If you’re looking for a cozy fall escape near the GTA, Chudleigh’s Farm in Milton is your go-to destination. Apple picking near Toronto has never been easier or more fun, and this beloved family farm offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and seasonal tradition. With pick your own apples options, scenic tractor rides, friendly farm animals, exciting slides, and seasonal delights, this place captures all the charm and beauty of autumn in Ontario. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date, or a fun day with friends, here’s a closer look at what makes Chudleigh’s Farm a must-visit destination in fall, plus essential tips for making your visit smooth and memorable.
A Bit of History & What to Expect
Chudleigh’s began as a humble family apple orchard and opened its gates to the public in 1967 as a “pick your own” farm, giving visitors the chance to experience farm life firsthand. Over the decades, it evolved into a full-fledged entertainment farm, successfully blending traditional agritourism with modern family-friendly attractions. What started as a simple orchard has grown into one of the most popular destinations for fall activities in Ontario.
Today, Chudleigh’s Farm sits on an impressive 60 acres of productive orchard land with over 47,500 apple trees spanning multiple varieties. The farm has carefully preserved its agricultural roots while adding entertainment value for visitors of all ages. Their seasonal offerings include apple picking near Toronto, a sprawling pumpkin patch perfect for Instagram photos, scenic wagon rides through the orchards, a well-designed children’s play area, interactive farm animal encounters, peaceful nature trails, thrilling slides, and much more. This combination of authentic farming and recreational activities makes it one of the premier fall activities in Ontario for both locals and tourists. If you’re looking for more autumn experiences, explore other farms to visit in Ontario during fall or visit Snyder’s Family Farm for another memorable day trip.
Apple Picking & Orchard Fun
Fall is undoubtedly the signature season at Chudleigh’s Farm. Starting in mid-August, early apple varieties become available for eager visitors, though the peak picking season runs through September and October when the majority of varieties ripen to perfection. Because apple availability depends heavily on weather patterns and crop conditions, it’s always a good idea to check the farm’s website or social media pages before you go to see which varieties are ready for harvest.
The farm grows more than 18 different apple varieties, each with unique flavors and characteristics ideal for eating fresh, baking pies and crisps, or making homemade cider and applesauce. Popular varieties include Honeycrisp, Gala, McIntosh, Cortland, and Empire. Pick your own apples during your visit and experience the satisfaction of harvesting fruit directly from the tree—admission and a 3-hour timed entry ticket are required (no walk-ins allowed to manage crowd levels). You’ll pay for the apples you pick by weight, making it affordable and flexible for families of all sizes.
The apple picking near Toronto experience at Chudleigh’s is designed to be accessible and enjoyable. Wide orchard rows make navigation easy with strollers and wagons, and farm staff are available to answer questions and provide picking tips for first-time visitors.
Attractions Beyond Apple Picking
Chudleigh’s Farm doesn’t rely solely on its impressive orchard to draw visitors year after year; it’s packed with additional activities and attractions designed to keep families entertained for hours:
- Tractor wagon rides through the picturesque orchard (approximately 15 minutes) with convenient drop-offs for apple picking. These rides offer scenic views and a relaxing way to explore the property.
- Farm animal area & petting yard featuring friendly goats, pigs, alpacas, ducks, chickens, rabbits, and more. Kids love the hands-on experience of interacting with farm animals in a safe, supervised environment.
- A sprawling play area equipped with large slides, climbing towers, hay bale jumps, sand pits, rope swings, and obstacle courses that challenge and delight children of all ages.
- Nature trails winding through the farm environment, perfect for quiet walks, bird watching, or simply enjoying the fall foliage and fresh country air.
- Pumpkin patch in the fall season, with pumpkins grown right among the rows of the orchard. Choose your perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating.
- Live music & seasonal events (primarily in summer and fall) that complement your farm visit with local performers and special themed weekends.
- On-site bakery, café, farm market, Silo Bar, and restaurant offering delicious meals, fresh-baked apple pies, apple cider donuts, seasonal treats, and locally sourced products. Don’t leave without trying their famous apple fritters!
Tips for Visiting Chudleigh’s in Fall
- Buy tickets online in advance — the farm operates on timed entry, and there are no gate sales on busy weekends.
- Arrive early in your designated time slot so you can maximize your three-hour visit and avoid crowds at popular attractions.
- Parking is free and plentiful in designated lots near the entrance.
- Dogs are welcome on leash throughout most of the property, but not permitted in the animal area, on tractor rides, or inside the restaurant.
- The farm is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though some orchard terrain may be uneven or grassy.
- Only food purchased on-site is allowed inside the main farm area (outside food and beverages are not permitted).
- Bring coins or small cash to purchase animal feed dispensers (goats especially love visitors who bring snacks!).
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for outdoor terrain.
- Be sure to check apple availability status before you go; some days certain varieties may not be available due to weather or crop conditions.
Why Chudleigh’s Makes a Great Fall Family Destination
- Wide variety of premium apples to sample and pick your own apples experience with expert guidance
- Abundance of kid-friendly attractions that go far beyond just apple picking near Toronto
- Convenient on-site food options, sweet treats, and a well-stocked bakery featuring apple-based specialties
- Scenic farm setting nestled in the beautiful Milton/Halton Hills countryside
- A perfect combination of agricultural education, active recreation, and seasonal charm
- Ideal for creating lasting family memories and experiencing authentic fall activities in Ontario
- Great value for money with multiple activities included in admission
If you’re searching for an authentic fall farm experience close to home, Chudleigh’s Farm is a top pick for apple picking near Toronto and seasonal fun. Just be sure to plan ahead, book your timed entry tickets online, check apple availability, and set realistic expectations based on your time slot. This beloved Ontario destination delivers the quintessential autumn experience that families return to year after year.
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