If you love mazes, Saffron Walden Turf Maze is a must-visit. This amazing maze sits on the common land of Saffron Walden, Essex, and it’s one of the most special turf mazes in the world . What makes it stand out? It’s not just a maze for fun – it’s a piece of living history wrapped in grass and chalk.
The Saffron Walden Turf Maze has a mysterious past. People think it started in the medieval period, though the first written record of it is from 1699 . Back then, the town paid to have the maze re-cut, showing how important it was even centuries ago. Over time, the maze was neglected and restored many times. In 1911, workers laid bricks under the path to protect it, and in the 1970s, they fixed broken bricks and cemented them to make a 12-centimeter-wide path . Today, the town council still looks after this precious maze .
The maze’s design and materials are simple but brilliant. It’s a circular turf maze, about 100 feet across – that’s one of the largest turf mazes anywhere . The path is cut into the grass, and trenches are filled with chalk to make the route easy to see . This contrast between green turf and white chalk makes the maze’s twists and loops clear, even from above. It follows a “seven-circuit” pattern, similar to old labyrinths from different cultures . Unlike hedge mazes, this turf maze uses the land itself as its main material, which is why it feels so connected to the village around it .
Walking the Saffron Walden Turf Maze is an experience like no other. The path stretches for about 1.5 km of twisty fun . Some people walk it for joy – kids love running around and burning energy, while adults enjoy the challenge . Others feel its spiritual side. Many call it a sacred site, even a “temple to the mother goddess” . Walking to the central mound can feel like a journey of reflection. One visitor said getting lost in the maze helped them find their inner self .
The maze is open 24/7, 365 days a year – and it’s free . For the best visit, go on a weekday to avoid crowds . Wear comfortable shoes, because you’ll do lots of walking . After the maze, you can explore nearby spots like Bridge End Gardens, which has another lovely hedge maze . It’s no wonder Saffron Walden is called the UK’s “maze town” – it has four permanent public mazes, and this turf maze is the star .
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