A West Cumbrian family farm has opened a new pumpkin patch just in time for autumn.
Kate Perna and Ian Knight, who own Stephney Farm in Calderbridge near Seascale, decided to create a pick-your-own pumpkin patch as a new venture outside of their usual sheep and beef farming.
Kate, 40, who also teaches full-time at Whitehaven Academy, said: “I’ve taken our children to nearby pumpkin patches on a couple of occasions and loved how excited they were by the experience.
“As with many other farms in the current climate we are looking for opportunities to diversify and a pumpkin patch seemed perfect for us.
“Autumn is a great time of year. It’s a time of year that is a little quieter on the farm…maybe! I also love events planning too.
“This is a lot bigger than anything I’ve done before but I’m excited to bring lots of family fun to the local people of West Cumbria and can’t wait to see some amazing costumes and happy faces this autumn.”
The patch is suitable for families, children, groups of friends and adults. Alongside the traditional pumpkin picking that will be on offer, the family of five are also planning to host additional autumnal activities.
Some of their family’s farm animals will be on site for people to meet and Halloween crafts and activities for children of all ages will go ahead, including three nights of autumn wreath making with Helen’s Herbs.
Food including freshly made pizzas from the Sawmill pizza van will be on offer alongside cakes from Emma’s Bakes, autumnal drinks and snack packs for younger children.
Halloween and autumn themed toys, gifts, and homeware will also be up for sale, which Kate said was a way for the family to support local businesses.
Photographer I Love You Thirteen, who loves the Halloween season, will also be offering mini photoshoots at the patch.
Kate added that they also plan to work with several nursery’s, young farmer groups and charities throughout the month.
Props and backdrops will also be set up for Instagram picture opportunities and visitors are encouraged to dress-up, with a prize up for grabs for best dressed.
While no adult only events will take place on the patch – the family said this might change next year.
Kate’s partner Ian’s family are fifth generation farmers who are originally from the Wasdale Valley. They moved over to Calderbridge around 15 years ago where they they now live with their extended family on the farm.
Pumpkin picking days will take place every weekend in October starting on Saturday September 7 and over the entire half-term week towards the end of the month. Families and groups can choose from two time slots from 10am-12pm and 1pm to 3pm.
Tickets cost £3.50 for each person aged over two years old and are still available for purchase. Time slots must be booked in advance as spaces are limited.
More information can be found on the farm’s Facebook page.
