Wing Maze: Ancient Turf Labyrinth of Rutland
Explore Wing Maze, a rare medieval turf labyrinth in Rutland, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and tranquil countryside charm.
Wing Maze is a rare medieval turf labyrinth located on the edge of the picturesque village of Wing in Rutland, England. Measuring approximately 14 meters in diameter, this unicursal labyrinth features a single grass path winding through 11 circuits to the center. Believed to date back to medieval times, it is one of only eight surviving turf mazes in England and is protected as an ancient monument. The maze’s design echoes the Chartres Cathedral pattern and is linked to spiritual penance traditions.
A brief summary to Wing Maze
- 7 Glaston Rd, Oakham, Wing, LE15 8RU, GB
- +441572722577
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the maze’s intricate grass pathways and surrounding village scenery.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass and uneven terrain.
- Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Wing village and the Church of St Peter and St Paul for a fuller historical experience.
- Respect the site’s protected status by staying on the path and avoiding damage to the turf.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Oakham to Wing village, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Services may be infrequent, so check schedules in advance. The fare typically ranges from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Oakham to Wing Maze takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Limited roadside parking is available near Glaston Road. Parking is free but spaces are limited, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
From central Wing village, the maze is a 5-10 minute walk over flat, grassy terrain. The path is accessible but may be uneven in places, so suitable footwear is advised.
Wing Maze location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Wing Maze
Historic Origins and Significance
Wing Maze is a rare surviving example of a turf-cut labyrinth, situated beside Glaston Road on the outskirts of Wing village in Rutland. Though its exact age is uncertain, scholars generally date it to the medieval period, with some sources suggesting it could be over 2,500 years old. The maze appears in the Leicester and Rutland Directory of 1846, described as "an ancient maze, in which the rustics run at the parish feast." Its enduring presence reflects a once widespread tradition of turf mazes across England, of which fewer than eight remain in their original form.Design and Structure
The maze is circular, roughly 14 meters (about 46 feet) in diameter, and follows a unicursal design—meaning it has a single, non-branching path that leads to the center without dead ends. This pattern is known as the "Classical," "Cretan," or "Chartres" labyrinth, named after the famous pavement labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral, France. The path consists of 11 circuits laid out in a cruciform pattern, with the walking route formed by raised grass turf rather than bare earth. This design invites contemplative walking, symbolizing spiritual journeys or penance.Spiritual and Cultural Context
Historically, turf mazes like Wing Maze were often associated with ritual penance and spiritual reflection. It is speculated that medieval monks may have constructed or used the maze as part of religious practices, possibly as a symbolic pilgrimage substitute during the Crusades. Walking the maze on knees was thought to be an act of atonement. Other interpretations link such mazes to fertility rites or protective charms against evil spirits. By the 19th century, the maze’s religious significance had diminished, becoming a site for parish festivities and games.Preservation and Local Importance
Wing Maze is legally protected as a scheduled ancient monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, recognizing its national historical importance. The site includes a 3-meter boundary around the labyrinth to preserve its integrity. The maze remains a valued heritage feature for the local community and visitors, symbolizing a tangible connection to medieval England’s cultural and spiritual landscape.Setting and Surroundings
The maze is located on the village green beside Glaston Road, near the medieval Church of St Peter and St Paul, enhancing its historical ambiance. Wing itself is a small Rutland village with a population of just over 300, known for its 17th-century stone houses and tranquil rural character. Nearby landmarks include Thorney Abbey, which adds to the area's rich medieval heritage.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visiting Wing Maze offers a peaceful and reflective experience. The gentle curves of the grass path invite slow, mindful walking, making it a unique spot for meditation or quiet contemplation. The rural setting and historic surroundings contribute to a tranquil ambiance, allowing visitors to connect with centuries of tradition and mystery embedded in this rare turf labyrinth.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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All Saints Church : Oakham
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Kirby Hall
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Sacrewell Farm
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Newlands Shopping Centre
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Essential places to dine
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Casa Romana Restaurant
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The White Peacock
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Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
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Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
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The Frame
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Merchant of Venice
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Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
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Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
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Cosy Club
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The Pheasant, Keyston
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Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Yards Kettering
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Nest
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Valley Discount Store
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Prettiez
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Karma Corner Gifts
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St George's Shopping Park
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The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
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Haymarket Shopping Centre
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Nim's Boutique ltd
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Urban Outfitters
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The Source
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Draper's Arms - JD Wetherspoon
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Babelas Continental Bar
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Blind Tiger
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The Bumble Inn
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The Ostrich Inn
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
