Ripon BID’s Free 2-Day Pop-Up Pumpkin Patch & Trail – The Perfect Half-Term Day Out!

This autumn, Ripon is turning up the charm with a magical, FREE family adventure you won’t want to miss. On Thursday 30th and Friday 31st October, from 10am–2pm, Ripon’s historic Market Square will transform into a pop-up pumpkin paradise – the perfect way to celebrate the season, snap those Instagram-worthy shots, and make unforgettable memories.

The fun starts with the Pumpkin Trail. From Saturday 25th October, visitors can pick up a trail sheet from participating businesses, explore Ripon’s picturesque streets, and hunt down hidden pumpkins in shop windows. Complete the trail, and you’ll gain exclusive entry to the Pumpkin Patch, where children can pick their very own pumpkin for free* – ready to carve or decorate.

Businesses taking part:

Linley & Simpson9/11 Old Market Place, Ripon HG4 1EQ
Solemates5, Queen Street, Ripon, HG4 1EG
Pet Shop13, Old Market Place, Ripon, HG4 1EQ
Big Bites14, Market Place East, Ripon, HG4 1BP
Easy Learning ShopUnit 2, Duck Hill Small Shops, Kirkgate, Ripon, HG4 1BL
Valentino’s14/15, Westgate, Ripon, HG4 2AT
Specsavers28/29 Market Place West, Ripon HG4 1BN
St Michael’s Hospice6 North Street, Ripon, HG4 1JY
Skipton Building Society1 Market Place East, Ripon HG4 1BP
Ripon LibraryMoss Arcade, Ripon HG4 1AG
Wakeman’s House33 Market Place South, Ripon, HG4 1BZ
The Green House11 North Street, Ripon HG4 1JY

That’s not all – meet Ripon’s friendly resident Scarecrow, strike a pose at the quirky face-in-the-hole photo board, and soak up the vibrant autumn atmosphere. It’s a wholesome, screen-free activity that’s just as fun for grown-ups as it is for little ones.

Make a day of it! While you’re here, discover Ripon’s wealth of independent shops, charming cafés, and tempting restaurants. Whether it’s a cosy coffee and cake, a hearty pub lunch, or some unique gifts from local boutiques, Ripon offers the perfect backdrop for a full day out.

With its cobbled streets, historic charm, and warm Yorkshire welcome, Ripon is the ideal spot for a half-term escape. Just a short drive from Harrogate, York, Leeds and the North East this is your chance to explore a beautiful city, support local businesses, and enjoy a completely free family activity.

This event is in partnership with Visit North Yorkshire and supported by Linley & Simpson and Specsavers, Ripon.

Event Details:
📍 Location: Ripon Market Square & participating businesses
📅 Dates: Pumpkin Trail – from Saturday 25th October
🎃 Pumpkin Patch: Thursday 30th & Friday 31st October, 10am–2pm
💰 Cost: FREE (*Access to the pumpkin patch with a completed trail sheet; children must be accompanied by an adult.)