As summer starts to turn to Autumn, thoughts turn to cosy nights and of course the spookiest day of the year - October 31.
Although it may seem a bit early to be thinking about Halloween, to get the best of the crop, keen pumpkin pickers need to get in early.
Some pick your own patches open as soon as the beginning of October so if you and your little ones want to get the pick of the bunch, now is the time to start making plans.
And it's always good to have the carved masterpiece on display in you window for as long as possible during October.
With social distancing in place this year, some favourites from over the years are not offering pick your own pumpkins this year and others are implementing ticket only admission, so booking sooner rather than later could mean avoiding disappointment.
Some local places have already released information about dates and tickets, and others are announcing them in the near future.
1. West Lodge Farm
Located in Desborough, West Lodge has changed the way it runs its halloween fun this year to allow for social distancing. From October 17 until November 1, the pumpkin patch will be available, but customers need to book a time slot of an hour to be allowed on. Costing £14, the ticket includes entrance to the farm, the chance to pick a pumpkin and carve it, a wand making activity, a witch’s house tour and more spooky activities. Visit the farm's website to find tickets.
2. Mini Meadows
The children’s activity farm close to Welford will host a pumpkin patch as well as ‘spooky’ halloween trail.
During the week of October half term, October 24-31, customers will be able to pick their own pumpkin then bring it back to the carving station.
Pre-booking is essential and tickets, which include the trail and one pumpkin, cost £7.50.
Tickets can be purchased from the farm's website.
3. Wappenham Farm
The Towcester-based farm will be open for pumpkin picking from October 17 to 31.
As well as picking their favourite pumpkin, children will also be able to enjoy a spooky trail and listen to scary stories.
Pre-booking is mandatory and can be done on the farm’s website.
4. Overstone Grange Farm
The farm located just off the A43 between Moulton and Holcot, is opening on October 3 for pumpkin picking. There will be nine different varieties of pumpkin and squash to choose from.
Details of prices and times will be announced soon. To keep up to date, type Overstone Grange Farm into Facebook.
Photo: Kirtsy Edmonds.