Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start my Mystery Guide adventure today?
Absolutely! Most locations have the option to click & collect, which means you can pick it up today! Simply choose click & collect at checkout, go to the location specified on your order email (at the time and date that you booked), and a staff member will issue you with your order. 1 x Mystery Guide is given for every two people booked, so for a 3-person booking, 2 x Guides will be issued.
How long does delivery take?
1-2 working days from shipment date. Please be aware that all orders received before 2pm will be shipped the same working day. Any orders received after 2pm will be shipped the next working day. All orders will be sent via Royal Mail, and come with a basic tracking service.
Do I need to book anything in advance?
You don’t need to book anything! Once you receive your Mystery Guide, simply grab a pen and head to the starting point detailed on page 4 of the booklet.
Where does it start?
A map to the starting point is provided on page 4 of your Mystery Guide.
Can I start any time I like?
Yes you can! But be aware - if you want to enter pubs along the way, make sure you plan to do your adventure during normal operating hours. It is also advised that you do the adventure in daylight, as you will need to find hidden things. If you do it at night... bring a torch!
How long does it take?
Walking distances range from 3-4km, and the activity should take between 2-3 hours (depending on the length of your refreshment breaks along the way!)
What type of puzzles do we need to solve?
There are a vast range of different puzzle types, which are tailor-made to relate to each stopping point. Examples include hidden objects, number games, missing word puzzles, codes to crack, people to find, and many many more.
What is the target age for these activities?
The escape-room style clues and amazing local history stories are designed for adults, however that isn’t to say that children can’t also take part! Clues vary in difficulty so the whole family can play! Adults can solve the harder clues, while children aged around 8+ can take care of the easier ones. Everyone will learn something and have fun along the way!
How many people can participate with one book?
I recommend one book for 2-3 people so that everyone can take part in solving the clues and reading the story. You don’t want 10 people huddled around just one book!
Is a Mystery Guide a book?
A Mystery Guide is a 40-44 page colour booklet, containing maps & directions, puzzles to solve, local history stories, and a fictional narrative which develops along the way. Everything you need for your adventure is in there!
Are Mystery Guides difficult? And what happens if I can’t solve a clue?
They are designed to suit all levels of difficulty, and challenge you with a wide range of different skills. Some you will get right away, others require time, until you get that ‘of course!’ moment. If you really can’t crack a clue, there are hints on the back page which provides extra help to solve it. So you won’t get stuck!
What if the clues are obstructed or change?
On rare occasions, monuments, signs and other items may be temporarily covered, or permanently removed, which will prevent you from solving a clue. In this instance we ask you to use the extra clues at the back of the book, and if possible, please report this to us. Clues have been carefully selected to ensure that any instances such as this are extremely rare. It is recommended that you do the activity within 3 months of purchase, to reduce the risk of any closures or changes to venues / clues.
Do I need to go indoors to solve clues?
The vast majority of clues are located outside, however on some occasions there will be indoor stopping points. In these instances, extra clues are always provided in the back of the booklet, making the indoor stops optional.
Are pub stops compulsory?
Pub stops are optional, and have been included to give you a rest along the way. Locations have been carefully selected to provide you with the oldest and most atmospheric taverns available in your chosen destination.
How do I claim food & drink discounts?
Some Mystery Guides include food & drink discounts, which can be redeemed by showing the booklet to staff. These are at the discretion of the premises and may be subject to change without notice.
Is it dog-friendly?
Absolutely. Walking routes are mostly outside, and where indoor locations have been featured, they have been selected with this consideration.
Are all the adventures wheel-chair accessible?
Almost. Bristol requires the use of steep steps at one stage, so is less suitable, but the others should be fine. If you experience any issues along the way, I would be very keen to hear about them, so please let us know!