Highgate

On this treasure hunt Trail you could be forgiven for forgetting how close you are to central London; it sometimes seems more like a quiet walk in the countryside. The route leads you through the leafy residential streets of Highgate, onto Hampstead Heath, and up to Highgate Village via the world-famous cemetery before redescending Highgate Hill with its views over the City - according to legend passing the very spot where Dick Whittington was compelled to 'turn again' to become three times Lord Mayor of London.

The Trail includes a longish steady climb up Swains Lane, and we recommend an optional diversion into Waterlow Park on the way to enjoy the ponds, the fountain and the views. We've even included some suggestions for things to do and see while you're there. A picnic would be an excellent idea for this walking Trail which should otherwise take just under three hours to complete.

As ever, the entire Trail is a combined game of seeking treasure hunt clues and solving the puzzle, and we've included some that are suitable for children as well as some more challenging ones for adults.

Approximate distance 3.5 miles.
Estimated completion time 3 hours (excluding optional breaks, games and picnics).

The Trail starts and ends at Archway Station.

Nearest Tube Station: Archway (Northern Line, High Barnet branch)

Bus Routes: 4, 17, 41, 390 and several others - see Transport for London at http://www.tfl.gov.uk for routes and times.

The Trail is suitable for pushchairs and for wheelchairs in the main part, although there are some kerbs, a short stretch which may be muddy in poor weather, and a long gradual hill with some narrow pavements, which might require some assistance.