South Molton - Historic Market Town

PLEASE NOTE - Sniffer dogs are not allowed in the cemetery (Clues 8 & 9)

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Detective Mystery around the heart of South Molton, with sleuths following clues through the market town streets, churchyard, square and parkland to uncover who pinched Knitting Nancy’s prized cardigan collection.

The investigation covers approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 2 hours to complete. Detectives will be patrolling paved footpaths and town-centre streets throughout, with one long flight of steps adding a little extra legwork along the way.

This Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Although most of the route is on paved surfaces, the steps and some road crossings mean younger Detectives and canine colleagues should be kept close as the case unfolds.

Getting There

Time to gather your squad and start unravelling this woolly crime:

By car - The investigation begins outside The George Hotel on Broad Street (EX36 3AB), using ///flies.adjuster.uses.

Parking is available nearby in Sheep Pen Area car park (EX36 4BH) or Central car park (EX36 4AS). From there, make your way to The George to begin your inquiries.

By public transport - Make your way into South Molton town centre, then head for The George Hotel on Broad Street to begin the case.

Need the Loo?

Even the sharpest Detectives need a comfort break now and then. Public toilets can be found in the square beside the museum, so there is a handy place to pause while working your way around town.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Detectives can join most of the investigation 🐾

This route follows town streets, paved paths and churchyard areas, so keep dogs close and under control throughout. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the cemetery during the section around Clues 08 and 09, so police pooches will need to sit that part out with a member of the squad.

Food & Drink Stops

Tracking down a cardigan crook can make any squad feel peckish.

Refreshments and snacks can be found near the start of the Trail and again after Clue 12. If you have packed your own provisions, the park beyond Clue 08 makes a fine picnic stakeout while you compare suspect notes and keep an eye out for any loose threads.

Want to Make a Day of It?

South Molton Square and Museum Area

The route returns to the square several times, making it a natural hub for your investigation. With the museum and public facilities nearby, it is a handy place to pause, regroup and enjoy a little more of the town once the case is cracked.

Dart Park and Playground

The Trail heads towards Dart Park and the sports centre, giving Detectives a greener stretch in the middle of the investigation. It is a good family-friendly spot for a breather, a picnic or a quick run-around for Mini-Detectives.

St Mary Magdalene Church

A large part of the case unfolds in and around the churchyard of St Mary Magdalene. This is one of the most historic parts of the route, with intriguing memorials and the chance to look out for the unusual Green Man carving with leaves growing from his fingertips.