St Katharine Docks - Tower of London
St Katharine Docks - Tower of London
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Treasure Hunt Trail
Treasure
Hunt
1.5 Hours
1.5 miles
Not
Accessible
Not
Accessible
Find the Missing Gem and Break the Pirate's Curse!
Centuries ago, Queen Matilda possessed a precious and powerful gem. To keep it safe, she hid it, but after her death, its location was forgotten. Many years later, the gem was discovered among the loot of the notorious pirate, Blackbeard. Fearing its mysterious powers, the Mayor of London had Blackbeard's crew executed and the gem hidden once again. But before their death, the pirates warned that anyone who tried to find the gem would be cursed.
Treasure Hunt Through St Katharine Docks and the Tower of London
Ahoy there, matey! Are you ready to embark on a self-guided treasure hunt through the treacherous St Katharine Docks and the infamous Tower of London? As you explore, you'll learn about the characters who were imprisoned in this feared fortress, sneak past the looming Traitor's Gate, and wander the vibrant dock area that used to handle luxury goods.
All while searching for the precious gem…
The Mayor of London needs your help to unearth the all-powerful gem with a fascinating history! Follow Blackbeard's treasure map and dig up the gem, but beware of the cursed pirates who may haunt you along the way. Good luck, treasure hunter!
The Details
- A self-guided treasure hunt walking Trail around St Katharine Docks and The Tower.
- Ideal for kids aged 6 - 106!
- 1.5-mile 'loop' Trail (takes 1.5 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 St Katharine Docks & the Tower Treasure Trail starts at:
Tower Hill
St Katharine's & Wapping
London
London
EC3N 4DR
England
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
Navigating The Route
This is a circular Treasure Hunt through St Katharine Docks, Tower Bridge and the area around the Tower of London, with explorers following pavements, quaysides, underpasses, gardens and historic walkways as they track down Queen Matilda's lost magical gem before Blackbeard's curse catches up with them.
The route includes several sets of steps, underpasses and changes in level, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
⚠️ Important: Parts of the quest take place beside docks, marina edges and the River Thames, so explorers should stay well back from the water, supervise younger adventurers closely and take note of nearby lifebuoys. Extra care is also needed around busy tourist areas, roads and crossing points.
Some clues along the route of this Trail are set in the riverfront area around the Tower of London, which is open every day except for between 24-26 December and 01 January. Click here to see the latest opening hours. You will not have to pay to enter anywhere to solve the clues.
Getting There
Time to gather your explorers and begin the search:
By car: The nearest parking is Tower Hill Coach & Car Park, 50 Lower Thames Street (EC3R 6DT), just a short walk from the start point. Alternative parking can be found at Minories Car Park, 1 Shorter Street (E1 8LP). The area is within London's Congestion Charging Zone.
By public transport: Your quest begins at Tower Hill Underground Station (EC3N 4DJ), which is served by the Circle and District lines. Tower Gateway DLR station is also nearby.
Your first clue awaits at the lower entrance and exit of Tower Hill Station above Trader's Gate, so step into position and start scanning for pirate evidence straight away.
Need the Loo?
Even the bravest explorers need a comfort break during a cursed treasure hunt! Public toilets can be found at St Katharine Docks near Clues 08 and 09, and later at Tower Hill near Clue 15, giving you a couple of handy opportunities to pause and regroup.
Bring Your Furry Sidekicks
Four-legged explorers are welcome on the quest 🐾
The adventure follows public streets, quaysides and walkways throughout. Just keep leads handy near busy roads, crowds and especially around the water's edge.
Food & Drink Stops
Treasure hunting is hungry work!
You'll find plenty of opportunities to pick up supplies throughout the route, particularly around St Katharine Docks where there are numerous cafés, restaurants and waterside eateries.
The historic Dickens Inn also makes a characterful stop for hungry adventurers during the middle section of the quest.
Want to Make a Day of It?
The Tower of London
One of Britain's most famous historic sites sits at the heart of this adventure. If time allows, explore nearly 1,000 years of royal history, ravens, armour and the Crown Jewels.
St Katharine Docks and the Marina
Hidden beside Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks is one of central London's most attractive waterside spots, packed with boats, restaurants and maritime history.
Tower Bridge and Riverside Views
Your quest passes beneath and beside one of London's most iconic landmarks. The surrounding riverside paths offer fantastic views across the Thames and the city skyline.
Picnic With The Pirates
If you've brought your own provisions, Trinity Square Gardens near the end of the Trail makes an ideal picnic stop while you compare notes and decide whether Blackbeard's curse has really been lifted.
