FAQs:

  • Finding us:

    Please use postcode LE15 8DF - this will bring you to our location. Please look out for a sign which says ‘Live Lab’ - this is where you need to turn right, pumpkin patch parking is located immediately on your left - in the field. Please note we are operating a one way system - you will enter the pumpkin patch here, but the exit is through a gateway in the field.

  • Refreshments: We will be joined by Roaming Giraffe events on the weekends (moreish sweet treats, incredible ‘loaded’ hot chocs and teas/coffees)

  • Payments: We accept both cash and card payments, as do Roaming Giraffe

  • Opening times:

    14th and 15th October: 10am - 4pm

    20th - 28th October: 10am - 4pm

    29th October: 10am - 1pm

  • Facilities

    • There is a portaloo at the pumpkin patch.

  • Pets

    • Unfortunately we are unable to welcome dogs to the pumpkin patch.

pumpkin banner.PNG
 

The Pumpkins

Back for our fourth year - we can’t wait to see you!

In May 2020, James and Peta launched Rutland Pumpkins - planting 8,000 pumpkin seeds on a field adjacent to James’ sister Abigail’s business, Live Lab, which provides grain, feedstuff and soil analysis for farmers across the country. We were delighted with how many people came to see us and cannot wait to see you all again this year!

Before planting our first pumpkins seeds in 2020, as a pumpkin patch novice Peta sought the advice of pumpkin patch veterans Rob and Jen, of Yorkshire Pumpkins. Just in the nick of time too, the pumpkin seeds were about to be drilled in the ground and Rob informed us that a maize drill would definitely not do for planting pumpkins! As you know, maize grows upwards, therefore the seeds can be planted quite close together – not so for pumpkins – which need ample room to spread their vines and tendrils! This was timely advice and we were able to work with local contractors to buy the requisite plates and drill the pumpkin seeds with enough room to grow.

Fast-forward to 2023 and we are excited to welcome you all back to the pumpkin patch, for our fourth year! This year, pumpkin varieties include Jack be Little’s, small white Casperitas, colourful Turks Turbans, non-edible gourds - incredible shapes and sizes and your traditional carving varieties like the Early Abundance and Early King. The Early King can reach up to 12 kilograms in weight, so they really do require a wheelbarrow to be carted around - we have lots of wheelbarrows available to borrow!

We’re welcoming back Roaming Giraffe events this year, who will be serving up delicious cakes, as well as their divine loaded hot chocolates - perfect for a chilly autumn outing! We cannot wait to see you all at the patch !