Manchester Treasure Hunt: City Clues Game & Flexible Start

Summary

Manchester city walk with clues, stories and local surprises

You’ll wander Manchester’s streets solving cryptic clues at your own pace — no downloads needed, just your phone and curiosity. Expect laughs, odd discoveries, and plenty of “aha!” moments as Captain Bess guides your group with stories and maps. You’ll end up seeing the city through new eyes — maybe even spotting something you’ll want to revisit tomorrow.

What’s the experience like?

“Wait, is that the next clue?” I remember asking, half-laughing, as we hovered by some old brickwork near Deansgate. The city felt different when you’re squinting at shop windows for answers instead of just passing by — like you’re in on some secret joke with Manchester itself. Our phones pinged with another map from Captain Bess (that’s the digital guide running this treasure hunt), and suddenly we were off again, weaving between locals on their lunch breaks and a couple of pigeons who seemed to know more than us.

I didn’t expect to care about the little details — but there was this moment outside a bakery, the smell of warm bread mixing with rain on pavement, and one of us just stopped to guess a clue out loud. Got it wrong, obviously. Bess sent a gentle nudge (“Almost! Try again!”) and we all laughed. It’s weirdly satisfying when you finally get it right. The whole thing runs through your phone so you can go as slow or fast as you want; nobody rushing you if you want to grab coffee or just stare up at some mural for too long.

The best part? You notice things other people miss — like a carved face above a doorway or an old plaque about cotton traders I’d never seen before (and I’ve lived here three years). There’s no pressure; if you get stuck, hints are right there. And because it’s all outdoors and self-paced, we didn’t have to worry about crowds or schedules. I still think about that one clue near the canal — took us ages, but now every time I pass that spot it feels like an inside joke.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Flexible treasure hunt around Manchester

• Start treasure hunt on your phone
• Follow maps sent by Captain Bess
• Solve cryptic clues around city
• Spot hidden gems and shop windows
• Learn interesting facts and stories
• Ask for hints if needed
• Complete route at your own pace

Top questions

How does the Manchester treasure hunt work?

You receive maps and clues on your phone from Captain Bess, then follow them around Manchester solving puzzles at your own pace.

Do I need to download anything for the treasure hunt?

No downloads or printing needed; everything runs through a link sent to your group’s phones.

Is this treasure hunt suitable for families or groups?

Yes, it’s designed for groups of friends or families — you can share the game link with everyone in your group.

Can I start the Manchester treasure hunt at any time?

Yes, it’s fully flexible — start whenever suits you best.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What if we get stuck on a clue?

You can ask for hints directly in the game if you’re stuck.

Are there public transport options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the route.

What’s included

Your day includes a shareable link to access the treasure hunt game on everyone’s phones—no downloads required—so you can explore Manchester together at your own pace while receiving maps and clues from Captain Bess as you go along.