Taking a guided tour is often the go-to for sightseeing, but what if you could explore a city on your own terms, combining the thrill of a puzzle adventure with the charm of Exeter’s streets? That’s precisely what the Exeter: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game offers. Using the Go Quest Adventures app, this experience transforms typical sightseeing into a playful, interactive journey through one of Devon’s most historic cities.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s completely self-guided, meaning you can start whenever suits you—daylight hours are recommended for the best experience. Second, it’s affordable, costing just $39 for up to 5 participants, making it an excellent choice for families, friends, or small groups. Third, the game cleverly blends history, hidden gems, and a dash of mystery, offering both entertainment and education. The only possible downside? You’ll need your own smartphone and a bit of patience with puzzles, which might be more frustrating for younger kids or those less comfortable with tech.
This tour is perfect for adventurous couples, curious families, or groups of friends looking for a flexible, engaging activity. If you love exploring at your own pace and enjoy solving riddles, this experience promises a fun day out without the constraints of a traditional tour.
Good To Know
- Self-guided flexible schedule: Start when you want, go at your own pace.
- Cost-effective: Up to 5 people for $39, with children under 8 going free.
- Interactive puzzles: Combines walking with problem-solving—like an urban escape room.
- Historical & hidden gems: Includes landmarks, secret spots, and insider stories.
- Duration varies: Usually 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
- Weather considerations: Best enjoyed during daylight, so dress accordingly.
An In-depth Look at the Exeter City Walking Tour & Exploration Game
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What’s Included and How It Works
For $39, your group gains access to a self-guided adventure via the Go Quest Adventures app. You’ll explore Exeter’s main attractions and hidden corners, solving puzzles and completing challenges along the way. The app is straightforward—just download, unlock your code, and start whenever you’re ready, with no printed materials or on-site guide needed.
The activity offers a private experience for up to five players—a great way to keep it intimate and tailored. Children under 8 are included for free, making it family-friendly, though the puzzles require reading in English, so younger children or non-English speakers might find it more challenging.
The Route and Highlights
The route is approximately 2.3 miles long, weaving through the city’s streets, walls, and parks, ending in Northernhay Gardens. The tour cleverly makes use of Exeter’s historic features, including:
- The last witches hanged in England — a sobering yet fascinating chapter of local history.
- A medieval bridge that’s so forgotten many might never find it without the clues.
- The Britain’s narrowest street—a perfect photo op and fun fact.
- The iconic House That Moved, a quirky piece of Exeter’s architectural oddities.
Throughout, you’ll hear stories about Thousand-year-old walls, and “ghost stories” that might give you a shiver as you walk through the darkened streets. Several reviewers mention that the activity makes the city come alive, with one noting that “the puzzles kept us engaged and made us look at Exeter in a completely new way.”
What to Expect During Your Adventure
Once you start, you’ll be following clues that unlock the next part of your trail. Expect to walk through bustling streets, along historic walls, and past charming cafes—plenty of spots to pause and soak in the atmosphere.
The puzzles are designed to be interactive and fun, often requiring some quick thinking or a keen eye for detail. A reviewer mentioned that “the app took us to places we wouldn’t have discovered on our own,” which is exactly the point—this isn’t just a map, but a journey into Exeter’s secret corners.
You might encounter challenges related to local history, riddles referencing landmarks, or challenges requiring you to spot specific details in the scenery. Since the app records your points, you can compete against other teams or just aim to finish at your own pace.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPractical Considerations
- Start whenever you want: Flexibility is a major plus, especially if your plans change.
- Weather: Since it’s outdoors, good weather makes a big difference. Rain might make puzzles trickier and walking less comfortable.
- Time needed: Most groups finish within 2.5 to 3.5 hours, but you’re free to take longer or shorter, stopping for breaks, snacks, or shopping.
- Preparation: Bring comfortable shoes, a charged smartphone, and a pen to jot down clues or notes.
- Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
Authentic Experiences & Insider Tips
One reviewer shared that “the app made it feel like a treasure hunt,” adding that the challenges are well-crafted and make exploring Exeter more engaging than a simple walk. Others appreciated that it’s private and customizable, perfect for families with kids or small groups who want a tailored experience.
Interestingly, some found the puzzles to be “a bit tricky,” so if you’re doing this with kids or less puzzle-inclined friends, be prepared for some head-scratching moments. The app is only available in English, which might be a barrier for non-English speakers or those less confident in their reading skills.
The Value of This Tour
Compared to traditional guided walks, this experience offers vastly more flexibility. You’re not tied to a group schedule, and you get to choose your pace. For just $39, five people can enjoy a personalized, puzzle-filled exploration that covers both well-known sites and hidden secrets.
While you won’t have a guide on-site, the app’s storytelling and clues bring Exeter’s history alive, and the opportunity to stop for coffee or sightseeing along the way makes it highly adaptable.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This activity is ideal for families wanting a fun day out, especially if you have children over 8 who can read and enjoy puzzles. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups of friends who appreciate a mix of history and playful challenge. If you’re visiting Exeter for the first time and want a more personal, immersive experience, this tour offers a creative alternative to traditional sightseeing.
Active travelers will appreciate the walking nature of the tour and the chance to discover hidden corners usually missed by standard tours. Those seeking a cost-effective activity will find the price quite reasonable for the amount of engagement and exploration it offers.
On the flip side, if you prefer guided commentary and structured tours, this might not be your best fit. Similarly, if bad weather dampens your plans, consider rescheduling for a sunnier day to maximize enjoyment.
FAQs
Do I need any special equipment for this tour?
Yes, you will need a smartphone with the Go Quest Adventures app downloaded and your redeemed code. A pen and paper are recommended for puzzles.
Can I start the tour at any time?
Absolutely, you can start whenever you want, as long as it’s during daylight hours for the best experience.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 are free, but the puzzles require reading in English, so it’s best for children over 8 who can follow the clues and enjoy the challenges.
How long does the tour usually take?
Most groups finish in about 2.5–3.5 hours, but you can take longer if you wish, stopping for breaks or exploring further.
Are there any attractions included in this tour?
The tour takes you past notable landmarks, but entry into attractions is not included. You may visit some sites along the way, but the focus is on exploration and puzzles.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
Can I do this tour alone?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 5 people, so it’s perfect for small groups or solo travelers wanting a personalized experience.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is the experience suitable during winter months?
It’s best during daylight and good weather. In colder months, ensure you’re dressed warmly and comfortable, as it’s an outdoor activity.
To sum it up, the Exeter City Walking Tour & Exploration Game offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and flexibility. It’s a fantastic choice for those who enjoy solving puzzles while discovering a city’s hidden stories. With its private, self-paced format, it appeals to travelers who prefer a personalized experience without the constraints of scheduled group tours. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on your own, this activity promises an engaging day out in one of England’s most charming cities.
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