A Labyrinth for Wellbeing

Come along to (re)discover how enriching walking a labyrinth can be. In the atmospheric setting of King’s Manor, explore a labyrinth that reflects its natural surroundings, laid out in a pattern which is instantly recognisable but one that you won’t have walked before.  Access your calm and confidence as you walk or view the labyrinth, which is suitable for people familiar with labyrinths, as well as those of you who are just beginning to learn about them.

The heart-shaped labyrinth on the lawn of the King’s Manor reflects the consideration of what makes a city like York so appealing for the local community to live in and thrive in, as well as the thousands of people who visit it throughout the year. It's a city that has a pulse of energy regardless of the season as people enjoy inspirational architecture, music, theatre and the delight of international cuisine and traditional ales. There are waves of people who descend on the Knavesmire for a frenzy of horse racing, while others enter the Minster for breathtaking stillness and reflection.

There’s so much to celebrate as you walk the labyrinth and increase your wellbeing and the heart shape design reflects your pulse and heartbeat as being a good starting point for a meditative walk.  Begin by breathing more gently for a few minutes. When you are ready, begin your walk slowly along the sawdust pathway until you reach the centre of the labyrinth. Pause for thought, then return on the same pathway.

Find out how to walk a labyrinth

Important information to note:

• Please be aware that the drive around the lawn is in regular use throughout the day and evening.
• Please take care on wet grass as it may be slippery.
• Please be aware that people are working in nearby offices. We appreciate you keeping noise to a minimum.
• Unfortunately, the lawn is not wheelchair accessible. However, both wheelchairs and pedestrians can use the surrounding drive to circumnavigate the labyrinth. Extra care needs to be taken as there may be vehicle traffic.

Many thanks to the University of York’s Estates team for preparing the site for this labyrinth.

Image credit: © Peter Clark

About the creator

The labyrinth was created by Peter Clark, who has been laying labyrinths in a variety of materials for several years in numerous locations, including a prison, schools, a university, a hospital, numerous churches, a conference centre, public parks and private gardens.

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