The unique mystery provided by mazes has fascinated mankind since the ancient civilization of the Greeks and Romans.

Kent boasts a number of permanent mazes inspired by traditions of the past, but the summer months between July and September bring out the widest variety of maize and grass mazes on offer, some of which are new for this year.

Here’s our pick of the best mazes, included within the venues’ standard entry prices.

Haguelands Village

This animal and farm attraction on ROMNEY MARSH has a fresh theme for the maize maze based on its alpacas. The Nosey Pacas maze features three miles of paths. Climbing platforms built within the maze are not just for fun but allow intrepid young explorers to gain elevation to work out where they are and what is still to find. Haguelands Village is open every day from 10am to 5pm. Entry costs £7 for adults, £6 for kids or £20 for a family of four. Visit www.haguelandsvillage.co.uk or call 01303 875640

Looking ahead, Haguelands Village holds atmospheric torch-lit maze events every Saturday night throughout September, which must be pre-booked.

Hever Castle

There are not one but two types of maze on offer at this historic castle near EDENBRIDGE. The yew maze was created by American owner William Waldorf Astor in 1906. It measures 80ft x 80ft, with almost a quarter of a mile of pathways enclosed within hedges of eight feet high. Next, don’t forget to bring your towel so you can enjoy cooling down in the water maze. Situated on Sixteen Acre Island, the maze consists of stepping stone walkways sitting over water. At intervals, the stones tilt and hidden water jets spring into action to soak those who dare. The aim is to reach the stone grotto in the centre without getting wet. The castle gardens open daily at 10.30am until 6pm. Castle and garden entry is £15.50 for adults, £8.70 for children and £39.70 for families of four. Visit www.hevercastle.co.uk or call 01732 865224.

Leeds Castle

The yew maze at the castle near MAIDSTONE was created in 1987 using 2,400 trees. It is set in a square, and yet, when seen from the mound or the air, the pattern is circular. This is unique to Leeds Castle and adds to the difficulty in solving it. The pattern, although resembling in part the Cretan seven ring labyrinth, was designed using a computer programme, which allowed the designers to incorporate two symbols which represent Leeds Castle: a crown and a chalice. The grotto and tunnel at the exit are the prize for solving the maze. Annual tickets cost £24 for adults and £16 for children. Under fours go free. Annual tickets are valid for 12 months. Visit www.leeds-castle.com or call 01622 765400.

Mount Ephraim Gardens

The grass miz-maze at these gardens near FAVERSHAM was planted in 2004 on the slopes of a former vineyard. Medieval miz-mazes were nine circuit labyrinths of raised turf paths and are thought to have been used by monks for exercise and meditation. The interpretation at Mount Ephraim features ornamental grasses, herbaceous perennials and dramatic wildflowers are alive with pollinating insects and wildlife. Mount Ephraim Gardens are open on Wednesdays to Sundays from 11am until 5pm. Entry is £6 for adults and £2.50 for children.

Penshurt Place and Gardens

The maize maze at this historic house near TONBRIDGE returns with a new design and celebratory First World War theme for 2014. Collect a game card and step inside the field of maize to find the secret hidden medals as you weave your way around the exciting new design. Penshurst also boasts a poppy mini maze for younger children, offering a shorter 15-minute journey. Open from 10.30am to 6pm, entry is £6 for children, £8 for adults and £25 for a family of four. Visit www.penshurstplace.com or call 01892 870307.

Stanhill Farm

This farm near DARTFORD is opening its Giant Strawberry Maze for the first time ever this weekend. Young visitors can challenge themselves with the foodie quiz as they navigate the maze, and pick strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants, runner beans and sweetcorn.
It opens on Saturday, July 19 and then daily throughout the summer from 10am to 6pm.
Entry is £6 for adults, £5 for children, and £20 for families of four. Visit stanhillfarm@googlemail.com or call 01322 669711.