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Find Birmingham's Lost Treasure
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Locate the legendary Golden Gondolier statue
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Explore Birmingham Differently
Discover somewhere new - or rediscover somewhere you thought you knew.
- Follow a carefully planned self-guided route through the area
- Use real landmarks and features to crack around 18 clever clues
- Notice fascinating features you'd normally walk straight past
- Great fun for everyone from 6 to 106
- Around 2 hours of exploring
Around 2 miles of walking - One trail is perfect for up to 5 people
How it Works
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1. Choose how you want to explore
Use the App, print your Trail at home, or let us print and post it to you.
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2. Access it
instantlyYour App and PDF are ready immediately, whichever option you choose.
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3. Explore
& solveFollow the route and crack the sneaky clues along the way.
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4. Submit
your answerEnter your final
answer online to
reveal the ending.
Ready for an adventure?
A trail of clues awaits in
Birmingham
The city of Birmingham is known as the 'Venice of the North' for its extensive canal system. But local archaeologists, Ian and Diana Jones, have uncovered a mysterious manuscript while moving documents to the new library building. After decoding it, they discovered that it is a map leading to a legendary treasure-the long-lost statue of the Golden Gondolier! Now, it's up to the bravest treasure hunters (YOU!) to venture beside the canal, crack the clues, and track down this elusive prize.
Treasure Hunt Through the 'Venice of the North'
Your self-guided treasure hunt Trail will take you on a journey through the historic and scenic towns of Birmingham, linking the past and present in an exciting circular route. As you follow the canal, you'll uncover sneaky clues hidden in historic buildings and modern landmarks, spanning over 200 years of history.
Starting in the bustling city centre, you'll soon leave behind the hustle and bustle and venture into the ancient secrets of the 'Venice of the North'. But beware-this Trail won't be easy. Ian and Diana Jones have always been one step ahead, and only the most daring adventurers will be able to decipher the clues and uncover the truth behind the legend of the Golden Gondolier.
Are YOU ready to unearth the treasure and reveal the secrets of the 'Venice of the North'?
Your answers hold the key...
Uncover the hiding place and reveal the story behind the treasure.
Trail Information
Trail Information
Trail Location
The Birmingham - Venice of the North Treasure Trail starts at:
Broad Street
Birmingham
West Midlands
West Midlands
B1 2DY
England
Treasure Hunt Trail
Treasure
Hunt
2 Hours
2 miles
Not
Accessible
Not
Accessible
Dog
Friendly
The Details
- A self-guided treasure hunt walking Trail around Birmingham.
- Ideal for kids aged 6 – 106!
- 2-mile ‘loop’ Trail (takes 2 hours to complete at your own pace).
- Text message service with clues if you get stuck.
- Learn more about where you live or explore somewhere new.
- Download your Trail now for INSTANT FUN (or receive your copy in the post)!
Navigating The Route
This is a circular Treasure Hunt through Birmingham’s canal network, city centre landmarks and waterside paths, with explorers following towpaths, pavements and bridges as they hunt for the Golden Gondolier.
The route is mostly along canal towpaths, with a few steps, bridges and changes in level, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Important: Much of the quest takes place along open canal edges and near lock systems where the water can be deep, so explorers should take extra care, avoid running ahead and keep younger adventurers under close supervision at all times.
Getting There
Time to gather your explorers and begin the quest:
By car: Nearest large car parks include Town Hall Car Park (B1 1TA) and The Mailbox (B1 1RD).
By public transport: Birmingham New Street Station is around a 10-minute walk from the start, making this an easy quest to reach by rail.
Need the Loo?
Even seasoned explorers need a quick pit stop! Toilets can be found in the Library of Birmingham (near Clue 13) and in the Convention Centre (after Clue 15).
Bring Your Furry Sidekicks
Four-legged explorers are welcome on the quest 🐾. With plenty of towpaths and open routes, it’s a great outing for dogs - just keep leads handy near water, bridges and busier sections.
Food & Drink Stops
You won’t go hungry on this expedition! There are plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants along the canal and city centre route, especially around Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin.
If the weather’s kind, bringing a picnic to enjoy beside the canal is a brilliant way to pause, refuel and soak up the atmosphere.
Want to Make a Day of It?
Canal Network and Industrial Heritage
You’re exploring the very heart of Birmingham’s canal system - once the engine room of the Industrial Revolution and still one of the most fascinating urban waterways in the UK.
Brindleyplace and Waterside Wandering
This lively canalside area is packed with places to relax, watch the boats drift by and enjoy the mix of old industry and modern city life.
Library Views and City Landmarks
The Library of Birmingham offers stunning rooftop views across the city - well worth the climb if you fancy seeing your adventure from above once the treasure is found.
Mini Explorer Club
Mini Explorer Club
We have three super duper themed Clubs for your child to enjoy as part of their Treasure Trail experience.
Perfect for 4-8 year olds, the concept behind the Clubs is that your child will get a bundle of goodies to excite
them about their forthcoming Trail experience, something to keep them entertained whilst travelling to and from
the Trail, and something to be given on completion of the Trail as a keepsake.
Show more »
What is a Treasure Trail?
What is a Treasure Trail?
