Summer at Thorpe Farm is always special — long, sunny days, plenty of fresh country air, and activities for the whole family. And this year, there’s one attraction that’s guaranteed to get everyone smiling, laughing, and making unforgettable memories…
Our Maize Maze is officially open!
If you’re looking for a great family day out in the countryside, the Thorpe Farm Maize Maze is ready to welcome you. We’re open seven days a week, so you can come whenever it suits you — whether it’s a midweek adventure during the school holidays or a weekend escape with the whole family.
Here’s everything you need to know about our Maize Maze, plus some top tips to make the most of your visit.
What is the Maize Maze?
Every summer, we plant a huge field of maize right here at Thorpe Farm. Once the plants grow tall enough, we cut out twisting, turning pathways through the crop to create an exciting challenge for all ages. The result? A living, green maze that’s ready for you to explore.
This year’s maze is bigger and better than ever, with plenty of winding routes, fun dead ends, and a special trail to followas you go. It’s an adventure that’s part puzzle, part treasure hunt, and all about having a good time.
When Can You Visit?
We’re open 7 days a week — so there’s no need to wait for a specific event day. Just come along whenever you’re ready for some fresh-air fun.
Opening hours: 9am – 4pm (last entry at 3:30pm)
Price: £4.50 per person
How to pay: Simply pay at the Courtyard Café before heading out to the maze or book here in advance.
Whether you’re popping in for an hour or planning a full day out, the maize maze is perfect for families, couples, or even groups of friends who love a bit of friendly competition.
Fun Extras in the Field
The maize maze is just the start of the fun. When you’re out there, you’ll also find:
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A Bale Stack for Climbing – Let the kids scramble, climb, and jump to their heart’s content. It’s a great way for them to burn off some energy before or after tackling the maze.
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A Scenic Trail – Follow our special trail markers through the maize to add an extra layer of adventure. See if you can complete the challenge along the way.
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Animal Encounters – While you’re exploring, you’ll be able to spot our animals in the surrounding paddocks. Say hello to our friendly residents — they’re always happy to see visitors.
Why Families Love the Maize Maze
We’ve designed our maze to be fun for all ages, from toddlers who just enjoy running along the paths to parents who want to test their navigation skills.
Here’s why our visitors keep coming back year after year:
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Affordable Family Fun – At just £4.50 per person, it’s a budget-friendly day out.
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Something for Everyone – Whether you’re in it for the challenge or just the fresh air, you’ll leave with a smile.
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Perfect for Photos – The green maze walls, bale stack, and countryside views make for gorgeous family snapshots.
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Easy to Combine with Other Activities – With so much else to do at Thorpe Farm, you can easily make a full day of it.
Make a Day of It at Thorpe Farm
Your maize maze adventure is just the beginning. When you visit Thorpe Farm, you can enjoy so much more:
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Courtyard Café – Before or after the maze, pop into our Courtyard Café for coffee, cakes, light lunches, and homemade treats, our cafe is dog friendly
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Meet the Animals – Our paddocks are home to a range of friendly farm animals that love a wave from visitors.
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Garden Centre – Browse beautiful plants, garden accessories, and seasonal blooms.
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Soft Play – Keep the kids entertained whatever the weather in our indoor play area.
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Peel House Gifts, Interiors & Reclamation – Explore unique gifts, stylish home décor, and reclaimed treasures.
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Outdoor Play Area – Slides, swings, and space to run around in the sunshine.
It’s the perfect combination of activities for a family day out.
Special Offer – Free Hot Drink for Maze Adventurers!
We love seeing your pictures from the maize maze, so we’ve created a little thank-you treat for visitors this year.
Snap a picture in the maze, post it on Facebook or Instagram, and tag @thorpefarmcentre in your post or story. Then, show it to our friendly team in the Courtyard Café and enjoy a free hot drink on us.
It’s our way of saying thanks for helping spread the word about our summer fun.
Tips for Your Maize Maze Visit
To make the most of your time in the maze, here are a few helpful tips:
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Wear Comfortable Shoes – The paths are grassy and sometimes uneven, so trainers or sturdy sandals are best.
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Check the Weather – The maze is open rain or shine, but you might want wellies if it’s been wet.
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Bring Sun Cream & Hats – On sunny days, the maze offers limited shade.
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Keep Hydrated – You can grab drinks from the Courtyard Café before you head out.
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Take Your Time – There’s no rush to get out of the maze — the fun is in the exploring.
The Perfect Summer Tradition
There’s something magical about a maize maze in summer — the smell of the fresh green plants, the rustle of the leaves, and the laughter as you find (or lose) your way. It’s an activity that kids will talk about for weeks afterwards, and it’s just as much fun for grown-ups as it is for little ones.
Many families make our maize maze part of their summer traditions — visiting each year to see the new design and spend a day enjoying the countryside.
Plan Your Visit Today
The Thorpe Farm Maize Maze is only open for a limited time each year, so don’t miss your chance to experience it. Bring your family, invite your friends, and get ready for a day of outdoor fun.
Thorpe Farm, Greta Bridge, DL12 9TY
Open 7 days a week
£4.50 per person
Pay at the Courtyard Café or book online in advance
We can’t wait to see you this summer — and don’t forget, a free hot drink is waiting for you when you share your maze photos and tag us.
Have you seen us in the press?
Northern Farmer – read here
Darlington & Stockton Times – read here
This is Durham – read here
