- Index
- Forbidden Corner
Forbidden Corner
The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. A tourist attraction unlike anywhere that you have been before, ideal for the adventurers & those young at heart!
About Forbidden Corner
Step Into a World of Surprises
When you enter The Forbidden Corner, you’re stepping straight into one of the most delightfully eccentric attractions in the Yorkshire Dales. Hidden within the grounds of Tupgill Park, this imaginative four‑acre labyrinth is packed with twisting tunnels, curious sculptures, secret chambers and unexpected moments that encourage you to explore, laugh and let your curiosity lead the way.
This isn’t a place where you follow a map — it’s a place where you follow your instincts. Every corner holds something new, and every turn invites you deeper into a world where nothing is quite what it seems.
Your Adventure Begins
Originally built as a private folly and subsequently opened to the public, choose your booking slot online and, from the moment you arrive and step through the entrance, you’re invited to wander freely and discover the attraction in your own style. You might find yourself squeezing through hidden doorways, navigating underground passages, hopping across stepping stones or choosing between mysterious paths that seem to appear out of nowhere.
There’s no right or wrong way to explore — you decide where to go, what to investigate and how lost you’re willing to get.
A Place Like Nowhere Else
You’ll explore a unique maze of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises woven through beautifully landscaped gardens in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s a tourist attraction unlike anywhere you’ve been before — perfect for adventurers, puzzle‑lovers and anyone who’s young at heart.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or simply looking for something wonderfully different, The Forbidden Corner promises a day filled with laughter, discovery and unforgettable moments.
Bring your sense of fun, expect the unpredictable and ignite your imagination.
“A brilliant and wonderfully odd day out” — TripAdvisor
Please book online before your visit – Once we reach maximum occupancy we cannot accept walk-ins, but it’s really easy to book and our café and restaurant are open to all.
Tickets are limited and sold strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. If our website shows no availability or limited space, then we are fully booked for that time slot.
Opening times
April to October 31st 2026
Weekdays / Saturdays open from 12 pm
Sundays / Bank Holidays open from 10 am
November 1st – December 20th 2026
Open Saturdays and Sundays only
On quiet days, the gardens may shut early; however, never earlier than 2.5 hours after our last admission time slot.
For more information about the attraction, please visit the FAQs page on our website.
A range of food & drink options for everyone
Whether you’re spending the whole day exploring The Forbidden Corner or simply stopping by for something delicious, our cafés and restaurants on the estate are open to everyone, so you can enjoy them with or without entering the attraction.
Within the gardens itself, The Tower offers hickory‑smoked hot dogs, soft‑serve ice cream and a choice of hot or cold drinks. You’ll also find freshly made doughnuts with dipping sauces — a favourite treat for many visitors
The Corner Café offers drinks, snacks and light meals in a friendly setting just beside the attraction. It’s ideal if you want a quick bite before or after your adventure — or even if you’re simply passing through the estate and fancy a coffee stop. A variety of quick bites, from pies and sandwiches to wraps you can take away. If you’d prefer something hot, you can order cooked dishes straight from the kitchen, including burgers with chips, Stuffed Yorkshire pudding plates and baked jacket potatoes. Opens 11:30am Mon-Sat and 10am Sundays
The White Goose Pizza Company serves freshly made Neapolitan style pizzas in a welcoming, family‑friendly space. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, it’s a great choice for lunch or dinner, or for refuelling after a visit to our maze.
The Saddle Room Restaurant offers a full bar menu and beautifully prepared dishes in a stylish setting. A more refined dining experience, The Saddle Room is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or if you just want a memorable meal in the Dales. You can enjoy the restaurant entirely independently of the attraction.
The Gift Shop
Before you head home, make time for the Forbidden Corner Gift Shop. You’ll find a huge selection of traditional and unusual gifts, keepsakes and quirky mementos inspired by your wonderfully strange day out. Whether you want something playful, something classic or something completely unexpected, you’ll find it here.
Stay With Us
If you’d like to extend your adventure, you can stay overnight at The Saddle Room’s accommodation, located just a short walk from The Forbidden Corner. Choose from cosy rooms, luxury suites or charming cottages — perfect for couples, families or groups wanting to enjoy the Dales at a slower pace.
