Last updated : 3/10/2019
The Slindon pumpkin display attracts visitors from far and wide every autumn and last year marked its 50th anniversary. Read how a tiny village on the edge of the South Downs National Park attracts hoards of visitors every year to the incredible display of pumpkins in Top Road.
The pumpkin murals have been an annual event since 1968 when the late Ralph Upton created his first display in the barns next to his home, and they are constructed today by his son and their team. There are images of previous years’ murals on their website, slindonpumpkins.co.uk, as well as videos from recent times telling the story of how the displays are created.
2019 Slindon pumpkin display
The 2019 display has a marine theme and was installed by Mark Ford. It is highlighting the effects of plastic on sea creatures and they are raising money for the Marine Conservation Society with posters showing how our waste is ruining the oceans.
2018 Slindon pumpkin display
Last year’s mural showed RNAS airship SSZ 28 returning to the Slindon Airfield after an anti-submarine patrol flight over the English Channel. Also depicted is Chichester Cathedral’s spire, and a local folly which was used as a radio station for the airships and the RNAS station. The display commemorates the 100th anniversary of the RAF and the Armistice.
Pumpkins For Sale
The range of pumpkins on display and for sale is extraodinary. There are over 50 different types of pumpkin and 30 varieties of squash as well as a few marrows thrown in for good measure.
I took my Mum to this year’s display and we had a marvellous time looking around the veg for sale. Helpful signs explain what each type is best for, including stuffing, roasting, making into soups and curries.
There were so many shapes and sizes for sale. Ralph and his wife produce a pumpkin recipe book which is on sale each year.
Some are purely decorative!
After much deliberation I chose this Strawberry Crown and fancy making these ‘favourite pumpkin muffins’ with it!
Slindon Pottery is just along the road and various pumpkin-themed pottery items are for sale too including badges, mugs and candle holders.
When to visit the Slindon pumpkin display
If this has inspired you to visit then the display will be there until early November. Please park carefully as it’s a very busy road at weekends and during half term, and bollards show which sections to avoid. We went on a weekday afternoon and had no problem finding a space. It’s completely free to go along and take a look.
Pumpkin Recipes
If you live further afield but fancy cooking something autumnal then my favourite food website, Pinch Of Yum, has some fabulous pumpkin-based recipes incuding muffins, pasta and chilli!
My lovely friend Jo has a warming pumpkin soup recipe on her blog which sounds delicious which you can read about here.
If you fancy trying spaghetti with a creamy pumpkin sauce then check out this recipe from Jen Reviews, it looks amazing!
Do you have any idiot-proof pumpkin carving tips? Please comment below as I’m a novice and would love to produce something special this year!
Visit the Slindon area
If you want to visit the Slindon pumpkin display and don’t live nearby then you can check out Booking.com for local deals.
More things to do in Sussex
You may also enjoy reading these posts about the local area :
- Sussex Treasure Hunts
- Aerial photos of Chichester and Bognor Regis
- Chichester Festival of Flowers
- Secrets of Brighton’s West Pier
- Things to do in Bognor Regis
This looks amazing. I’d love to see it.
It’s incredible, really unique!
We always go, my nanny used to know a chap who worked for the growers, they always get such a crowd, I think it’s become a tradition for so many locals!
It’s a lovely place isn’t it? Hope you enjoy this year’s display!