch here is brimming with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, ideal for carving or decorating. The farm also offers pony rides, making it a unique experience where kids can enjoy both the autumnal festivities and a love for horses.
Kinnego Bushcraft (Craigavon, County Armagh)
Located in the stunning Oxford Island Nature Reserve, Kinnego Bushcraft offers a more rustic and educational pumpkin-picking experience. The emphasis here is on connecting with nature, with activities that include foraging and bushcraft skills. The pumpkin patch is a highlight for families looking for a more outdoorsy, back-to-basics kind of adventure.
Alcorn’s Tropical World (Letterkenny, County Donegal)
Alcorn’s Tropical World offers a unique twist on the traditional pumpkin patch with its mix of tropical plants and autumn activities. Visitors can pick their pumpkins and then explore the exotic gardens or visit the onsite butterfly house. It’s a great spot for families who want to blend the beauty of tropical flora with the fun of pumpkin picking.
Ballydougan Pottery (Portadown, County Armagh)
Ballydougan Pottery is not just a spot for pumpkin picking but also a place to immerse yourself in the craft of pottery. Their pumpkin patch is popular with locals, and the onsite cafe offers delicious autumnal treats. After picking out the perfect pumpkin, visitors can try their hand at creating pottery, making it a culturally enriching day out.
The Best Pumpkin Patches in Ireland: Leinster
The Pumpkin Patch at Clonfert Pet Farm (Maynooth, County Kildare)
Clonfert Pet Farm is a fantastic spot in Kildare for a family day out. Clonfert Pet Farm is a favourite destination for families throughout the year, but it’s particularly special in the autumn. Their pumpkin patch is expansive, with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes waiting to be picked. Beyond the pumpkin patch there are many attractions, with children also able to enjoy the petting zoo, go-karting, and playgrounds. The farm goes all out for Halloween, with spooky decorations and themed activities, making it an exciting adventure for younger visitors.
Alright Pumpkin (Fordstown, County Meath)
Alright Pumpkin in Meath is a family-run farm that truly captures the spirit of Halloween. With a wide range of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, this patch is a must-visit. The haunted corn maze is a highlight, offering thrills for both kids and adults. After picking your pumpkins, stop by the farm shop for homemade jams and freshly baked goods to take home. This is a must-visit pumpkin patch in Ireland in our opinion.
Ballycross Apple Farm (Bridgetown, County Wexford)
Nestled in the heart of Wexford, Ballycross Apple Farm is a favourite among families. Ballycross Apple Farm is a quintessential autumn destination where the focus is on apples and pumpkins. The farm offers a pumpkin patch that’s perfect for picking your Halloween pumpkin, and visitors can also enjoy homemade apple treats, such as cider and apple pies. Don’t forget to visit the farm animals, a highlight for younger visitors. The farm’s rustic charm and the aroma of freshly baked goods make it wonderful visit in the heart of Leinster.
Ladyrath Lane (Wilkinstown, County Meath)
Ladyrath Lane in Meath is known for its charming pumpkin patch and family-friendly activities. The patch is set in a picturesque rural setting, making it a beautiful spot for autumn photos. The farm also hosts Halloween-themed events, including a haunted house and spooky walks, ensuring a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Clissmann Horse Caravans (Ashford, County Wicklow)
Clissmann Horse Caravans offers a unique autumn experience where visitors can enjoy pumpkin picking alongside traditional horse-drawn caravan rides. The farm is set in the picturesque Wicklow countryside, making it a peaceful and idyllic spot for a seasonal outing. Families can pick their pumpkins from the patch and then embark on a spooky walk through the enchanted forest, where you will encounter Halloween characters and decorations. It’s a magical and memorable experience that’s perfect for younger children. This pumpkin patch in Ireland is fun!
Causey Farm (Navan, County Meath)
Causey Farm is famous for its hands-on experiences and vibrant autumn events. Their Halloween experience is a must-visit, with a pumpkin patch that allows visitors to pick the perfect pumpkin and carve it on-site. The farm’s Halloween-themed events include a haunted house, hay mazes, and traditional Irish folklore storytelling, providing an immersive autumn experience.
Luggwoods Enchanted Forest (Saggart, County Dublin)
Luggwoods Enchanted Forest is a magical experience for both children and adults. Set in a scenic woodland area, the forest comes alive with autumnal colours and spooky decorations. The pumpkin patch here is part of a larger Halloween experience, which includes a guided tour through the enchanted forest, meeting fairy-tale characters, and enjoying festive treats. It’s a perfect spot for a family day out with a bit of seasonal magic
Mollies Family Farm (Geashill, County Offaly)
Mollies Family Farm is a welcoming spot that offers not just pumpkin picking, but also a range of activities tailored to families. With its petting zoo, playground, and scenic walks, it’s a perfect place to spend a cosy autumn day.
Tinahely Farm (Tinahely, County Wicklow)
Tinahely Farm is a charming destination offering a cosy autumnal atmosphere. The pumpkin patch is just one part of the experience, with the farm also offering a café, craft shop, and various farm animals to meet. It’s a wonderful spot for a relaxed family day out.
Red Mountain Open Farm (Donore, County Meath)
Red Mountain Open Farm in Meath offers a classic pumpkin-picking experience with plenty of family-friendly activities. The farm is set in beautiful countryside, and visitors can take a tractor ride to the pumpkin patch, where a variety of pumpkins await. Afterward, explore the farm’s play areas, meet the animals, take a spin on the Ghost Carriage, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. There are also prizes for best costume, so be sure to dress up!
