Best Pumpkin Picking Spots Near The Kingsley In Cork

Looking for a fun activity to do near the Kingsley Hotel in Cork this autumn? Why not go pumpkin picking? There are a few great spots around the county where you can find the perfect pumpkin to take home for you to carve or make some fresh pumpkin pie!

Pumpkin Patch at The Farm, Grenagh

The Pumpkin Patch at The Farm, Grenagh, offers plenty of pumpkins to pick and choose from. You can pick your own pumpkins or get one already carved for you. Their pumpkins are well looked after and range in size from ‘Munchkin’ to ‘Large’. So there’s a choice for everybody!

You’ll be happy to know that children aged 1 and under are Free and will receive a free munchkin pumpkin (just don’t let them carve it with a knife!).

If you are unlucky with the weather and find yourself caught in the rain, parts of the farm are indoors so you can be sheltered. But it’s recommended to bring appropriate clothing – more on that further down.. We all know what the weather is like here in Ireland!

You can book your tickets here.

It’s only 19.7 km away from The Kingsley Hotel.

Joe’s Farm Crisps Pumpkin Patch

Every year, Joe’s Farm offers pumpkin picking, where guests can enjoy a walk around the farm, pick some freshly grown vegetables, learn about the farm life, and most importantly – pick from their famous pumpkin patch.

Similar to The Farm in Grenagh, it’s recommended to dress appropriately for the weather, especially at this time of year when rain can fall at any time.

Don’t wear your designer shoes or expensive jeans, and prepare to get mucky. After all – this is a working farm!

It’s worth mentioning that no dogs are allowed, and they don’t have any bank card facilities – so it’s cash-only here.

Also, access to the pumpkin patch is limited, so wheelchairs and baby buggies are not suitable, so do note this before visiting.

You can book your tickets here.

A bit further away, but definitely worth the drive at 46.5 km from The Kingsley Hotel.

How Do I Carve A Pumpkin?

1. To start off, we simply cut a hole in the very top of the pumpkin that’s just large enough to fit your hand through. This will be the opening for carving.
2. Using a spoon or similar, spoon the pulp, seeds or anything else you find out. Feel free to throw out these seeds, or alternatively if you are feeling really festive, you can roast them for a tasy halloween treat! Here is a good recipe.
3. Once the pumpkin is clean, it’s time to start carving. You can either freehand a design or use a stencil. If you’re using a stencil, tape it to the pumpkin and use a sharp knife to trace around it.
4. Once your design is carved, remove the excess pumpkin flesh from around it.
5. To finish, place a candle inside the pumpkin and light it. Your carved pumpkin is now ready to be displayed! You can use a real candle, or some people are even using LED ones.

What To Wear To A Pumpkin Patch?

As mentioned earlier, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and for the activity. I’m sure most of us in Ireland know how to dress appropriately for our temperamental weather.

Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, and clothes that you won’t mind getting muddy or wet. It’s also a good idea to wear layers in case it gets cold.

A hat and gloves are also recommended, as well as a scarf if it’s windy that day or just simply cold.

Bring a camera to capture all the fun, and if you’re going with young children, don’t forget to bring snacks and drinks for them.

Pumpkin picking is a great activity for all the family, and it’s something different to do this autumn. So why not give it a try at a pumpkin patch near The Kingsley?

If pumpkin picking isn’t on your agenda, why not go for a nice autumn stroll at some of the best walks in Cork?