Nights are getting darker, days are gradually becoming colder so it can only mean one thing - autumn is here.
It's almost time for spooky fancy dress, witches, cauldrons, fireworks, sparklers and pumpkins.
But with the threat of a pumpkin shortage in supermarkets thanks to Brexit delays and a gloomy UK summer the autumn staple could prove to be more difficult to come by.
So if you can't get yours from a supermarket, it might be more fruitful (and fun!) to go straight to the source - and visit a pumpkin farm.
In recent years pumpkin patches have become a growing trend in Scotland and now we have a list of 10 of the best you can book in for this October.
Arnprior Farm, Stirling, Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & The Forth Valley
Thanks to its fantastic glamping pods and huge pumpkin patch, Arnprior Farm has become a huge hit in the last two years with staycationers.
The farm boasts being Scotland's original, opening in 2015 and and biggest, with more than 15,000 pumpkins fresh for picking.
The farm is great if you're looking for something a bit different to the usual signature orange pumpkin and also has "fabulous green warty pumpkins, beautiful white pumpkins, and even funky stripy ones".
Check their website for details here
Kilduff Farm East Lothian Pumpkin Patch, Edinburgh and The Lothians
The Kilduff Pumpkin Festival has been a big hit every year since it opened in 2018 and runs from October 16 to 31.
The farm has sustainability at the forefront of its values and grows specific varieties for both carving and cooking with.
The farm also offers picking sessions for those with additional support needs. The ASN sessions are designed for children with additional support needs and their families and offer a safe, calm and happy environment for those families who need a little extra support.
To book click here
West Craigie Farm Shop, Edinburgh and The Lothians
West Craigie Farm is perfect for families wanting to spend a wee bit more time in the outdoors. As well as picking the perfect pumpkin, children can enjoy the Little Farmers outdoor play area while their big people enjoy a pumpkin shaped shortbread washed down with a tea/coffee.
The farm also boasts a farm shop selling vegetables, milk and dairy products as well as award-winning sausages, Scottish cheeses, local gins and beers.
To book Craigie's click here
Charleton Farm, Montrose
Charleton Farm offers fruit picking most of the year round, so pumpkin season is no different.
Throughout October families are invited to book in to pick pumpkins and this year the farm has added some knobbly, warty varieties for those looking for something a little different.
The farm also boasts a free adventure play area and an October Treasure Hunt.
For adults there is a couple of eating options, including the cafe, The Stables and Flower Barn and for those on the go, The Pod in the Park.
To book visit Charleton Farm
Westerton Farmers Aberdeen City and Shire
This family business prides itself on sustainability and using renewable energy.
Their October event welcomes families to pick their own pumpkin and visit a collection of fantastic local businesses at the Harvest Market which is held onsite.
Their farm shop,The Spud Hut also sells locally grown produce so you're sure to go away with some delicious home-grown goodies.
To find out how to book click here
Udny Pumpkins, Aberdeen City and Shire
Udny Pumpkins offers lots of activities as well as actual pumpkin picking, including animal petting, colouring competitions, hay bales to play on and even tiny baby chicks to hold.
They have a huge variety of pumpkins too, including white ones, warty ones and even small decorative ones.
Kids can even get to meet the bees that pollenate the pumpkin patch.
For more information on booking visit here
Wester Hardmuir Fruit Farm, Aberdeen City and Shire
Wester Hardmuir Farm offers fruit picking all spring and summer long then when October hits they turn their attention to pumpkins. Unlike most other pumpkin farms, there is no need to book Wester Hardmuir so if you fancy a last minute family day out, this might be a good bet.
For more information visit here
Narrowboat Farm Edinburgh and The Lothians
In the past Narrowboat Farm has hosted pumpkin picking, however following covid, the farm cancelled 2020 event and has decided to sit this year out too. However, all is not lost. The farm is offering something totally unique by way of spooky storytelling Pumpkin-picking boat cruises again this year after partnering with Linlithgow Union Canal Society.
They will also have e will have Pumpkins available at the farm and some photo opps.
For more info, check here
Loch Ness Pumpkins, Highlands
Visitors are able to take a stroll through the patch and pick a pumpkin of their choice as well as enjoying the other activities to entertain the children, along with hot food being available.
For information click here
Broadslap Fruit Farm , Perthshire, tayside.
This fruit farm offers limited slots for pumpkin picking so be quick and get your name down before you miss out.
Click here to find out more
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