Oxford - City, Colleges & Castle
Oxford - City, Colleges & Castle
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Detective Mystery Trail
Detective
Mystery
2.5 Hours
2.3 miles
Accessible
Accessible
Dog
Friendly
The Mysterious Disappearance of Professor Gray Matter
Oxford University is in a right pickle! Professor Gray Matter, one of its most revered and eccentric scholars, has vanished without a trace. Known for his love of tweed suits and pickling everything from cucumbers to quantum theories, the professor has left a trail of clues that only the most curious detectives will be able to follow.
DCI Ellie Mentry and her team have been called in to investigate the disappearance of Professor Matter. With foul play suspected, it's up to YOU to help crack this academic mystery before it's too late.
Treasure Hunt Through Oxford
Future detectives, we need your help! This self-guided detective mystery will take you on a thrilling adventure through the heart of Oxford, exploring the winding backstreets around the famous colleges and uncovering hidden secrets about the city's fascinating history.
Your journey begins at Oxford University, where Professor Matter was last seen. As you follow the clues he left behind, you'll visit historic landmarks such as the Oxford Castle and the Bodleian Library, and learn about the city's quirky traditions and legendary figures.
Put your detective skills to the test and help us solve this curious case!
The Details
- A self-guided detective mystery walking Trail around Oxford.
- Ideal for kids aged 6 - 106!
- 2.3-mile 'loop' Trail (takes 2.5 hours to complete at your own pace).
- Text message service with clues if you get stuck.
- Solve the mystery 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)!
Know some fellow explorers? Share it.
Trail Location
Trail Location
The Oxford City and Castle Treasure Trail starts at:
Queen Street
Oxford
Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire
OX1 1DJ
England
Mini Detective Club
Mini Detective 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 off on your awesome adventure, there are a few things you need to know...
The Trail is friendly to both wheelchairs and pushchairs, although expect to negotiate some cobbles. A detour is detailed for one small section of the route without clues, for wheelchair users.
Bring your four-legged friends along! Please note that this is a busy city centre, so dogs will need to be kept on leads.
The closest long stay pay and display car parks to the Trail start point are at Westgate Centre (OX1 1TR) or Worcester Street (OX1 2BQ), just a five to ten minute walk away. Or why not try one of Oxford's fantastic Park and Ride services?
There are some fantastic events in Oxford's calendar, all of which are great times to visit this beautiful city. However, you may find that some of the clues on this Trail may become obstructed or difficult to access on these occasions. If you would like further information about event dates, please contact Oxford Visitor Information.
There are public toilets available in the middle of the Trail, and there is a myriad of cafes, restaurants, pubs and other eating establishments along the way, including several near the castle itself.
Why not make a day of it by visiting some of the fascinating attractions along the way, such as the Bodleian Library, one or more colleges and 'Oxford Castle Unlocked', where you can explore both the castle and mound. Or why not try one of our other Oxford Trails to uncover more twisting tales about this amazing city?
