Peace Maze at Castlewellan Forest Park

The Peace Maze is a large hedge maze in this forest park created from yew shrubs that form an intricate network of pathways covering several acres. The walls stand about 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall and guide visitors through a system designed to challenge their navigation skills.

The maze was planted in 2000 as a response to the peace process in Northern Ireland, with broad community support for its creation. Thousands of local schoolchildren contributed to its design, making it a collective effort that involved the wider population.

The maze was created as a symbol of peace for the region, and its design reflects the hope for reconciliation between different communities. The two sections represent a path that visitors walk to reach the central peace bell at its heart.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the paths are level ground and exploring can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on how quickly you solve it. The site is accessible on foot and offers plenty of space to wander even if you take a wrong turn.

The maze held the world record as the largest permanent hedge maze when it opened, a title it kept for several years before being surpassed. This brief period as the world's biggest made it a notable landmark in maze history.

Location: Castlewellan

GPS coordinates: 54.25846,-5.95331

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:05