Sidmouth - Esplanade & Ladder
Sidmouth - Esplanade & Ladder
Couldn't load pickup availability
Detective Mystery Trail
Detective
Mystery
2 Hours
1.5 miles
Accessible
Accessible
The Mystery of the Strange Stars - Can YOU Solve the Clues?
The scientific community was abuzz with excitement when renowned astronomer Dr Mal Keyway and his apprentice Luna Gazer announced they had discovered strange stars popping up in our galaxy. But just hours before their press conference, tragedy struck - they were found slumped in their observatory! With no witnesses and a void of information, the police have turned to YOU - our top detectives - to crack the case.
A Detective Mystery Through Sidmouth
Join the investigation and explore the charming seaside town of Sidmouth on this self-guided detective themed Treasure Trail. Starting at the Tourist Information Centre, you'll follow the trail through the town's Regency-style buildings, the beautiful Connaught Gardens, the historic cricket ground, and the impressive parish church.
As you solve the sneaky clues set on existing buildings, permanent features, and monuments, you'll eliminate suspects and unravel the mystery of who or what caused the tragedy at the observatory. And don't forget to take in the stunning views from the top of Jacob's Ladder - your reward for conquering the steep climb.
The town is counting on YOU to solve the clues and piece together the evidence. Are YOU up for the challenge?
The Details
- A Detective Mystery themed walking Treasure Trail around Sidmouth
- Ideal for discovering more about where you live or exploring somewhere new
- Trails are done in your own time at your own pace
- This Trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and takes 2 hours to complete
- This Trail is suitable for all ages from 6 - 106 (no children necessary!)
- One Trail booklet is enough for 4-5 people
- Chance to win some real Treasure! All correct answers are entered into the monthly £100 prize draw
- Circular loop Trail
- Mobile phone text service for clue answers if you get stuck, ensuring that no mystery goes unsolved
- This Trail can be sent to you in the post or downloaded today for instant Trailing fun!
Trail Location
Trail Location
The Sidmouth Treasure Trail starts at:
York Street
Sidmouth
Devon
Devon
EX10 8XR
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
Navigating The Route
This is a circular Detective Mystery through Sidmouth’s town centre, seafront, Connaught Gardens and parkland, with sleuths following pavements, pathways and garden routes as they piece together clues in this curiously cosmic case.
The investigation includes steps, uneven paths and a steep climb up Jacob’s Ladder into Connaught Gardens, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
⚠️ Important: You will be travelling along busy roads, seafront paths and areas close to the beach and open water, so detectives should use crossings where available, stay alert at all times and keep younger team members under close supervision.
Take extra care on the steep sections and steps, and note that the coastal path may be affected by rough sea conditions. An alternative route via the road is available if needed.
Getting There
Time to assemble your squad and open the case file:
By car: There is plenty of parking near the Swimming Pool and Tourist Information Centre on York Street (EX10 8XR), your recommended starting point.
By public transport: Sidmouth is served by local bus routes, with stops close to the town centre and start location.
Your investigation begins near the Tourist Information Centre / Swimming Pool on York Street - so step into position, gather your evidence kit and start scanning for your first clue straight away.
Need the Loo?
Even top detectives need a comfort break during a long case!
Toilets can be found near Clue 12 along the route, giving you a well-timed opportunity to pause, regroup and review your case notes mid-investigation.
Bring Your Furry Sidekicks
Four-legged detectives are welcome on the case.
With a mix of town streets, gardens and seafront paths, it’s a great outing for canine companions - just keep leads handy near roads, crowds and cliffside areas.
Food & Drink Stops
Cracking this case is hungry work!
There are plenty of opportunities to grab refreshments in town before Clue 06 and again after Clue 12, making it easy to refuel as your investigation unfolds.
If you prefer, there are great spots for a picnic at The Ham play area, along the seafront or within Connaught Gardens (around Clues 07-09).
Want to Make a Day of It?
Seafront Views and Coastal Drama
Sidmouth’s sweeping coastline provides a striking backdrop to your investigation, with red cliffs and sea views adding a touch of drama to your casework.
Connaught Gardens and Elevated Views
The climb up Jacob’s Ladder rewards you with fantastic views and a peaceful stretch of the Trail - perfect for regrouping before pressing on.
Curious History and Local Legends
From Napoleonic defences to tales of dragons in the Sid Valley, Sidmouth is packed with stories - ideal for a mystery where the truth has been hiding in plain sight.
