Discover why Swithens Farm’s Pumpkin Picking Evening in Rothwell, Leeds is one of Yorkshire’s best family Halloween events. A magical night of tractor rides, trails, and affordable fun.

5★ Review: Swithens Farm Pumpkin-Picking Evening, Rothwell, Leeds

If you’re looking for a family-friendly Halloween event that keeps the magic alive without the hefty price tag, Swithens Farm in Rothwell, Leeds is a must-visit. We already love this farm year-round for its friendly animals, spacious play areas and brilliant farm shop, so when we saw they were hosting a pumpkin-picking evening, it went straight on our calendar.

Why We Love Swithens Farm

Swithens has always been brilliant value for families — plenty of space for kids to run around, a great sandpit and climbing frame, and animals that never fail to make little faces light up.Tickets for the pumpkin evening were just £4.50 per person (under-2s free) and £4 per pumpkin, which is much cheaper than many similar events in Yorkshire. We’d booked early and even got a reduced price — such a bonus!

To make it even more fun, we turned it into a “Mummy & Noah vs Daddy & Lily” pumpkin-carving competition — a new Halloween tradition in the making.

Spooky Details and Farm Fun

The whole site looked fantastic, decorated with fairy lights, spooky props and lots of interactive Halloween touches. Even the staff had joined in with themed accessories, which made the atmosphere extra special.

Although the main animal barn was closed for the evening, we still got to visit the guinea pigs, rabbits and lambs before the main event began.

The Tractor Ride

This was easily one of the highlights. Sitting on a huge tractor, wobbling along through the dark countryside with spiders dangling from the sides and a storyteller sharing tales about a witch in the woods — it was pure Halloween joy. The crisp night air, the giggles from the kids, the occasional squeal — perfect family memories.

The Woodland Trail

We love a good trail, and Swithens didn’t disappoint. Skeletons, witches, giant monsters and glowing pumpkins appeared around every corner, all lit by fairy lights that made the whole thing feel both magical and just spooky enough for little ones.

When we reached the witch’s cabin, even brave Noah hesitated — until she handed him a packet of Haribo, and all was forgiven.

The Pumpkin Patch

The pumpkins themselves were in great condition — no mushy ones in sight! The tractor driver told the kids to “listen carefully because the pumpkins choose you” — which, of course, they absolutely believed. After much deliberation, each child found the one.

While waiting for the tractor back, the kids joined an impromptu Halloween disco on a barn stage, dancing to “Monster Mash” and “Ghostbusters” under twinkly lights — a simple touch that made the evening feel extra thoughtful.

Back at the Farm

Back on site, there was everything you could want to round off the night: a huge pumpkin-carving area with plenty of tables and tools, a bar serving hot and cold drinks, and a pizza stand that smelled irresistible. There was also a bouncy castle for restless little legs, so parents could carve in peace.

As creative parents, Jonny and I got thoroughly involved — and I’m proud to say my pumpkin definitely held its own!

There were a few extra rides and stalls at a small additional cost, but honestly, the kids were so busy carving, dancing and exploring that we never needed them.

Final Thoughts

Swithens Farm have nailed the balance between fun, affordability and atmosphere. It’s wholesome, family-run and full of heart — exactly what you want from a local Halloween event.

We’ll absolutely be back next year, and I can’t recommend it enough for families with children of any age.

Overall rating: 5/5 – fantastic value, wonderful staff, perfect festive fun.

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