Pumpkin Picking at Church Farm, Ardeley

A mixed organic farm rather than a purpose-built attraction, Church Farm at Ardeley turns over the last week of October to Spookfest, and the animals stay at the centre of it. The Spookfest Farm Day Pass covers a farm trail to meet them, a Pumpkin Hunt, the Creepy Fairy Woodland and a Halloween themed activity pack.

Picking your own pumpkin is an optional extra booked on top of the day pass, and carving in the marquee comes with it, so the pumpkin goes home finished rather than whole. The Woodland Spookfest trick or treat and the Horrid Hay Rides are add-ons in the same way. Spot the Pumpkin runs through the event with sweet treat prizes.

The tone is deliberately spooky rather than terrifying and all ages are welcome, which makes this an easier choice for a three-year-old than some half term events. There is no charge for under twos, and dogs are welcome at the farm.

Booking is done online through the farm's Checkfront system and costs less than paying on arrival. The shop and cafe are open alongside the event seven days a week, and the farm also hires out wood cabins and runs glamping if you want to make more than a day of it.