GLOUCESTER Cathedral's regular summer attraction, the Labyrinth, returned yesterday, offering visitors a unique way to pray or meditate.

The labyrinth pattern, which resembles a maze, is laid out on the floor in the main nave (the central part of the cathedral) for visitors to walk around. It measures 36ft in diameter.

There is no correct way to walk the Labyrinth, as it is hoped that each individual visitor's experience will be unique to them.

Cathedral Canon Celia Thomson says the Labyrinth offers an unusual chance for reflection.

"Unlike a maze there are no false starts. We hope to encourage people to walk in a meditative way and give them an opportunity to reflect in the wonderful space of the cathedral," she said.

The idea of the Labyrinth dates back more than 4,000 years, when classical or seven-circuit labyrinths were used in European churches as a focus for meditation. However, the example in Gloucester Cathedral is more similar to the 11-circuit labyrinths that were used in the Middle Ages across Europe.

There is no formal charge for admission to the cathedral, although visitors are invited to make a donation towards the maintenance of the magnificent building.

The Labyrinth will be at the cathedral until Bank Holiday Monday (August 29).