Here's where to pick a pumpkin near Derry

Thankfully, there’s a few places in and around Derry where picking the perfect pumpkin can be an experience for all the family, and not just a trip to the supermarket. Most of these pumpkin patches are outdoors, so suitable clothing and footwear is necessary but, thankfully, they all have hot drinks to keep your hands toasty.

Fulton’s Pumpkin Patch is located between Donemana and Artigarvan and has a corn maze and refreshments available to buy on-site. They also have picnic benches so you can make a day of it and bring a packed lunch. No need to leave the furry friends at home, dogs are welcome as long as they stay on a lead. Staff are more than happy to take family pictures, just ask. Visit Https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/406975082427 to book a ticket.

Maxwell’s American-themed Pumpkin Patch is located in Castlederg, over a half an hour outside of Derry but it is definitely worth the visit. Maxwell’s has a full menu of sweet drinks and treats, a maize maze and some spooky (but friendly) friends who visit the patch. You can pick your own pumpkin, too, and get the perfect pic for Instagram. Booking is essential so visit maxwellspumpkinpatch.digitickets.co.uk to book.

Kids can grab a mini wheelbarrow and go search the first pumpkin patch at Seacoast Garden Centre in Limavady. Staff will be on hand to help with carving and kids can make a gooey slime to take home. The cost is £10 per child and £2.50 per adult, which includes the pumpkin, hotdogs, chocolate apples and the chance to sit around an open fire and toast mallows and s’mores. Call 02877765900 to book or email [email protected].

IOSAS Centre are hosting a pumpkin sale and funday on Saturday, October 29 from 10:30 to 2:30pm. The pumpkins will we pre-picked so you can choose which one you want, have fun in the photo area, view the market stalls of organic veg and enjoy the food from the cafe. There is also a fancy dress costume. For more information, visit www.sanctuarydonegal.com.