Autumn is just around the corner, which can only mean one thing: pumpkin season has arrived! Pull on your wellies, grab a wheelbarrow and head into the fields in search of the perfect pumpkin. Whether you're after a giant orange showstopper, a quirky warty gourd or something a little different for your doorstep display, Dorset's pumpkin patches are packed with pick-your-own opportunities this October.
Many locations offer much more than pumpkin picking too, with maize mazes, carving stations, family activities, delicious local food and plenty of photo opportunities. As seasonal events can be subject to change, it's always worth checking directly with the organiser before travelling.
Gorcombe Pumpkins
Head to Gorcombe Farm near Blandford Forum, where you'll find pumpkins in all shapes, sizes and colours. Wander through the pumpkin patch in search of the perfect one to take home, then stop by The Happy Farmer Café for refreshments.
Event dates: 1 to 31 October 2026 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Farmer Palmers Farm Park
October half term is always a great time to visit Farmer Palmer's Farm Park near Poole.
Halloween Half Term returns from 24 October to 1 November 2026, bringing plenty of spooky silliness for younger visitors. Families can take on the Halloween Quiz, get their wiggles out at the Snotbags Disco and explore the Maize Maze, alongside all the usual animal encounters, indoor attractions and outdoor play areas that make Farmer Palmer's such a popular family day out. Optional extras including Soak-a-Spook and Candy Dash will also be available throughout the event.
Event dates: 24 October to 1 November 2026.
Pumpkin rolling at Forde Abbey
Fun for the young, and the young at heart, pumpkin rolling returns to Forde Abbey this autumn.
Choose a pumpkin from the Abbey's harvest display before carrying it to the top lawn and seeing how far it will roll down the slope. It's a wonderfully simple tradition that has quickly become one of the highlights of October half term.
Normal admission prices apply, plus an additional charge for your chosen pumpkin.
Event dates: 25 October to 2 November 2026, 10.30am to 4pm
Pumpkin carving at the Blue Pool
Get creative this October at The Blue Pool near Wareham.
Follow the haunted woodland trail, solve spooky clues and carve your own pumpkin before taking it home or displaying it on site. There will also be Halloween crafts, face painting and family-friendly activities taking place throughout the week.
No booking is required, and activities can be booked on the day.
Event dates: 24 to 31 October 2026.
Dewflock Farm Pumpkins
Head down to Dewflock Farm near Dorchester for a wholesome autumn day out packed with family fun.
Pick your own pumpkins, explore the maize maze, meet the farm animals, enjoy face painting and bounce around in the play areas. There is also plenty of indoor space if the weather takes a turn, while the Pig Shed Café will be serving refreshments and barbecue favourites throughout the event.
Event dates: 10, 11, 17, 18, and 24 to 30 October 2026
Bincombe Bumps Pumpkins
Bincombe Bumps Pumpkins near Weymouth is back for another Halloween season, offering much more than just pumpkin picking. Wander through the pumpkin patch in search of the perfect pumpkin to carve or display, then make a day of it with outdoor play areas, a haunted house, trick-or-treat fun and plenty of seasonal surprises along the way.
There's also a selection of drinks, lunches and autumn treats available on site, making it easy to settle in and enjoy a few hours of spooky family fun. Better still, entry to the pumpkin patch is free and dogs on leads are welcome too.
Event dates: 10 & 11 October, 17 & 18 October, and 24 to 31 October 2026, 10am to 4pm.
Pumpkin Patch at Gullivers Farm
Get ready to pick your perfect pumpkin at Gullivers Farm in West Moors. The farm's popular pumpkin patch returns this October, offering pumpkins in a range of shapes and sizes, alongside family-friendly autumn activities. Visitors can also enjoy the farm shop and café while making the most of the season.
Event dates: Please check directly with Gullivers Farm for the latest 2026 pumpkin patch opening dates and Pumpkin Fest details.
