Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town through a 90-minute, self-guided treasure hunt that turns streets and stones into clues about Scotland’s fantastic creatures. Pick up a kit at Jeffrey Street, follow web-based puzzles across the Royal Mile, and claim a souvenir when you finish.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Cobblestones click underfoot as you step off Jeffrey Street and into a city that still remembers how to surprise you. This self-guided treasure hunt winds through the Old Town’s narrow closes and wider courts, asking you to read stone, statue and skyline for clues about the fantastic creatures that have populated Scottish folklore for centuries. The route follows much of the Royal Mile area and finishes about a ten-minute walk away in a tucked-away spot near the Grassmarket. The game borrows the city’s medieval layout—steep wynds, tight alleys and layered rooftops—to stage puzzles that link to legends from kelpies and selkies to lesser-known household spirits. Edinburgh’s geology is visible in the very fabric you walk on: volcanic rock underpins the ridge, and the compacted medieval streets are a living record of urban growth since the 12th century. Cultural color comes from shopfronts, churches and plaques that mark battles, books and lives that shaped Scotland. Practically: pick up your kit at Hot Toddy (15–19 Jeffrey St) during opening hours, carry a charged phone with data, and start near the Royal Mile in daylight—this game depends on web-based clues and readable signage. Expect about 1.5 hours of walking at an easy pace, with short stair sections and uneven cobbles. You’ll finish at a secret spot where you can claim a small souvenir back at the collection points. This is a low-impact, urban outdoor experience—bring a rain layer, sensible shoes and curiosity. The city will keep offering hints; you only need to keep your eyes open and your feet moving.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short urban walking with some stairs and cobbles; stroller-accessible for parts.
Wildlife
History
Edinburgh’s Old Town retains a medieval street plan built atop volcanic rock; its closes and wynds have been the stage for folklore and city life since the Middle Ages.
Conservation
Stick to pavements and marked paths, respect historic fabric and signage, and pack out any litter—these streets are fragile layers of urban history.
Reserve your spot on the Fantastic Creatures of Edinburgh, and where to find them! today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start in daylight
The digital clues and narrow alleys require good light—begin the hunt at least an hour before dusk.
Bring a charged phone with data
The game runs via your phone; a charged battery and mobile data make the experience smooth.
Wear sturdy shoes
Old Town cobbles and occasional stairs reward supportive footwear rather than flip-flops.
Watch the weather
Rain makes cobbles slippery and can affect signage—pack a lightweight waterproof layer.
Smartphone with internet
Required to access web-based clues and submit answers.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes help on uneven cobbles and short stair sections.
Light waterproof jacket
Edinburgh weather is changeable; a waterproof keeps you comfortable during rain.
fall
Portable charger / power bank
Useful to keep your phone powered for the whole hunt and photo-taking.