Nestled within the serene landscapes of Castlewellan Forest Park in County Down, the Castlewellan Peace Maze stands as both a marvel of horticultural design and a poignant symbol of Northern Ireland’s journey toward peace. Constructed in 2000–2001, this labyrinth of 6,000 meticulously planted yew trees spans 2.7 acres, creating a sprawling network of paths totaling over 3 kilometers. Its creation was a collective effort, with nearly 4,000 schoolchildren contributing ideas to its layout and thousands of local community members participating in the planting—a deliberate act of unity to commemorate the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Officially opened in 2001, the maze was funded by the European Union’s Peace and Reconciliation Programme alongside local authorities, underscoring its role as a tangible tribute to cross-community collaboration.
The maze’s design, led by landscape architect Beverly Lear, reflects its dual purpose as a navigational challenge and a metaphor for peace. Visitors traverse two distinct halves before reaching the central Peace Bell, a focal point where the journey’s completion is celebrated. The yew trees, chosen for their symbolism of longevity and resilience, form hedges kept at a deliberate 1.5-meter height to encourage communication between maze explorers—a subtle nod to the reconciliation the structure represents. At its peak, the maze held the title of the world’s largest permanent hedge maze until 2007, though it remains Northern Ireland’s largest and a testament to communal vision.
Exploring the maze offers a blend of cerebral challenge and natural beauty. Solving the winding paths typically takes around 40 minutes, with the reward of a panoramic view of the Mourne Mountains from the center. Surrounding facilities include a play area for children and picnic spots, though the maze itself is the undoubted centerpiece. Best experienced during the park’s open season (April to October), the yew hedges showcase seasonal transformations, from vibrant greens in spring to autumnal hues. A unique aspect is the maze’s accessibility: while designed to be navigated on foot, its lower hedge height allows for social interaction, contrasting with traditional maze designs. Whether as a family activity or a reflective walk, the Peace Maze transcends its role as a tourist attraction, embodying a legacy of hope and shared history.
Getting There
By Air: The nearest airports are Belfast International (30 miles north of Belfast city center) and George Best Belfast City Airport (7 miles from Belfast). From these, a 31-mile drive south on the A2 will reach the park. Dublin Airport, 105 miles south of Belfast, is another entry point, with a total driving distance of ~80 miles to Castlewellan.
By Train: Major rail stations in Belfast (Central, Lanyon Place) and Dublin Connolly offer connections across Ireland and the UK. While no trains run directly to the park, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car from Belfast stations.
By Bus: Translink buses connect Belfast and Dublin to nearby towns like Newcastle. From Belfast, take a bus to Newcastle (a 30-minute drive from the park), then arrange a taxi or car. No direct bus routes terminate at the forest park.
Driving Directions: - From Belfast: Follow the A2 south toward Newcastle, then continue past the town toward Castlewellan. Signs to the Forest Park will guide you the final 3 miles. - From Dublin: Take the M1 north to the border, then the A1 and A2 toward Newcastle. Turn onto the B178 at Newcastle for the final leg to the park. - From Newcastle: Head south on the B178 directly to the park in 30 minutes.
Local Transport: Taxis are available from nearby towns like Newcastle or the Mourne Mountains area. Pedestrians can enter the park at no cost, but no public buses or trains stop at the site.
Ferry Travel: Ferries from Holyhead to Dublin or Stranraer to Belfast provide sea access. From Dublin, drive north via the M1; from Belfast, follow the A2 south to the park.
Parking
Visitors to the Castlewellan Peace Maze will find convenient on-site parking available, with ample spaces to accommodate cars, coaches, minibuses, and motorbikes. Parking fees vary by vehicle type: cars incur a £5.00 charge, while coaches (over 24 seats) are £35.00, minibuses £13.00, and motorbikes £2.50. Seasonal passes offer cost savings, with a standard Season Ticket priced at £25.00 and an annual car permit available for £40.00 (or £25.00 for concessionary rates). Payment is accepted via all major credit and debit cards, though some sources do not confirm cash availability—arrive prepared with card options.
Accessibility is well-supported, with parking spaces designated for disabled visitors. The parking lot is situated within a short, easy walk of the Peace Maze entrance, ensuring a convenient start to your exploration.
During peak seasons or busy weekends, arriving early is advisable to secure a parking spot. If the on-site lot fills, nearby roadside parking along the forest park’s perimeter may be an alternative, though this is not officially managed. Pedestrians entering the forest park are not charged, so consider parking in adjacent areas and walking in if needed.
Please note that fees cover vehicle entry to Castlewellan Forest Park, which hosts the maze, and no time restrictions are noted for parking duration. Seasonal permits and passes can be purchased on-site or in advance through official channels.
Pricing
Admission to the Castlewellan Peace Maze itself is free, but entry to Castlewellan Forest Park—where the maze is located—requires a fee depending on your mode of transport:
- Vehicle Entry Fees (per visit):
- Car: £5 (~€5.80)
- Motorbike: £2.50 (~€2.90)
- Coach (over 24 seats): £35 (~€40.34)
- Minibus (8–24 seats): £13 (~€14.98)
Pedestrians can enter the park and access the maze at no cost.
Seasonal Permits and Discounts
- Annual Car Permit: £40 (~€46.10) for unlimited park visits.
- Concessionary Annual Permit: £25 (~€28.81) for seniors (over 65), students, or children under 16 (with ID).
- Seasonal Minibus Permit: £65 (~€74.86) for repeated minibus access.
Group and Special Rates
- Groups of 10+ people can book guided tours at £8 (~€9.22) per person.
- No explicit family discounts are listed, but group rates for coaches and minibuses may offer savings for larger parties.
Free Entry Opportunities
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17): Free entry for all visitors.
- First Monday of Each Month: Free entry for local residents with valid ID.
Additional Costs
- Guided Tours: £8 (~€9.22) per person for groups, focusing on the maze’s history and surroundings.
- Parking Fees: Included in the above vehicle entry costs.
Payment Methods
Cash and major credit/debit cards are accepted at the park entrance. Seasonal permits and tickets must be purchased on-site.
Note: Prices are converted from GBP to EUR using an approximate exchange rate (1 GBP ≈ €1.15). Rates are subject to change; confirm details directly with the park before visiting.
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