Ilkley - Town & Up On The Moor
Ilkley - Town & Up On The Moor
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Detective Mystery Trail
Detective
Mystery
2.5 Hours
2.4 miles
Not
Accessible
Not
Accessible
Dog
Friendly
The Mysterious Disappearance of Ike N'Damoore
The peaceful spa town of Ilkley has been thrown into chaos with the sudden disappearance of local author, Ike N'Damoore. His latest bestseller, Hatless!, was set to be made into a Hollywood blockbuster, promising fame and fortune for Ike. But now, he has been found lifeless in what police are calling 'his final chapter'.
Rumours are circulating that some locals were promised roles in the film, only to be snubbed at the last minute for Z-list celebrities. With the police making little progress, it's up to YOU, the top detectives, to take on this case and solve the mystery. Are you ready to walk this way and uncover the truth?
Mystery Moors Meddler Makes Movie Mischief!
Join in on the adventure with your family and friends on this self-guided detective mystery themed Treasure Trail through the town and up on the moor. As you follow the trail, keep an eye out for sneaky clues hidden on existing buildings, permanent features, and monuments. Can you solve the clues and eliminate the suspects to discover whodunit?
The trail starts at Ilkley train station and takes you up to White Wells House, offering stunning views of the town along the way. But be prepared for a steep climb before reaching the edge of the moor! Will you be able to solve the mystery and uncover the truth?
The Details
- A Detective Mystery themed walking Treasure Trail around Ilkley
- 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 2.4 miles long and takes 2.5 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 Ilkley - On the wild side Treasure Trail starts at:
Station Plaza
Station Road
Ilkley
LS29 8HF
Park in the main South Hawksworth car park:
South Hawksworth Street
Ilkley
LS9 9LA
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 investigation starts at the station but leaves Ilkley’s town centre behind, instead weaving through gardens and up onto Ilkley Moor. Detectives will be following pavements, footpaths and open moorland tracks as they hunt for vital evidence.
This is a more demanding route, with some steep hills, uneven paths and sections across open moorland. Ground conditions can become muddy in wet weather, and the moor is exposed to wind and rain, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are strongly recommended.
Getting There
The Trail starts at Ilkley Railway Station, Station Road (LS29 8HF) - ideal if you're arriving by train.
For parking, South Hawksworth Street Car Park (LS29 9LA) is the larger option just a short walk from the start.
Need the Loo?
Even top detectives need a comfort break during a long case! Public toilets can be found at South Hawksworth Street Car Park (LS29 9LA), and near White Wells (on the moor, around Clues 12–14).
Bring Your Furry Sidekicks
Four-legged detectives are welcome on the case 🐾 Dogs are allowed on Ilkley Moor, but must be kept on a lead from 1st March to 31st July to protect ground-nesting birds. Do also keep them under control near roads and livestock.
Food & Drink Stops
Best to plan your provisions carefully on this case! There are plenty of cafés and shops in the town centre before you head up onto the moor, but once you’re out on the investigation route, refreshment options are limited.
White Wells Spa Café (if open - the flag flying tells you it's open) offers drinks and light options, and the surrounding area makes a fantastic picnic spot with sweeping views across Ilkley. There’s also a picnic area at Darwin Gardens towards the end of the Trail.
Want to Make a Day of It?
Moorland Views & Wild Landscapes
Ilkley Moor is the star of this investigation, offering wide-open views, dramatic scenery and a real sense of adventure. On a clear day, the vistas across the valley are well worth the climb.
White Wells & Spa Heritage
White Wells is a quirky historic spot where visitors once came to “take the waters”. If the café is open, it’s a great place to pause… or even brave a very chilly dip!
Ancient Carvings & Scenic Detours
If you fancy extending your investigation, there’s an optional detour to the Swastika Stone, thought to be Yorkshire’s oldest rock carving, dating back to the Bronze Age. A fascinating extra for curious detectives.
