Minotaur Maze at Kielder Castle: A Contemporary Labyrinth of Stone and Glass
Discover the Minotaur Maze at Kielder Castle — a captivating labyrinth of basalt stone and glass blending art, nature, and playful exploration.
The Minotaur Maze, located at Kielder Castle in Northumberland, is a unique contemporary maze constructed from local basalt stone and recycled glass. Designed by artist Shona Kitchen and architect Nick Coombe, it offers visitors an intriguing blend of art, architecture, and playful challenge. The maze features rugged walls, stairways for elevated views, and culminates in a shimmering glass room at its center, inviting contemplation and discovery for all ages.
A brief summary to Minotaur Maze
- Hexham, Kielder, GB
- +441434220616
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Allow about 30 minutes to fully explore the maze and reach the central glass room.
- Use the Duchess trail for wheelchair access to the maze.
- Visit during daylight hours for the best experience, as the maze is open from dawn to dusk.
- Combine your visit with nearby Kielder Castle and other art installations in the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre typically takes 30 to 45 minutes from Hexham via the A68. Parking is available at the visitor centre for a fee of around £6.50 per day. Note that the forest drive toll road operates seasonally with a £5 charge. The roads are suitable for standard vehicles but some forest roads are unsurfaced and better suited to 4x4s.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Hexham to Kielder village, with travel times around 60 to 90 minutes depending on the route. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. From Kielder village, a taxi or a 3 km walk on forest trails leads to the visitor centre and maze.
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Walking
For active visitors staying nearby, walking to the Minotaur Maze from Kielder village or the visitor centre is a pleasant option. Trails vary from easy to moderate terrain, with paths suitable for families and wheelchair users via the Duchess trail. Walking times range from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on your starting point.
Minotaur Maze location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Minotaur Maze
Artistic Vision and Design Innovation
The Minotaur Maze is a striking example of contemporary public art and architectural design, created by multidisciplinary artist Shona Kitchen and architect Nick Coombe in 2006. The maze’s structure employs gabions filled with local Whinstone basalt, a volcanic rock whose color shifts with moisture, combined with recycled industrial glass to create a robust yet visually compelling environment. This fusion of materials evokes a rugged, almost fortress-like presence that contrasts with the delicate, glittering glass room at the maze’s heart, symbolizing a quiet sanctuary and a goal for visitors to reach.Engaging Maze Experience
Visitors navigate a complex network of stone walls and corridors, encountering dead ends and stairways that provide elevated perspectives to strategize routes or greet fellow maze-goers. The walls are tall enough to prevent easy glimpses over them, enhancing the challenge and immersion. The maze is designed to be approachable for all ages and abilities, with wheelchair access available via the Duchess trail, ensuring inclusivity in this interactive experience.Setting Within Kielder Castle Grounds
Situated just below the historic Kielder Castle, the maze complements the castle’s dramatic setting within the expansive Kielder Forest. The maze is part of the Kielder Art & Architecture programme, surrounded by other contemporary installations that enrich the cultural landscape. Its location opposite the Anglers Arms and near the Kielder Castle Visitor Centre makes it a focal point for visitors exploring the forest’s artistic and natural attractions.Connection to Nature and Local Heritage
The use of local Whinstone basalt roots the maze in the geology and heritage of Northumberland, while the recycled glass reflects a commitment to sustainable materials. The maze’s design, inspired by the mythological Minotaur labyrinth, invites reflection on ancient stories within a modern context, linking natural landscape, cultural history, and contemporary creativity.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The Minotaur Maze is open daily from dawn until dusk, free to explore as part of the Kielder Castle grounds. Nearby amenities include parking, restrooms, and food options at the Street Diner within the visitor centre. The maze’s easy grade and accessible pathways make it suitable for families, solo visitors, and groups seeking a unique outdoor art experience.Recognitions and Legacy
Since its opening, the Minotaur Maze has received recognition including RIBA and Civic Trust Awards, highlighting its architectural and cultural significance. It remains a celebrated feature of Kielder Forest, drawing visitors to engage with its challenging layout and contemplative spaces amidst one of England’s largest forested areas.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
