A Giant Tribute: Wistow Maze Celebrates Sir David Attenborough’s 100th Birthday with a Gorilla Labyrinth

A Monumental Celebration of a Naturalist Legend

Sir David Attenborough, the world-renowned broadcaster and naturalist, has reached a historic milestone: his 100th birthday. To honor a man who has spent a lifetime bringing the wonders of the natural world into our living rooms, one of Britain’s most famous attractions is going big—literally.

The Wistow Maze, located near Kibworth in Leicestershire, has unveiled a breathtaking new design for this season. In a stunning tribute to the legendary sir, the giant puzzle has been meticulously crafted in the shape of a mountain gorilla.

Why a Mountain Gorilla?

The choice of design is far from random. The mountain gorilla is a nod to one of the most iconic moments in Sir David Attenborough’s career: his pioneering 1978 televised encounter with these majestic creatures in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda. This encounter helped ignite a global passion for wildlife conservation, a cause Attenborough continues to champion today.

Beyond the theme, there is a personal connection. Sir David hails from Leicestershire, having grown up on the campus of the University of Leicester, making this local tribute even more meaningful.

What to Expect at Wistow Maze

Visiting the Wistow Maze is more than just a walk in the park; it is an immersive experience. Here is what makes this year’s attraction special:

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• An Epic Scale: The labyrinth features three miles of winding pathways, typically taking visitors about two hours to navigate.
• Cutting-Edge Design: Every year, the maze is redesigned using high-precision GPS and satellite technology, cutting through towering walls of corn and sunflowers.
• Educational Journey: To enrich the experience, 12 hidden quiz boards are scattered throughout the maze. These boards feature animals from Attenborough’s famous series and fascinating facts about his life and work.
• Panoramic Views: High-level bridges and towers offer visitors stunning vistas of the blossoming fields.

A Tradition of Tribute

Wistow Maze has a long history of using its landscapes to mark significant events. In previous years, the maze has taken the form of:

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• A steam train to commemorate 200 years of modern railways.
• A crown for the Queen’s Jubilee.
• An ambulance celebrating 70 years of service.
• A javelin thrower to mark the Olympics.

Plan Your Visit

If you are looking for a unique way to celebrate the legacy of David Attenborough, Wistow Maze is the place to be. Recognized as Leicestershire’s “Best Visitor Attraction,” it promises a day of fun, nature, and reflection.

Join thousands of others in celebrating a true national treasure and experience the magic of nature and design combined!