Bring your group for an unforgettable day out
The Forbidden Corner is a fantastic choice for group outings. Whether you’re organising a family gathering, a school trip, a club visit or a team day, group bookings are welcomed and can be arranged directly. You’ll enjoy a shared experience full of laughter, surprises and memorable moments.
Schools and educational groups can take advantage of dedicated learning packs designed to help students explore, observe and think creatively. To book an educational visit, please call 01969 640638.
There’s always something going on…
Throughout the year, The Forbidden Corner hosts seasonal themes and special events that add even more magic to your visit. From playful summer activities to atmospheric autumn surprises and festive winter touches, there’s always something new happening on site. Click on our web link to find out more.
Book your own special event or meeting with us
If you are planning a wedding, celebration, conference, meeting, team-building event or shooting party, click the venue link below to discover how this unique setting can host your special occasion.
Opening hours
-
Monday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Tuesday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Wednesday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Thursday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Friday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Saturday
12:00 - 18:00
-
Sunday
10:00 - 18:00
Frequently asked questions
- Can I pay at the door? Why do I have to pre-book?
We recommend booking in advance to guarantee your entry. Our timed booking slots help us manage visitor numbers, comply with our planning requirements, and ensure we don’t exceed our maximum capacity, making your visit as enjoyable as possible.
If we have availability, we’re happy to welcome walk-in visitors on the day. However, if we’ve reached capacity, we won’t be able to admit additional guests, so booking ahead is the best way to avoid disappointment.
- Are the gardens suitable for pushchairs/wheelchairs?
There is only minimal access for wheelchairs and pushchairs in the gardens. We recommend bringing a carrier for very small children. Unfortunately, large parts of the attraction are not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
There are minimal areas that are suitable due to the nature of the attraction. Areas to avoid include our underground passageways and stepping stones. Pathways are a combination of gravel and flagged paths.
We are sorry if we can not accommodate you inside the attraction. We have many acres of land surrounding us, featuring paths through the woods, two lakes, and viewing points that are all free. Our Café is entirely wheelchair accessible.
- What age range does The Forbidden Corner suit?
The Forbidden Corner is suitable for all age ranges, from children to adults. Please be aware that some sections may be frightening to younger children, but can be avoided. If you are in doubt or have concerns, please get in touch with our team by phone to verify before visiting. Alternatively, our staff are available at the admissions desk and patrolling the gardens, and they will be more than happy to assist.
- How long does a visit usually last?
A visit to The Forbidden Corner typically lasts around 2.5 hours, but first-time visitors are advised to allow themselves more time. You may go in and out of the gardens as many times as you like within your booked date, but visitors must vacate the gardens before closing time.
- Are dogs allowed in the gardens?
Sorry, dogs are not permitted within our attraction, except for guide or assistance dogs.
In line with 'The Equality and Human Rights Commission' assistance dogs:
- Will not wander freely around the premises
- Will sit or lie quietly on the floor next to its owner and are trained to go to the toilet on command, and so are unlikely to foul in a public place
- Are instantly recognisable by the harness or identifying dog jacket they wear
Facilities
- Dogs not accepted (except guide dogs)
- gift shop
- Booking Essential
- On-site catering
- Groups welcomed
- picnic area
- Children's play area
- Coach Parking
Sustainability Criteria
Nearby businesses
The Wensleydale Hotel
Enjoy a stay at The Wensleydale Hotel, a Grade II listed boutique hotel in… Enjoy a stay at The Wensleydale Hotel, a Grade II listed boutique hotel in the heart of Middleham, North Yorkshire. Known for its cobbled charm and…
The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar
The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar in Middleham offers relaxed dining and… The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar in Middleham offers relaxed dining and drinks, with seasonal menus, Sunday lunch and our Stable Menu of bar dishes,…
Leyburn Market
Leyburn Market is a long-standing tradition that reflects the character… Leyburn Market is a long-standing tradition that reflects the character and charm of this Wensleydale community.
Bolton Castle Tea Room
Bolton Castle Tea Room, within one of the country’s best preserved… Bolton Castle Tea Room, within one of the country’s best preserved Medieval castles, is a go-to place for refuelling and relaxing with a range of…