FAQS
PYO PUMPKINS IN HOO, ROCHESTER, KENTWhen Are you open?
The 2023 Season
Saturday & Sunday 21st and 22nd
Half term to be decided, see facebook for updates
Following our Covid19 opening in October 2020 we learnt many thing about our business. It became clear that the booking system allows a much more controlled atmosphere to picking pumpkins. Many of our customers gave positive feed back as to how more relaxed and friendly the experience was.
With a controlled booking system, we are able to continue to offer this experience, but in 2020 we found many people booked a ticket, but did not come to the farm, thus other customers who wanted to pick a pumpkin also missed out. In 2021 we decided to charge a small fee for entry to the carpark to help cover our increased costs. They never decrease and in 2022 we have seen unbelievable price increases in seed, fertilizer, nutrients, water and labour costs. We teamed up with Trybooking.com in 2021 to provide the ticket booking for our exciting experience of pumpkin picking. All other competitors have already started this new way.
Do I need to book to visit?
Yes. You will need to book a ticket through our ‘Book now Button’ found on our HOME webpage.
NO ticket = NO entry
If you have any special requirements such as disabled parking or assistance dog then please do send an email so we can let the correct people know.
We also reserve the right to amend, change or cancel any booking or day without prior notification without needing to provide a reason.
What time do you open?
There will be a morning session from 10.00am
What time do you close?
We close the Farm Gates Entrance at 3.00pm
How much do the pumpkins cost?
In 2021 we reverted back to selling our Pumpkin, Squashes and Corn on an individual basis.
Prices will be clearly displayed at the entrance or Exit/Payment points to ensure everyone has an opportunity to understand how much the pumpkins, Squash and corn cost.
We also reserve the right to offer Special deals at any time, or to withdraw special deals at any time without notice.
Do you have car parking?
Yes we have ample car parking within the farm on grass fields. The car park will be clearly marked from the road. Do not park on the roadside as our local road are extremely busy and many HGV vehicle use them. Please follow the instructions from the car parking marshalls. Please be patient while we try to get you parked. We operate a one way system so when leaving the car park please again follow the marshals to the exit and drive carefully and slowly as there are very excited children (and adults!!) running around. There will be disabled parking available please ask the car park marshals when you arrive.
How does it work?
Follow the pumpkin signs from Four Elms roundabout A228 to Beluncle Farm, Hoo. Enter the farm from the main road and we will scan your ticket for entry, using your QR code (this will be at the bottom of your email from Trybooking.com). If you do not have a ticket you will be asked to leave the farm via the first track to the farmyard and exit if we have any spaces you will be informed but you still need to book.
Once in the car park please follow marshall directions and instructions. After which head towards the field entrance and collect a wheelbarrow.
The fields are now your hunting ground to find your perfect pumpkin or squash. we have planted many areas of coloured pumpkins, which all contain a different mix of varieties.
You can also create some wonderful family memories at the photo displays, many of which are new for 2022.
When you have finished come to the exit and payment checkout where we will calculate your purchases and take payment.
Can I take photographs?
Yes of course you can take photographs of your family and friends at PYO Pumpkins. We do not allow drones. Please be conscious of the people around you when taking photographs and have a look at our Photography policy. If you are a professional photographer then we do charge a small site fee as detailed in our photography policy and would welcome you to get in touch prior to your visit.
Do I need to cut the pumpkins off their vines?
No, the pumpkins will already be cut off their vines. You must NOT bring any secateurs, pen knives, knives, scissors or sharp blades. You will be asked to put these in your car if found, or surrender to staff, until your departure.
Do you have a toilet?
Yes, there will be portaloos in the field.
Is it a farm shop?
We are a farm that sells our pumpkin and squash crop from the field. We have some facilities such as toilets, snack bar and a shop selling carving and decorating items for pumpkins.
Do you have food and drink for sale?
Yes we have a snack shop selling cold drinks, chocolate, sweets and crisps.
Can I bring my dog?
NO, We are sorry but dogs, even on leads, are not allowed in the field or farm yard, except assistance dogs. This is for health and safety and hygiene reasons as many people eat the pumpkins. If you have an assistance dog please contact us before you visit so that we can inform our staff.
I am having a party or wedding, can you supply pumpkins?
Yes we can supply pumpkins for your event. Please email pyopumpkins@outlook.com to discuss this further as we can arrange collection at a different time.
Do you take credit/debit cards?
Yes we take Mastercard and Visa debit or credit. We do not take American Express . We will not accept £50 notes or cheques.
Are there lots of pumpkins left?
We have planted thousands of pumpkins. Our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages will be updated regularly from the field with all the latest pumpkin information. Our website is also updated using the Facebook ‘live’ feed on our home page. Please check social media prior to leaving home.
Do I need to bring bags to put my pumpkins in?
Yes please bring bags. Reusable supermarket bags, ikea type bags or strong recycling bags are excellent for carrying your pumpkins to the car and keeping your car clean. Black bin bags are not strong enough to carry many heavy pumpkins.
Will I get muddy?
If it is dry, it is unlikely. If it has rained there is a strong possibility you will get muddy. The pumpkins are in a field and so may be muddy as well. We do not have running water in the field so advise you bring something to clean hands and bags to put dirty shoes/boots in.
What should I wear?
You will be in a field which can be muddy. We recommend wearing clothes suitable for outside and appropriate footwear such as wellies or outside boots. You may want to wear gloves as the stalks can be prickly especially for young hands. Wrap up warm as it can be windy, wet and cold in the field.
Is Pumpkin Picking Suitable for everyone?
We would like to think everyone is welcome at PYO Pumpkins. If you need any specific information or have any special requirements we will endeavour to help you.
If I feel unwell should I still come?
If you are feeling unwell please do not come to the farm. We would ask you and your family to stay aware if you are displaying any symptoms of COVID 19 (Coronavirus) such as a new persistent cough, high temperature, loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
Can I bring a pushchair or wheelchair?
Yes you can bring a pushchair or wheelchair however the pumpkin field can be muddy (if it has been raining) and the ground is uneven. The car park, entrance and area with the marquees is all grass. There are also grass strips amongst the rows of pumpkins making access possible to the furthest points. There is disabled parking available, please ask the car park marshal. Please contact us before you visit if you have a specific query.
Refunds
Please refer to the terms and conditions for ticket sales. Please refer to the gift certificate terms and conditions for gift vouchers.