The Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water
Discover the charm and challenge of The Dragonfly Maze, a family-friendly puzzle adventure nestled in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Dragonfly Maze is a charming and engaging yew hedge maze located in Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham. This family-friendly attraction combines traditional maze navigation with puzzle-solving, as visitors search for clues leading to the golden dragonfly at its center. Suitable for all ages, it offers a delightful mix of adventure, challenge, and light-hearted fun, set in a well-maintained and scenic environment.
A brief summary to The Dragonfly Maze
- Cheltenham, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down clues and pictures, as they help solve the maze’s puzzles.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass and uneven paths within the maze.
- Consider visiting early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
- Dogs are welcome on leads, so you can bring your pet along for the adventure.
- Be prepared for midges in warmer months near the yew hedges; insect repellent can enhance comfort.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Cheltenham to Bourton-on-the-Water, which runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. The journey takes around 45-60 minutes. From the bus stop, the maze is a 15-minute walk through the village. Tickets cost about £5-£8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Cheltenham, the maze is approximately 20 km and takes about 30 minutes via the A40. Limited parking is available near the village center, with some spaces paid. Parking fees range from £1 to £3 per hour.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cheltenham to Bourton-on-the-Water takes roughly 30 minutes and costs between £30-£40. This option offers direct and flexible travel but may have limited availability during peak times.
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Walking
For those staying within Bourton-on-the-Water, the maze is accessible by foot via well-maintained village paths. Walking times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your location, with flat terrain suitable for most visitors.
The Dragonfly Maze location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about The Dragonfly Maze
A Unique Maze Experience Blending Puzzle and Adventure
The Dragonfly Maze stands out from typical hedge mazes by integrating an interactive puzzle element into the classic maze format. Visitors navigate through carefully trimmed yew hedges, following a series of cleverly designed clues and riddles that guide them toward the maze’s heart, where the golden dragonfly awaits discovery. This blend of maze and escape-room style challenge keeps participants engaged and entertained, making it a memorable outing for families, couples, and groups alike.Setting and Atmosphere in the Cotswolds
Nestled in the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, the maze is surrounded by the quintessential charm of the Cotswolds, with its rolling hills and quaint architecture. The maze itself is compact but thoughtfully maintained, offering a clean, litter-free environment that enhances the visitor experience. The dense yew hedges create a tranquil and immersive atmosphere, punctuated by the occasional sounds of local wildlife and the rustling of leaves, inviting a peaceful yet stimulating exploration.Engaging for All Ages and Interests
The Dragonfly Maze is designed to be accessible and fun for a wide range of visitors. Children enjoy the tactile experience of wandering through the hedges and solving clues, while adults appreciate the cleverness of the puzzles and the nostalgic joy of maze navigation. The challenge level varies, with some clues straightforward and others more intricate, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving. The maze welcomes dogs on leads, adding to its appeal as a family-friendly destination.Staff and Visitor Interaction
Visitors often remark on the warm and theatrical welcome provided by the staff, who enhance the experience with friendly engagement and helpful hints. This personal touch adds character and charm, making the visit feel special and inviting. The staff’s enthusiasm and attentiveness contribute to the maze’s reputation as a well-run and enjoyable attraction.Duration and Practical Details
Most visitors spend around 30 to 40 minutes completing the maze, though this can vary depending on the group’s pace and puzzle-solving skills. The maze operates daily from 10am to 4pm, providing ample opportunity to fit a visit into a day of exploring Bourton-on-the-Water and its surroundings. Entry is affordably priced, making it an excellent value activity for locals and tourists alike.Complementary Attractions and Local Appeal
Located near other popular sites such as Birdland Park and Gardens, The Dragonfly Maze offers a perfect complement to a day of family-friendly exploration in the Cotswolds. Its unique combination of nature, challenge, and light-hearted fun makes it a standout attraction in the region, encouraging repeat visits and extended stays in the charming village.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly