Walking tour of Oxford – using a treasure hunt app

The makers of ‘Treasure Hunt Oxford’ have just launched an alternative walking tour of the city that shows off hidden architecture and untold stories of the dreaming spires.

Starting in the shadow of Oxford Castle, users are sent scavenger hunt maps in a mobile phone messaging service that looks like WhatsApp.

The maps will take them into the city centre, winding around the towers and taverns.

Along the way, a virtual pirate who is leading the tour through the messaging service will send over clues and riddles to help find the ‘treasure’.

The app bosses say: “Oxford’s beautiful streets are full of hidden treasure, from intriguing sculptures perched up high to medieval stone architecture.

“The app will have you uncovering the best of it.”

Because the game is played through a mobile phone and is outdoors, groups of six people can make a team following the Government guidelines.

It lasts approximately two hours in total but the game can be paused.

It can even be paused until the next day, if it rains.

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In extreme weather the £9.99 playing fee can also be refunded.

Jo, who play-tested it last week, said: “The route was really interesting, taking in lots of quiet corners and unusual buildings yet passing some famous landmarks along the way.

“I liked the fact that the clues weren’t too easy and that there was extra information about them available just as you were wanting to know more – very well researched.

“One of the best things about this treasure hunt was the graphics and great quality pictures.

“I especially loved the map at the end which showed the route unfolding as you revisited all the places.”

Co-founder Ian Drysdale said: “As restrictions are lifting, we’re delighted to launch our latest treasure hunt in Oxford.

“It’s a stunning place and we had a lot of fun designing the game here in winter.

“Now that restrictions are lifting and people are venturing back into the city, I can’t wait to hear what they think.

“I hope it’s a good thing for anyone who is fed up of being indoors and wants to do something a bit different.”

The walk is two-and-a-half miles long.

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Under-12s can play for free and the tour is suitable for different playing levels.

The ‘pirate’ Bess can also give more clues and hints if needed.

To book a slot visit treasurehuntoxford.com

There you can choose the type of event: a family day out, hen party or social gathering and how many people will be taking part.

Slots of days can be then be reserved or booked during the ‘daylight hours’ and users will be sent the details of how to play.

The game will be through a webpage set up for the treasure hunt and it will be a similar layout to the social messaging app WhatsApp.

It doesn’t require any downloads, permissions or anything to be printed out.

It does require an internet connection.