Fordingbridge - River Avon Banks

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Treasure Hunt around Fordingbridge River Avon Banks, with Explorers tracking Captain Diamond's stolen hoard near Fordingbridge and following the clues to uncover the remaining cache left by Sammy Swift.

The quest covers approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 1.5 hours to complete. You'll explore the town centre and riverbanks, following pavements, a bridge, a park, a courtyard and pedestrian crossings, with shops, Kings Court, the Town Hall, the Great Bridge, the Memorial Garden area and St Mary's Church all part of the adventure.

This Trail is wheelchair accessible and pushchair accessible. The route is now suitable for wheels because a kissing gate has been replaced with a more accessible gate. The walking is gentle with no slopes, although there is a slope down from the car park towards the shops at the start.

Cars drive along the section from the car park towards the shops, and several road crossings are needed along the route, so keep Mini Explorers close whenever the treasure hunt meets traffic.

Getting There

By car: Start at the main car park in the centre of the town, next to Kings Court (SP6 1HZ). Begin at the far corner of the car park, next to Kings Court.

By public transport: Make your way to the main car park in the centre of Fordingbridge, next to Kings Court, to begin the quest. The route is circular and finishes back near the car park.

Need the Loo?

Public toilets are available at the start and again in the area of Clue 06, giving your crew a handy comfort stop before or during the hunt.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

If your four-legged Explorers are joining the search, keep them close and under control throughout. 🐾

The route includes pavements, a bridge, a park, a courtyard, riverbank sections and several road crossings. Take extra care around traffic, near the River Avon and along the section from the car park towards the shops where cars drive through.

Food & Drink Stops

Treasure hunting beside the River Avon calls for supplies. There are chances to stop for refreshments and stock up on snacks along the route, with a toilet/cafe mentioned by the Memorial Garden area.

If you'd rather bring your own provisions, you can picnic in the park at Clue 06, which also has a play area for Mini Explorers with energy to burn.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Fordingbridge town centre

The Trail takes you around the village centre, with shops, courtyards, the Town Hall and other points of interest along the way. It's a short route with great river views and several places to pause for refreshments once Sammy Swift's trail has been properly followed.

The Great Bridge

The Great Bridge is a real Fordingbridge highlight. The first Great Bridge is upstream from the ford, was initially built in medieval times and is approximately 800 years old. Victorian restoration work widened the original construction, and it remains a major feature of the town - one of just two bridges in the UK with seven arches.

Memorial Garden and play area

In the park, the Memorial Garden sits between the toilets/cafe and the play area. With picnic space and somewhere for younger Explorers to let off steam, it's a natural spot to pause the treasure chase and enjoy the riverside park area.

St Mary's Church

The route continues towards St Mary's Church and around the churchyard, where clues point to tombs and memorials nearby. It's part of the town's historic core and a notable stop on the walk, especially for Explorers who like a little local history with their hidden hoards.