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The Secret Forest

Tadcaster, United Kingdom•4.7(24)•Country Park, Playground

Explore an enchanting woodland trail filled with fairy doors, magical hideaways, and interactive discoveries designed for young adventurers aged 2-10.

The Secret Forest is a whimsical woodland trail nestled within the grounds of Hazlewood Castle, offering families an immersive outdoor experience where imagination comes to life. Young explorers encounter playful hideaways, mystical characters including dragons and witches, fairy doors, bogglin houses, and musical instruments scattered throughout the forest. The trail is thoughtfully designed with clear signposting and a map to guide visitors, making it accessible and engaging for children as young as two years old. Visitors can expect approximately 1.5 hours of exploration, though the experience can be extended by those who wish to linger. The woodland setting provides a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere for adults while children discover interactive elements at every turn. The venue is pushchair-friendly, making it suitable for families with younger children. Amenities include the Broomstick Cafe serving refreshments and light meals, clean toilets, and a disabled/baby change unit. The Secret Forest operates seasonally, open weekends from April through September, with extended summer holiday hours. Booking is required, and the venue caters to families seeking a screen-free adventure that encourages outdoor play, discovery, and imaginative engagement in a natural woodland setting.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 16:00
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:00
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Book in advance

Recommended ages

2 years – 10 years

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Broomstick Cafe

Offers a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks

Hours: 10:00-16:00 during seasonal opening (weekends June-September, summer holidays)

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Google Reviews

4.7(24 reviews)
L
Laurie Kutarski

Laurie Kutarski

3 months ago

Superb day out with a little one. We went on a slightly cold and drizzley day, still had plenty here to keep us and the two year old occupied. Really well thought out and signposted, and great fun for us too. Strongly recommended, we'll be going back!

R
Ryszard Szumski

Ryszard Szumski

a year ago

What a fantastic, magical place to visit. The kids thoroughly enjoyed it and so did l. They have thought of everything and it gave the kids excitement, fun and adventure. Well worth the travel and the price was brilliant. I'd recommend this for children 4 years to 9 years definitely. One let down was the Portaloos that were a bit smelly and no running water or paper towels at the sinks to wash your hands. Apart from that excellent value for money.

A
Anita Riegler

Anita Riegler

a year ago

We visited the Secret Forest with our two children (6 and 4 years old), and overall, it was a great experience. The kids really enjoyed it! There are food and drink options available, as well as toilets, which is very handy for families. The path isn’t the best for wheelchairs or buggies in my opinion, although the whole area is step-free. A few improvements could make it even more magical—like more interactive features for the kids, benches along the trail to rest, and some mystical background music. Also, we’d love to see or hear some fairies and goblins along the way! That would really bring the forest to life and spark the children’s imagination even more.

G
Grace Feeney

Grace Feeney

2 years ago

Amazing morning out at this newly opened magical forest. We went with 3 toddlers and it was perfect for them. They loved all the interactive stuff, things hanging up high and cute fairy homes etc. We were there for almost 3 hours (little legs!) and had a snack at the cafe at the end. The kids also loved the little play area and the walk to and from the carpark is a lovely woodland walk. A huge amount of effort and passion has been put into this by the two men who have set it up in partnership with the castle. So much thought has been put into all the details, it must have taken months to build! Well worth the money! Highly recommend! Very good for children under 8.

N
Nursemel

Nursemel

2 years ago

Came for the opening day and was So lucky with the weather. A lovely peaceful walk through the forest discovering fairy doors, bogglin houses, musical instruments, witches house and dragons. If you listen carefully you may hear the fairy’s!. Loved the wildlife area too. Easy to follow the map around the forest and things to find along the way. Lovely broomstick cafe where we enjoyed some sandwiches, sausage rolls and coffee. Toilets are at the front and a disabled/ baby change unit too. The walk took about 1 and half hours but could take longer. We had a great day and let our imagination take over. We will be back .

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Secret Forest

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Secret Forest

Is The Secret Forest free to visit?

The Secret Forest is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is The Secret Forest suitable for?

The Secret Forest is best for children aged 2 to 10.

Is The Secret Forest dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Secret Forest.

Is there parking at The Secret Forest?

Yes, The Secret Forest has on-site parking.

Is there food at The Secret Forest?

Yes — Broomstick Cafe is on site at The Secret Forest. Offers a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks

Is The Secret Forest pushchair-friendly?

Yes, The Secret Forest is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at The Secret Forest?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Secret Forest.

How do I get to The Secret Forest by public transport?

The Secret Forest isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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