Pumpkin Picking at Scott's of Southend

Rain is what undoes most pumpkin patch plans, and this one has an answer to it. Alongside the outdoor patch there is a fully covered indoor Pumpkin Barn, included in the same admission, so a wet Saturday does not write off the trip.

Admission also covers the Maize Walk, and Highland cattle can be seen from the paddock as you go round. Photo stations and seasonal displays are set up through the patch, and at weekends and during half term spooky characters roam the site.

Pumpkins are not included in the entry price. They are sold separately, starting from £1, and food, drinks, merchandise and optional activities are charged on top as well. Booking online in advance saves £1 per person against the on-the-door price.

Visits run as 90-minute sessions with an arrival time chosen when you book, so it pays to turn up close to your slot rather than drifting in late. Bookings made through a DigiTickets account can be changed up to 12 hours beforehand for a £1.50 amendment fee.

The event is fully dog friendly, with dogs on lead at all times and dedicated dog photo stations. Parking on site is free and there are visitor toilets. One thing worth knowing on arrival: the patch is held in the field and polytunnel on the right of the site, with its own entrance from the car park, rather than inside the main garden centre.