The Best Pumpkin Patches in Ireland: Connacht
Turoe Pet Farm (Loughrea, County Galway)
So this technically isn’t a pumpkin patch but,Turoe Pet Farm is a family favourite in Galway. Their Halloween event is a highlight during the autumn months. The farm offers a range of activities including tractor rides, face painting, and animal petting, ensuring a fun day out for all ages.
Galway Pumpkin Patch (Adrahan, County Galway)
Galway Pumpkin Patch takes place on the scenic grounds of Castletaylor Estate in Adrahan in South Galway. Galway Pumpkin Patch is one of the most popular autumn destinations in Connacht, and it is a must-visit for families in the West of Ireland. Located just outside Galway City, this patch offers a wide range of pumpkins to choose from, as well as plenty of family-friendly activities. The farm is beautifully decorated for Halloween, creating a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the spirit of the season. During August you can also visit to pick sunflowers. We absolutely loved visiting this pumpkin patch in Ireland. It is one of the best in the country.
Michael’s Pumpkin Patch (Bunatober, County Galway):
Michael’s Pumpkin Patch is a hidden gem in Connacht, offering a delightful autumn experience with its vast array of pumpkins in every shape, size, and colour imaginable. You are sure to find the perfect one to take home and showcase your creativity. Get up close with their delightful array of farm animals. From sheep and hens to game birds and baby chicks, there’s a charming encounter waiting for everyone. This year, they have some top-secret surprises that will add an extra layer of magic to your visit.
Glendeer Pet Farm (Athlone, County Roscommon):
Glendeer Pet Farm also isn’t a pumpkin patch, but it does offer a spooktastic Halloween event that the kids will love. Cast spells with their scary witch, toast marshmallows over an open fire and enter the eerie maze, but be warned, it’s at your own risk. Talk a walk in the forbidden forest and be scared by ghosts and ghouls! Children can also race on the double obstacle course and lose themselves in the timber maze along with the slides, swings, seesaws and the very popular glider swing in the large outdoor playground. There is also an indoor adventure area with lots of slides and bridges. The event didn’t run in 2023 so be sure to check opening times before visiting.
Graune Pet Farm & Play Centre (Ballyhaunis, County Mayo)
Graune Pet Farm & Play Centre is a hidden gem in Mayo, offering a delightful autumn experience for families. The pumpkin patch is filled with pumpkins of all sizes, ready to be picked and carved. The farm also features indoor and outdoor play areas
The Best Pumpkin Patches in Ireland: Munster
Killarney Pumpkin Farm (Killarney, County Kerry)
Killarney Pumpkin Farm is a wonderful autumn destination in County Kerry, perfect for families and anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit of Halloween. As you wander through the vibrant pumpkin patches, you can pick your own pumpkin to carve or decorate, with options ranging from tiny gourds to giant pumpkins of many colours. The farm also offers seasonal storytelling, hayrides, a haunted corn maze, and a kid-friendly scarecrow trail, making it a fun-filled day out for visitors of all ages. The picturesque setting of the farm, surrounded by Killarney’s stunning landscapes, adds to the charm, making it a must-visit during the autumn season. Make sure you try the Samhain inspired menu and Pumpkin Spice Lattes at The Farm Food Bus!
Joe’s Farm Crisps (Killeagh, County Cork)
Joe’s Farm Crisps, located in East Cork, is not just a spot for picking out a pumpkin; it’s also where you can learn how crisps are made! This unique farm offers pumpkin picking as part of its Halloween events, allowing families to explore the fields, select their pumpkins, and enjoy some farm-fresh produce. The added bonus of taking home some of Joe’s famous crisps makes this an unforgettable autumn experience.
Stonehall Visitor Farm (Curraghchase, County Limerick)
Stonehall Visitor Farm in Limerick is another fantastic destination for a family day out. The farm’s pumpkin patch is a big draw, with a wide selection of pumpkins available for picking. The farm itself is home to a variety of animals, including ponies, deer, and exotic birds, making it an exciting place for children. There’s also a nature trail and picnic areas, perfect for enjoying the crisp autumn air.
Curraghchase Garden Centre (Curraghchase, County Limerick)
The pumpkin patch at Curraghchase Garden Centre offers families the opportunity to pick their perfect pumpkin, as well as use of utensils for onsite carving, access to the storytelling tent, and a trip through their spooky tunnel.
Kingstown Farm (Cashel, County Tipperary)
Situated on the outskirts of Cashel in Co. Tipperary, you will find Kingstown Farm, under the watch of the Rock of Cashel. You can come to pick your own pumpkin or get lost in the spectacular corn maze onsite.
Field of Dreams’ Pick-A-Pumpkin Festival (Curraheen , County Cork)
Taking place at the Field of Dreams, the Pick-A-Pumpkin Festival is a lovely spooktacular event in Curraheen. It includes a Haunted Cabin, Photo Booth, arts and crafts and even a Guess the Pumpkin Weight competition. It takes place over two Sundays in October.
Your Autumn Adventure Awaits
Visiting a pumpkin patch in Ireland is the perfect way to embrace the autumn season. Whether you’re carving out a Jack-o’-lantern or simply enjoying a day in the countryside, these pumpkin patches offer something for everyone. From the rolling hills of Ulster to the scenic landscapes of Munster, there’s a pumpkin patch near you ready to provide a day of family fun and memories that will last a lifetime.
So grab your wellies, pack up the car, and set off on an autumn adventure that your family will remember for years to come. Have you visited a pumpkin patch in Ireland? Share your experiences in the comments below. We would love to hear your stories and tips!
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