Wistow Maze: Leicestershire’s Living Puzzle and Family Adventure
Explore an 8-acre living maize maze with quiz trails, panoramic views, and family fun at Leicestershire’s award-winning Wistow Maze.
Wistow Maze is a giant 8-acre maize maze in rural Leicestershire featuring over 3 miles of winding paths, a fun quiz trail, high-level bridges, and viewing towers offering panoramic countryside views. Each year, the maze is redesigned with a new theme, providing a fresh challenge. The adjacent Activity Funyard offers mini mazes and games for all ages, while the nearby Wistow Rural Centre complements the visit with a café, garden centre, model village, art gallery, and shops.
A brief summary to Wistow Maze
- Kibworth Rd, Leicester, LE8 0QF, GB
- +447884403889
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit between mid-July and mid-September when the maze is open daily, with weekend access until mid-September.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking the maze’s three miles of paths and exploring the Activity Funyard.
- Take time to enjoy the panoramic views from the high-level bridges and towers scattered throughout the maze.
- Combine your maze visit with a stop at the Wistow Rural Centre for refreshments, shopping, and cultural experiences.
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 No. 49 bus from Leicester city centre towards Fleckney, staying on until the Wistow stop near the Rural Centre and Maze. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance. The stop is close to the maze entrance for easy access.
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Car
Drive to Wistow Maze via Kibworth Road, Leicester. Parking is free and available on-site. Travel time from Leicester city centre is about 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. Note that the rural roads can be narrow, so drive cautiously.
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Walking
For nearby visitors, walking to Wistow Maze from the village centre involves a 20 to 30-minute stroll along country lanes and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but may be uneven in places, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Wistow 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 Wistow Maze
A Living Maze with Ever-Changing Designs
Wistow Maze stands out as a unique, living attraction covering eight acres of towering maize. Each summer, the maze is meticulously planned and planted with a new design, often reflecting topical themes or local heritage, such as the 2025 steam train design celebrating the 200th anniversary of the modern railway. Using GPS satellite technology, the maze’s intricate pathways stretch over three miles, inviting visitors to navigate a quiz trail with 12 quiz boards hidden throughout. This dynamic approach ensures that no two visits are the same, making it a perennial favourite for families and puzzle enthusiasts.Engaging Activities Beyond the Maze
Beyond the main maize labyrinth, the Activity Funyard offers a lively space filled with mini mazes and interactive games, including a space hopper track, hoopla, beanbag throwing, and football shooting. This area is designed to entertain children and adults alike, providing a playful complement to the mental challenge of the maze. The high-level bridges and viewing towers scattered around the maze afford stunning panoramic views of the maze’s patterns and the surrounding Leicestershire countryside, perfect for photo opportunities and moments of rest.Wistow Rural Centre: A Year-Round Companion
Situated opposite the maze, the Wistow Rural Centre enriches the visitor experience with a café/bistro serving refreshments, a garden centre, a charming model village, an art gallery, and a variety of shops. These amenities remain open year-round, offering a welcoming retreat after maze adventures or a destination for those visiting outside the maze’s summer season. The rural setting enhances the peaceful ambiance, blending cultural, culinary, and shopping experiences in one location.Seasonal Rhythm and Natural Setting
The maze operates seasonally from mid-July to mid-September, aligning with the maize growing cycle. After the season, the maize is harvested and repurposed as winter cattle feed, with new crops planted the following spring. This cycle maintains the maze’s sustainability and connection to local agriculture. The surrounding landscape, including the nearby Grand Union Canal and historic St Wistan’s churchyard, offers additional exploration opportunities steeped in local legend and natural beauty.Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Accessibility
Wistow Maze is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. The quiz trail and funyard games engage children and adults alike, making it a perfect day out for families. Facilities such as free parking, a café, and well-maintained paths ensure comfort and convenience. The maze’s layout and viewing points also provide safe spaces for parents to watch children explore, fostering a relaxed and sociable environment.A Celebrated Attraction in Leicestershire
Winner of Leicestershire’s Best Visitor Attraction award, Wistow Maze has become a beloved summer tradition. Its blend of physical activity, mental challenge, and rural charm draws visitors from across the region. The maze’s commitment to annual redesigns and family-friendly features ensures it remains a fresh and engaging experience year after year, embodying both local culture and countryside adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Lear
9.1 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Welford Place
9.6 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
10.1 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
10.2 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Museum Development East Midlands
13.9 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Earl Shilton Castle
17.0 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
23.0 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Memorial Clock Tower
28.3 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
29.9 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.9 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Sir Frank Whittle
34.6 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Council House
34.7 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Lady Godiva
34.9 km
Explore the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a stunning tribute to bravery and heritage, surrounded by vibrant city life and rich history.
