Smithills Open Farm at Bolton, in Greater Manchester, runs a pumpkin-picking event each October at its family open farm. You choose your own pumpkins from an outdoor patch in a woodland setting, with costumed characters and Halloween scenes. It is a per-pumpkin event (charged at around £6 per pumpkin), separate from general farm admission, and pre-booked.
About Smithills Open Farm
Smithills is a family open farm at Smithills Dean Road, Bolton, open year-round with farm animals and play. Each October it runs a dedicated pumpkin-picking event with an outdoor patch and Halloween theming.
Pumpkin Picking at Smithills Open Farm
You choose your own pumpkins from the outdoor patch, in a woodland setting with costumed characters such as zombie farmers and scarecrows, and fancy dress is encouraged. It is charged per pumpkin (around £6 each), separate from general farm admission, with a maximum of 30 pumpkins per booking. We have not been able to confirm whether the pumpkins are grown on site or set out in the patch, so it is best thought of as a “choose your own” pumpkin event. Pre-booking is required.
Opening Times & Prices
2026 dates: opens Sat 17 October, runs to Sat 31 October; Sat 17 to Sun 18 Oct, then daily Sat 24 to Sat 31 Oct; 10:00 to 17:00 (farm hours; event times not separately stated); timed tickets, book ahead; entry £6 per pumpkin, separate from farm admission; pumpkins £6 per pumpkin (as published by the farm, checked Mon 7 September; source).
The pumpkin picking runs on selected October dates (in 2025 on 11, 12, 18, 19 and 25 to 31 October). It is charged at around £6 per pumpkin (adults free unless picking), booked via the farm’s online ticketing, and is separate from general farm admission. The dates for the coming season had not been published at the time of writing.
Getting There & Visitor Information
- Location: Smithills Open Farm, Smithills Dean Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL1 7NS.
- Booking: pre-booking required (separate from general farm admission).
- Good to know: it is pram-friendly and fancy dress is encouraged; we have not been able to confirm the dog policy.
Contact
Address: Smithills Open Farm, Smithills Dean Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL1 7NS
Phone: +44 1204 595765
Email: info@smithillsopenfarm.co.uk
Website: smithillsopenfarm.co.uk
Facebook: @smithillsopenfarm
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
You choose your own pumpkins from the outdoor patch, charged at around £6 per pumpkin, separate from general farm admission, with a maximum of 30 pumpkins per booking. Pre-booking is required.
When is it open?
On selected dates in October. Check the farm’s website for the current dates and to book.
More pumpkin picking nearby
Cooking your pumpkin? Try Best Pumpkin Cookies Recipes for Home Cooks, How to Make an Amazing Pumpkin Risotto, Pumpkin Muffin Recipes to Make this Fall.