Donaghadee Town, Moat and Harbour
Donaghadee Town, Moat and Harbour
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Treasure Hunt Trail
Treasure
Hunt
2+ Hours
2.5 miles
Not
Accessible
Not
Accessible
Dog
Friendly
A Curious Case of Puffins, Plunder… and a Very Peculiar Teapot
Donaghadee's peaceful harbour hides a salty old secret...
Whispers of a long-lost vault, an eccentric salt-encrusted character known only as Captain Stewart "Soggy Boots" Browne and a suspiciously jam-stained treasure map have recently resurfaced thanks to a sharp-eyed local librarian. There are rumours of smugglers' gold, ghostly puffins and a Treasure Trail more tangled than seaweed in a storm.
But is it all local legend... or is there really glittering gold buried beneath Donaghadee's cobbles?
A Brilliant Day Out by the Sea
Leave the bustle of Belfast behind and head to the coast for an adventure packed with puzzles, piratey nonsense, and family-friendly fun. This self-guided Treasure Hunt Trail will lead you around Donaghadee's iconic sights - from the lighthouse and harbour to hidden corners and coastal views - all while unravelling a light-hearted mystery that's full of surprises.
It's the perfect daytrip for curious minds and seaside explorers alike. Just don't trust the puffins...
The Details
- A self-guided treasure hunt walking Trail around Donaghadee, County Down
- Ideal for kids aged 6 - 106!
- 2.5-mile 'loop' Trail (takes 2+ hours to complete at your own pace).
- Text message service with clues if you get stuck.
- Solve the quest and be entered into a £100 monthly draw.
- Learn more about where you live or explore somewhere new.
- Download your Trail now for instant fun (or receive your copy in the post)!
Trail Location
Trail Location
The Donaghadee Treasure Trail starts at:
The Commons car park
The Commons
Donaghadee
County Down
BT21 0JB
Northern Ireland
Free parking is available at The Commons car park
The Commons
Donaghadee
County Down
BT21 0JB
Northern Ireland
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?
Before You Set Off
Before You Set Off
Before You Set Sail on Your Donaghadee-vious Quest...
Easy to Navigate - This Trail follows a relatively flat route, with well-paved paths along the harbour and through the town centre. There is one short, steep section involving steps (at The Moat), so it's not ideal for pushchairs or wheelchairs - but it is perfect for adventurous families with a head for heights and a love of sea breezes!
Bring Your Furry First Mates - Four-legged adventurers are welcome aboard! There are plenty of good snuffling spots along the coastal path and green areas near The Commons. Just keep them on a lead around the harbour and alongside the busy roads in town - and away from any suspiciously haunted teapots.
Getting There - If using public transport, several bus services stop at the closest point to the start, which is at The Commons, Stop ID: 002539. You can see the latest arrivals here via Translink.
Need the Loo? - Facilities are available at:
The Commons car park - Right at the start of your adventure.
The Parade Public Conveniences - Located between Clues 06 and 07 (and then passed again later in your Trail between Clues 17 and 18). Both are open 08:00 - 19:00 from May to August (Summer) and 08:00 - 18:00 September to April (Winter). (Click here for more details)
Other Pit Stop Places - There are several pubs, cafés and shops along the High Street of the town that you'll pass through in the middle of your adventure.
Want to make a day of it?
The distillery you visit early in the Trail offers a fascinating journey into the creation of their spirits.
There are several exciting attractions a short distance from Donaghadee!
Mountstewart House and Gardens is a unique National Trust property that's a 15 minute drive away.
Castle Espie also offers a large and varied collection of ducks, geese and swans.
Eddie Irvine Sports is an indoor karting track and sports facility, perfect for all you adrenaline junkies!
