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Hampton Court Palace
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The Maze at Hampton Court Palace | Oldest Surviving Hedge Maze in Britain

Included with Hampton Court Palace tickets

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

Hampton Court Maze

Imagine wandering through the twists and turns of the UK’s oldest hedge maze at Hampton Court Palace—a living puzzle designed in the late 1600s by King William III. Though just half an acre, this iconic maze is packed with winding paths that challenge your sense of direction.. Ready to test your navigation skills and discover one of England’s historic garden treasures?

About Hampton Court Maze

hampton court hedge maze

Hampton Court Palace Maze, commissioned by King William III around 1700, is a playful attraction nestled within the palace gardens. Covering about one-third of an acre, this maze isn't just any maze—it has a multicursal design with multiple paths and dead ends, making it a fun challenge to navigate. Originally part of the "Wilderness Garden," it has a rich history and even features in literature like Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome. With modern additions like an audio art installation, finding your way around this maze will be a whimsical experience!

Quick facts about Hampton Court Maze

  • Official name: Hampton Court Maze
  • Location: Inside Hampton Court Palace
  • Year of creation: 17th century
  • Timings: 10am to 4pm on most days
  • Architect: George London and Henry Wise
  • Design style: Puzzle maze

Hampton Court Maze timings

  • Opening hours: 10:30am to 4pm, on most days
  • Closed on: Most Mondays-Tuesdays and December 24-26, 2024
  • Free entry on: September 14-15, November 23-24, December 26, 2024 
  • Best time to visit: The best time to visit Hampton Court Maze is on weekday mornings, especially Wednesday or Thursday, before midday, or during winter months when it's quieter.
  • How long does it take to walk through the maze? It takes about 20 minutes to reach the center of Hampton Court Maze, and 30-45 minutes to complete the entire maze.

History of Hampton Court Maze

The Hampton Court Maze is a famed gem that dates back to around 1690, commissioned by King William III and Queen Mary II. Designed by royal gardeners George London and Henry Wise, it originally featured hornbeam trees—deciduous trees known for their dense, sturdy hedges. Covering about one-third of an acre with half a mile of innovative multicursal layout, featuring a complex network of paths, the Hampton Court Maze marked a significant evolution from traditional maze tunnels.

Fun fact: This maze may have replaced an even older one, possibly from the time of Henry VIII! The labyrinth gained fame in Jerome K. Jerome's 1889 novel Three Men in a Boat, where the maze's amusing challenge is humorously described.

In the 1960s, the hornbeam trees were replaced with yew, ensuring the maze stayed lush and green. Today, it remains a must-visit spot, offering a delightful mix of history and fun for everyone who dares to navigate its twists and turns.

Design of Hampton Court Maze

hampton court hedge maze

The Hampton Court Maze, designed by George London and Henry Wise around 1690, showcases a distinctive multicursal layout. Unlike simple unicursal mazes with a single path, this maze features multiple routes and dead ends, making navigation a thrilling challenge. Planted initially with hornbeam hedges for their dense, sturdy qualities, it was replanted with yew in the 1960s for enhanced durability. Located within the Wilderness Garden—a serene retreat designed for leisurely walks—the maze integrates seamlessly with the broader gardens of Hampton Court Palace. A charming copper tower with a weathervane stands at its center, adding to its allure. This is the UK's oldest surviving hedge maze and a remarkable piece of Georgian garden artistry.

Fequently Askes Questions about Hampton Court Maze

Do you have to pay for the Hampton Court Maze?

The Hampton Court Maze is included with the admission to Hampton Court Palace, so no extra fee is required.

Is the Hampton Court Maze challenging?

The maze is moderately challenging, with multiple paths and dead ends. However, the experience is a fun one and engaging for visitors of all ages.

What strategies do experienced visitors recommend to get out of the Hampton Court Maze?

Follow the paths towards the center; use the ornate copper tower as a landmark to help guide your way out with ease.

What historical significance does the maze hold in relation to the gardens of Hampton Court Palace?

The maze is a historic feature of the Wilderness Garden, reflecting the elaborate garden design trends of the late 17th century.

Is there any audio installation that enhances the experience of visiting the maze?

Yes, an installation named 'Trace' enriches the maze experience with ambient sounds that create an immersive, sensory adventure as you explore.

How do seasonal changes affect the appearance and experience of the maze?

Seasonal changes bring varied foliage to the Hampton Court Maze: lush greens in spring and summer, warm red and orange hues in autumn, and a minimalistic look of bare branches in winter, thus offering unique experiences year-round.

What precautions should you take to ensure an enjoyable experience when navigating the maze?

Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and keep track of your route to ensure a fun maze adventure.

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