Popular family destination announces 'temporary pause' on summer events

A popular Northamptonshire farm has announced that its much-loved summer Fun and Flower Fields will not take place this year, as the farmers behind the attraction make a long-term investment in the health of their land. 

The Patch MK, located just outside Milton Keynes, has welcomed tens-of-thousands of visitors each summer for the past five years, offering vibrant pick-your-own sunflower fields, expansive wildflower displays, and family-friendly outdoor experiences. However, for summer 2026, the team has made the decision to rest the soil in the flower fields. 

Known for its commitment to organic growing methods, The Patch MK does not rely on artificial fertilisers or intensive farming practices in their flower growing. Instead, the farm prioritises sustainable techniques that support soil health and biodiversity. Allowing the land to recover this season will ensure that future sunflower and wildflower displays continue to thrive at the high standard visitors have come to expect. 

“This year we’ve made the decision not to open our sunflower and wildflower fields to the public. It’s been a tough decision, but we know that it is the right one,” says Joseph Gurney of The Patch MK. 

“We stick closely to organic growing methods in our flower fields and therefore, to ensure the best possible future harvests, we need to give the soil in our flower fields a rest this year. Although we are not opening our sunflower fields this year, we will be re-opening in the autumn for our annual pick-your-own pumpkin events, and we know that our Halloween events will be bigger than ever.” 

While the summer season will be paused, The Patch MK has confirmed that it will return later in the year with its popular autumn programme, including pumpkin picking and Halloween-themed activities, which have become a seasonal favourite for families across the region. 

The Patch MK remains one of the area’s most popular seasonal attractions, run by the Gurney family, now in their fourth generation of farming.  

For updates and further information, visit www.thepatchmk.co.uk.