If you're an adventure lover or history enthusiast, then our Mystery Guides treasure hunt for The Gunpowder Snitch in York is a must-try!

It’s the perfect blend - the thrill of an outdoor escape room and a historical detective story. This interactive adventure will take you on a city tour around York's streets, revealing hidden gems and secrets tied to the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

The Historical Significance of November 5th

November 5th is known for fireworks and bonfires, but it also marks the failed Gunpowder Plot, where Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. This day is a key moment in British history, it represents political and religious tensions of the time.

The real-life Gunpowder Plot remains shrouded in mystery, with one of its greatest enigmas being the Monteagle letter - the anonymous note that exposed the conspiracy.

To this very day, no one knows who wrote the letter. But with the York Mystery Guides treasure hunt you’ll dive into this dramatic piece of history - will you uncover hidden stories and solve the ultimate question: Who betrayed Guy Fawkes?

Discover York’s Rich History

York is a city that is rich in history and it’s the perfect backdrop for our Mystery Guides scavenger hunt, where you can uncover the story behind the Gunpowder Plot and discover the reasons behind Guy Fawkes’ involvement.

From the iconic York Minster to the mediaeval Shambles, you’ll see York’s landmarks come to life as you embark on your adventure trail.

How the Adventure Works

Before you start, you'll receive a detailed adventure book complete with treasure hunt clues for adults, maps, and riddles that will help to guide you on your journey.

Your challenge is to uncover the mystery behind The Gunpowder Snitch - a story about an anonymous figure who foiled Guy Fawkes’ plot just before it unfolded.

The 2-mile city tour around York is a mix of historical discovery and puzzle-solving, suitable for adventurers of all ages. The scavenger hunt is self-paced, making it a super flexible activity for families, friends and solo adventurers.

Unravelling the Mystery

The central puzzle of the treasure hunt is The Gunpowder Snitch.
Just before Fawkes tried to ignite the gunpowder, an anonymous letter, known as the monteagle letter, alerted the authorities, ultimately preventing disaster.

Your Mystery Guides challenge is to uncover the identity of the mysterious figure who foiled the plot.

Why York?

As well as being Guy Fawkes’ birth city, York’s history and atmosphere make it the ideal location for this treasure hunt.

The scavenger hunt brings local legends, stunning architecture, and rich history to life, making it a really exciting way to explore the city.

The Final Reveal

Once you've cracked all the treasure hunt clues for adults, the treasure trail culminates in an amazing grand reveal.

Those that took part can come together to share their findings, celebrate their success, and uncover the truth behind The Gunpowder Snitch.

The Scavenger Hunt for The Gunpowder Snitch is more than just a treasure trail, it’s a fun and educational journey into the history of York’s, offering a chance to experience history in an exciting new way.