Explore • Discover • Solve
Family scavenger hunt questions, answered.
Find clear answers about the Explorer Quest books, QR video challenges, routes, timing and how to plan a memorable family day out in the city.
Everything you need before your city adventure begins.
Planning your family city adventure
What is The Great Explorer Quest?
The Great Explorer Quest is a series of illustrated, self-guided city adventure books for families. Part scavenger hunt and part detective story, each quest asks you to explore real places, spot details, solve puzzles and follow QR video challenges with Snifflock the Dog Detective.
How is it different from an ordinary city walk?
You have a mystery to investigate together. The book gives your team a reason to look closer, discuss clues and make discoveries along the route. Illustrated characters and short videos connect the activities into a story, so children can take an active part in the day.
How do the QR video challenges work?
Read the mission and investigate the clue before choosing an answer. When a page offers A, B or C, scan the QR code beside your choice with your phone camera, open the link and press play. The video tells you how you got on. Follow the book’s instructions for any rewards and keep them for the finale.
Do we need a phone or an app?
Bring a charged smartphone with a camera that can scan QR codes and an internet connection for the videos. The video links open in your web browser. Your book leads the route and the activities; the phone adds short story moments along the way.
What should we bring?
Pack your quest book, a pen or pencil and a charged phone with mobile internet. Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water and a snack will help your team enjoy the adventure. A portable phone charger can be useful on a longer day out.
Who are the quests designed for?
The quests are designed for children and adults to explore together. Adults can help with reading and directions while younger explorers contribute observation, ideas and imagination. Check the details of your chosen edition for suitability, and accompany children throughout the route.
Do we need to know the city already?
No prior city knowledge is needed to enjoy looking for clues together. Follow the directions and activities in your book. First-time visitors can discover a new place, while local families can take a fresh look at familiar streets.
How long does a quest take, and can we pause?
Timing depends on your chosen route, your group’s walking pace and how long you spend on puzzles and breaks. These are self-guided adventures: stop for a snack, discuss a tricky clue or take photographs along the way. Check the route information in your edition before planning the rest of your day.
Which cities can we explore?
The collection introduces Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Stirling in Scotland, plus York, London and Bath in England. Each edition has its own setting and story. Compare the city quests to find an adventure for your next trip.
Are all editions available to buy?
The website introduces the collection while release dates, formats and purchase options are being confirmed. Check your chosen city page for its current details, or contact us about availability before planning a trip around an edition.
Are the routes suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Suitability depends on the individual route. Historic streets can include steps, slopes, cobbles and uneven surfaces. Check your edition’s route information and ask us about your access needs before purchasing if you need clarification.
What if a QR video will not play?
Check your internet connection, reopen the QR link and press play. If the link opened inside another app, try your usual phone browser. Look for the “Video not playing?” help on the video page. If you still need help, contact us with your city, mission number and a description of the problem.