Boroughbridge & the Village of Aldborough

Essential Intel

This investigation can be completed wholly on foot, but it is recommended that Detectives drive to the first clue at The Devil’s Arrows, then drive into Boroughbridge. After solving the town clues, you can either drive or walk to Aldborough for the final stretch, depending on how much energy your squad has left.

Navigating The Route

This is a Detective Mystery around Boroughbridge and nearby Aldborough, with Detectives helping DCI Terry Cotter investigate who replaced priceless Roman mosaics with toy plastic bricks.

The case takes around 2+ hours. Depending on how you tackle the route, you’ll cover around 2-3 miles, with an extra 1 mile round trip if walking between Boroughbridge and Aldborough. You’ll investigate The Devil’s Arrows, Boroughbridge town centre, Hall Square, riverside and canal paths, St Helena, churchyard areas, Aldborough village and the Roman Town area.

This Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. The route includes pavements, country paths, grassy areas, narrow pavements, steps, riverside paths and road crossings. Take extra care near the River Ure, the canal, the weir and any busier roads.

Getting There

Time to gather your squad and start rebuilding the evidence:

By car - Begin at The Devil’s Arrows on the outskirts of Boroughbridge (YO51 9LP). They are on Roecliffe Lane, heading towards the town, a short distance from the roundabout with the A168. Park in the small parking bay at the start of Chestnut Drive for the first clue.

After that, drive into Boroughbridge and park at Back Lane Car Park (YO51 9AT), where there is an honesty box for payment. Later, you can either walk or drive to Aldborough for the final section.

By public transport

Make your way to Boroughbridge, then head first to The Devil’s Arrows on Roecliffe Lane to begin the investigation. This route is easiest with a car, but energetic Detectives can complete the route on foot if they are happy with the extra walking between the clue areas.

Need the Loo?

Even sharp-eyed Detectives need a comfort break before a mosaic mystery starts clicking into place. Public toilets are available at the car park in Boroughbridge, so it’s worth using them before the case heads towards the river, canal and Aldborough.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Detectives can join the outdoor investigation 🐾

This route includes pavements, narrow paths, grassy areas, riverside sections, canal paths, roads and village lanes. Keep canine colleagues close throughout, especially near traffic, water, the weir, steps and any livestock or wildlife areas. Any dog attempting to bury plastic bricks in the evidence pile should be watched carefully.

Food & Drink Stops

Solving a Roman flooring fiasco can leave the squad peckish.

Boroughbridge has a few shops, cafes and pubs, so stock up there before heading onwards. Aldborough does not have refreshment stops, so make sure you are prepared before the final section. If you have packed supplies, the riverside or canal area around Clues 05 to 07 makes a good picnic pause.

Want to Make a Day of It?

The Devil’s Arrows

The investigation begins at The Devil’s Arrows, one of the area’s standout ancient landmarks. They make a strong extra stop before the main town section, especially for Detectives who enjoy prehistoric puzzles with a side order of local legend.

Aldborough Roman Site

Aldborough is the big day-extender for this case. The Roman town of Isurium Brigantum covered 55 acres, had four gates, defensive walls and major buildings including villas, forums and temples. It’s the perfect extra for anyone wanting to dive deeper into the mosaic mystery.

St Andrew’s Church, Aldborough

St Andrew’s Church stands on the site of the old Roman temple, with a Roman statue of Mercury built into its walls. It’s a fascinating add-on while you’re in Aldborough, and a neat reminder that Roman history is still tucked into the village fabric.

River Ure and Canal Area

The riverside and canal stretch gives the case a scenic change of pace. It’s a good place for a careful picnic pause, with views towards the weir and Milby Island, though Detectives should stay alert near water and stick to safe paths.

Boroughbridge Town Centre

Boroughbridge itself is worth a little extra time, with shops, cafes, pubs and historic streets around the route. Horsefair was once part of the Great North Road, and the town’s old coaching history gives the whole place a pleasingly travelled-through feel.