tried & tested

I’ve wanted to visit The Patch MK, near Milton Keynes for a while now, so when we were visiting family in Milton Keynes for my mum’s birthday this week, I asked if they’d like us to come and do a Tried and Tested review- lucky Grandma celebrating her birthday chasing the boys round a pumpkin patch!

 

We arrived around 1pm- danger time for my youngest needing a nap, but he was not willing to miss out on the fun by having a nap in the pram! The Patch is located just outside Milton Keynes, near Buckingham, so if you’re driving directly from Hitchin, it’s about an hour. There’s plenty of parking, with attendants to help you locate a space, and it’s only a short walk to the entrance, which was all buggy friendly (obviously the buggy-friendly nature of a large field is often weather dependent, so keep an eye on their social media for updates on how muddy it is! Little ones love riding around in the wheel barrows so for toddlers, that might be a better option).

The Patch MK is family-run by Joe, a 4th generation farmer, along with his wife Roz and their family- their aim is to provide a unique experiencexx, which will be enjoyed by all ages, and create memories and traditions which last a life time.

Entry is just £3 per person (under 2s are free) which includes access to The Patch MK, photo opportunities, play and free parking. Certain activities on site are chargeable at an additional rate per person, including the Barrel Train, pumpkins and food and drink. Timeslots are a set arrival time only- you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing, of course!).

There’s so much to keep the kids entertained at The Patch MK, and loads of great photo opportunities.

 

My two headed straight to the maze, which they loved climbing on and jumping between the bales.

Across from the bales is a great climbing trailer with slides, and beyond that is the infamous barrel train which drives thrill-seekers around the field (additional charge of £2.50 per person), as well as a coffee stand (a must for many parents!).

There are also great vintage fairground games within a large shed- try your (steady) hand at the wire loop buzzer game and throw balls to knock down pumpkins and zombies in The Zombie Zone!

Plus there's a climbing wall, which was very popular with my 6 year old.

There are other great photo opportunities in the main area, including the pumpkin house, pumpkin coach and my favourite- the pumpkin trailer!


Finally, it was time to go pumpkin picking!! As I said, there are literally thousands of pumpkins spread over the patch, so you’re really spoilt for choice- from huge orange pumpkins to beautiful white ghost pumpkins and quirky gourds. Wheelbarrows are littered around, which are great fun for pushing the kids (and their pumpkins) around on.

Of course, there are yet more brilliant photo opportunities throughout the patch itself, which my boys loved! Ride a broomstick, pose like Dracula, have tea in a large wire pumpkin or climb the giant ‘PUMPKINS’ sign- there is so much to do as well as choosing your Halloween pumpkins.

Speaking of pumpkins, you can choose to select your pumpkins from the patch, or there are also crates full of pre-picked pumpkins near the hay bales. Pumpkins are charged on their size and vary in price from £1 upwards- as a guide, a standard carving pumpkin starts from £3 and an absolute wheel barrow filling whopper is £10+. There are handy sizing guides around to give you an idea.

Food-wise, you’re welcome to bring a picnic, or why not try The Patch Pantry, which is located in a large, comfortable and spacious marquee, serving freshly prepared food, barista coffee, luxury hot chocolate and delicious cake.

If you’re looking for Halloween fancy dress, accessories, face paints, decorations and games, then make sure to visit The Patch Little Shop of Horrors.

Facepainters will be on site from the 25th – 30th October!

Once you’re done carving your pumpkins, don’t let the flesh go to waste- check out the recipe boards around the site to help you create tasty treats from your chosen pumpkins and squash.

Baby changing facilities can be found in the accessible toilet.       

You can find all FAQS here. 

The Patch MK is open daily throughout half term until Sunday October 31st 9:30am – 5pm.

ps Grandma absolutely loved it too!

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