Fords Hospital Alms House
35.0 km
Explore Fords Hospital Alms House, a historic gem in Coventry offering a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage.
St John the Baptist Church
35.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of St John the Baptist Church in Coventry, a serene haven for tourists and worshippers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Windmill Farm Park
5.3 km
Five generations of farming heritage meet family adventure in rural Leicestershire.
Shady Lane Arboretum
6.5 km
A peaceful arboretum in Leicester with diverse trees, meadows, and historical charm, perfect for nature walks and quiet reflection.
Attenborough Arboretum
6.8 km
Discover Leicester’s Attenborough Arboretum, a living timeline of native trees and tranquil wildlife habitats in a historic urban green space.
Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve
8.6 km
Leicester’s largest local nature reserve, a tranquil mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and canal-side paths rich in wildlife and history.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
9.2 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Fosse Park
9.3 km
Britain’s large out-of-town shopping park near Leicester, offering top retail brands and vibrant dining under a striking glass roof.
Town Hall Square Fountain
9.8 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
The Newarke Houses Museum
9.8 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Market
9.9 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
10.0 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
10.0 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
Leicester Castle
10.0 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Leicester Cathedral
10.0 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Clock Tower
10.0 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
The Guildhall Museum
10.1 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Essential places to dine
OGGI Italian Restaurant
8.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
9.4 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
The White Peacock
9.5 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Casa Romana Restaurant
9.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
9.8 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
10.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
10.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
10.1 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
10.1 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Cosy Club
10.2 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
10.2 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Black Iron
10.9 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Dom restaurant and bar
14.0 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
15.5 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nest
7.1 km
Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.
Karma Corner Gifts
7.7 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
Prettiez
7.8 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Valley Discount Store
9.0 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
St George's Shopping Park
9.6 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Nim's Boutique ltd
9.7 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
9.8 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Just Fair Trade
10.0 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Very Bazaar Leicester
10.1 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Urban Outfitters
10.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Wardrobe
10.1 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Arciide
10.1 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
10.1 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
10.1 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Set
10.1 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Babelas Continental Bar
7.8 km
A cozy, quirky bar in Leicester’s Clarendon Park serving continental beers, wines, and snacks in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
The Old Horse
8.3 km
A friendly, pet-welcoming Leicester pub with hearty roasts, unique charm, and a spacious garden for relaxed socializing.
The Loaded Dog
8.7 km
A lively Leicester pub buzzing with craft beers, live sports, and a student-friendly atmosphere on London Road.
The Marquis Wellington
8.8 km
A classic Leicester gastropub offering hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere with heated beer garden beach huts.
The King's Head
9.5 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
9.5 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
9.7 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Brick & Beam
9.7 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The Distillery
9.7 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Duffy's Bar
9.7 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
The Exchange Bar
9.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Firebug
9.8 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
9.8 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
The Blue Boar
9.8 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Knight & Garter
9.9 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Basement
9.6 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
9.6 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
9.8 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
9.9 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
The 2Funky Lounge
10.1 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
10.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Motto Nightclub
10.3 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Club Republic
10.3 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Fan Club
10.3 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Corah Works
10.5 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Tubes
25.8 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Echo's Night Club
25.9 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
28.1 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Ciros Nightclub
34.8 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
The Boston
37.2 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly