The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within a four-acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park and the Yorkshire Dales. A tourist visitor attraction unlike anywhere that you have been before, ideal for adventurers and those young at heart!

The temple of the underworld, the eye of the needle, a huge pyramid made of translucent glass, paths and passages that lead nowhere, extraordinary statues – at every turn there are decisions to make and tricks to avoid. This is a day out with a difference which will challenge and delight adults and children of all ages.

The brainchild of Mr. C.R. Armstrong CMG O.B.E, the Forbidden Corner was originally built as a private folly but due to public demand was subsequently opened to the public.

Book now and come and see for yourself how this fantastic attraction has developed into the Strangest Place in the World!

A Brief History

The Forbidden Corner originally started as small wood of Fir trees initially planted as a wind break to the stables at Tupgill Park, with hundreds of trees being planted in 1979. Ten years later in 1989, Colin Armstrong and his good friend Malcolm Tempest decided that a small tower in the western corner needed to be created to enjoy the view down the Coverdale valley.

The decision to open The Forbidden Corner to the public was made. Once the builders had moved out, the gardening started and the hedging for the maze was planted. The paths were improved by hand due to no room for heavy machinery. The Face Tower was built to welcome guests to the folly.

On 23rd July 1994, The Forbidden Corner was officially opened to the public. Around 100 people came on the opening day. Over time, a building was converted to a ticket office, cafe and gift shop to welcome the excited visitors.

Hidden Gems and Interesting Facts

We also provide children’s parties in our wooden Party Hut for only £25 per child, find out more information on our website and turn your visit into a celebration

The Forbidden Corner makes up part of Tupgill Park Estate, next door to The Saddle Room restaurant providing good quality locally sourced grand honest food. Book a table and finish of your fun filled day with a full belly!

What We Offer Our Visitors:

The Forbidden Corner is a unique day out like never before suitable for all ages. You will find statues, water features, beautiful gardens and an underground world to explore on your visit!

Why Choose Us for Your Next Day Out in Yorkshire:

Our attraction is unlike anywhere else. Be mesmerized by a glass pyramid, confused by doors that lead to nowhere and taken away by our beautiful views of the rural Yorkshire Dales!

Activities, Tours, Exhibits & Events:

Add even more to your day out and complete our brass rubbings activity around the attraction, alternatively use our app to complete the quest and receive a wizards certificate!

Family Friendly Activities & Activities For Kids

Our entire attraction is family friendly. We have a children’s play area on site as well as the main attraction itself.

Accreditation and Awards:

Winner of The White rose awards 2015 for Large Visitor Attraction

Going Places Family attraction of the year overall winner 2009/2010

Going Places Family Attraction of the year 2013/2014

Britain In Bloom 2018 Yorkshire Rose Tourist Attraction Gold award

Opening Hours

March 23rd - October 31st 2024

Weekdays / Saturdays open from 12pm

Sundays / Bank Holidays open from 10am

November 2nd - December 22nd 2024

Open Saturdays and Sundays only

Seasonal Experiences

For 2024 we have held an Easter event that will return for 2025, as well as planning a Halloween Event for October.

Group Sizes Catered For:

We limit the number of visitors per hour to comply with planning regulations. However, for individuals booking tickets there is no limit maximum.

Pricing Information:

• Adults: £17.60
• Senior Citizens (age 60+): £16.50
• Children aged 4 – 15: £15.60
• Children under 4 enter for free.
• Family (2 adults + 2 children): £60.00
• Disability Ticket - £11.60

These tickets are limited and sold strictly on a first come first served basis. If our website is showing no availability or limited spaces then we are full for that time slot.

The educational rate is £11.60 each for children, teachers and helpers (in a 1:6 ratio) and is only available during term time. Outside of term time our standard group rate applies.

Facilities:

We have multiple food options on site including our Corner Café serving sandwiches, pizzas, pies and pasties and well as hot food such as burgers and jacket potatoes. The Tower Hut serving locally sourced Hickory hot dogs, ice creams, snacks and hot and cold drinks. The Potting Shed is currently undergoing development work and is planned to reopen in Summer 2024.

• We have plenty of toilets across our site with baby changing facilities as well.
• Free Parking is available to cars and coaches as well as disabled parking.
• Our shop stocks lots of unusual and unique gifts to remind you of your visit.

Accessibility and Disabled Facilities:

We have toilet facilities adjacent to the car and coach parking bays, which are disabled accessible. In our main visitor centre, there are toilets at the entrance and also in our café. There are toilets at the further part of the attraction and near the play area.

Our attraction does involve lots of walking and there are quite a few steps and narrow passageways. There are benches placed throughout the grounds that can provide a rest stop. We do advise to leave push chairs in the car where possible to experience the attraction to the fullest.

Our café and shop are both disabled, wheel chair and push chair accessible.

Some areas are underground and people suffering from claustrophobia, angina or are susceptible to panic attacks may find parts unsuitable.