Pans Labyrinth?

Following on from the consultation we did which showed a maze as one of the most wanted things for the park, Friends Secretary, Carole, met with Di Williams, the UK master trainer in labyrinth facilitation, who instigated the labyrinth in Edinburgh's George Square.

Labyrinth or Maze?

A maze is a confusing pathway that has many branches, choices of path and dead-ends.  To create a traditional maze where people could actually get lost is a huge commitment and one that seems impracticable at the current time.

At first glance, a labyrinth might look like a maze but actually has a single through-route with twists and turns but without branches.  It may be long but there is only one path. Because it doesn't involve making left/right choices, the walker can just clear their mind and follow the path. It can be a very calming experience, but equally, very exciting for children who love zooming along the path!

What now?

Our plans are at a very early stage but here is what we are thinking...

The size would be approximately 20 x 18ft (6 x 5m).

The location would be to the west of the lone sycamore, tucked up near the fence to make the most of the views across the Forth.

The materials used will largely depend on the council's advice re maintenance but could be:

a brick/stone path & turf edges like this:

or, compacted gravel for the path with bricks/stones partly sunk in to mark the path edges like this:

 or,  grass paths with sunken bricks (though frequent use tuns the grass to mud):

 

Labyrinths come in different styles including the 7 circuit classical labyrinth, that have been around for about 4000 years:

Then, there's the simple medieval labyrinth (like the famous one at Chartres Cathedral) which can be prettier but more difficult to build.

 

We would love to hear your views.  Email friendsofcuthillpark@hotmail.com or come along to the next work day, Saturday 8th (11 a.m. until 1 p.m.) and talk to us.