In 1620, the Mayflower carried 102 passengers - known today as the Pilgrims - from Plymouth, England, across the Atlantic to North America. They left behind everything they knew in search of religious freedom and a fresh start… But this wasn’t a luxury cruise. 

The ship was cramped, the journey brutal, and storms battered them for weeks. By the time they reached land, the Mayflower and her passengers had cemented their place in history as pioneers of a new world.

Today, Plymouth’s historic harbour still holds the echoes of Mayflower voyage. The Mayflower Steps mark the spot where the Pilgrims departed  and standing there, it’s hard not to feel the suspense of that moment: the creak of timber, the crash of waves, and the courage it took to sail into the unknown.

What mysteries surround the Mayflower today?

For all its fame, the Mayflower’s voyage is still shrouded in unanswered questions. Historians debate where exactly the ship first anchored in the New World. Others speculate about the missing records, hidden journals, or untold stories that never made it back across the sea. And some say there were passengers - or treasures - whose names never appeared on the official lists.

The truth? The Mayflower’s story is part history, part legend — a tale that still invites explorers and curious minds to uncover what lies beneath the surface.

Are there any city tours that explore Plymouth’s history?

Absolutely and that’s where Mystery Guides Plymouth comes in. In The Mystery of The Golden Scallop, you’ll unravel a brand-new adventure inspired by the same spirit of discovery that drove the Mayflower across the ocean.

When Francis Cook, who was one of the real-life Mayflower passengers, set sail for the New World, he carried with him a golden scallop shell for luck. But one day, this priceless charm vanished without a trace… Was it stolen? Hidden? Lost to time?

Armed with your Plymouth Mystery Guide, you’ll follow a trail of cryptic treasure hunt clues through Plymouth’s historic streets, exploring landmarks tied to the Mayflower while solving puzzles that bring the city’s maritime past to life. It’s part treasure hunt, part immersive city tour, part outdoor escape room,  and entirely unforgettable.

Why make your next Plymouth visit a Mystery Guides adventure?

Because this isn’t just a normal city tour - it’s storytelling you can step into. You get to uncover real history, chase fictional mysteries, and all the while experience the thrill of discovery at every turn.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or you are just looking for a fun group activity in Plymouth, The Mystery of The Golden Scallop lets you relive one of England’s greatest journeys,  and maybe even uncover a legend of your own.

So order your Plymouth Mystery Guide, from our online store, when it arrives, gather your crew, and set sail (on foot) into Plymouth’s past. The next great mystery is waiting, and this time, you are the explorer… Grab your Mystery Guide here.