If you’re looking for a way to experience London’s charming canals without the usual crowds or guided tour pressure, the Little Venice London: Journey Through Lost Memories Quest might catch your eye. It’s a solo, self-paced adventure that combines a bit of puzzle-solving with sightseeing, offering a unique twist on exploring this picturesque neighborhood.
What we really like about this experience is how flexible it is—you can start whenever you want and pause as often as needed, even spreading it out over multiple days if that suits your mood. Plus, it’s completely offline, which means no data worries or GPS dependency. On the flip side, since it’s purely a game without a physical guide, it might not be the best choice if you’re craving in-depth storytelling or guided insights.
This tour suits those who enjoy a bit of independence, love discovering hidden spots, and don’t mind relying on puzzles to navigate. If you’re traveling light, want something affordable, and appreciate the chance to explore at your own pace, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re after a more traditional sightseeing experience with a guide’s voice in your ear, this might not be your cup of tea.
Key Points

- Self-Guided & Flexible: Start anytime, take breaks, and spread it over multiple days.
- Offline Play: No internet connection needed, perfect for travel.
- Unique Learning: Discover fun facts about Little Venice and Regent’s Canal beyond typical guidebooks.
- Private & Safe: No human contact, making it ideal for those preferring solitude or avoiding crowds.
- Affordable Price: At just over $9 per person, it offers good value for an hour or so of entertainment.
- Group Discounts Available: If you’re traveling with others, check for savings.
What to Expect from the Little Venice Puzzle Tour

From a practical standpoint, this experience is a game-based exploration designed to be both fun and informative. We’ll walk through what each part of the tour involves, what you’ll see, and how it feels to take this route through one of London’s most pretty neighborhoods.
Planning more time in London? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point: Warwick Avenue

The adventure kicks off at Warwick Avenue, a calm spot with easy access to public transportation. Here, you’ll download the app, which contains all your clues and puzzles—no need for internet once you’re set up. The initial puzzle involves following a clue to reach Little Venice itself, which is known for its scenic canals, narrowboats, and quaint cafés.
The first stop, Little Venice, is roughly a 30-minute segment of your journey. You’ll get clues to find your way there, and once you arrive, you’ll be handed indications to continue your game. This approach means you’re not just passively sightseeing—you’re actively engaging with the environment, deciphering puzzles, and learning stories about the area.
The Charm of Little Venice
This neighborhood is often described as London’s prettiest canal area. As you navigate, you’ll get to see the narrowboats and waterside cafes that give the area its distinctive ambiance. It’s easy to imagine why it’s often called the “Venice of London.”
One reviewer, Emma R., mentioned, “Amazing walk around a part of London I had no idea even existed!!” Her comment highlights how this tour can open your eyes to hidden corners of the city. Plus, the fact that the whole experience is self-guided means you can pause to soak in the views or take photos whenever something catches your eye.
Learning Along the Way
The tour isn’t just about solving puzzles; it also delivers tidbits about the area’s history and features. For instance, you’ll learn about Regent’s Canal and its fascinating story—details that would often be missed in typical sightseeing. It’s a fun way to get a feel for the neighborhood’s past without a formal guide talking at you.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
- London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs
- Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London
- Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour
- Original Harry Potter Locations Tour – Guided Tour of London
- Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London
- London Jack the Ripper Guided Tour with Ripper-Vision
Stop 1: Little Venice
Once you arrive at Little Venice, the game guides you to explore the area at your leisure. You’ll receive clues to follow, leading you to other points of interest, parks, or perhaps a cozy café. The entire first stop takes about 30 minutes, during which you’re encouraged to look around and enjoy the scenery.
One review mentions, “The tour was more of a game, and it was all in our phones, which meant that if we had done it ‘correctly,’ we would have been standing around reading long passages awkwardly in front of homes, businesses, and parks all throughout Little Venice.” This confirms that the experience is very much about the journey—sometimes the clues might lead you in circles or to quiet streets, but that’s part of the charm.
This stop is free to access, and since it involves puzzles and clues, it adds an interactive layer to what might otherwise be a passive walk.
Continuing the Adventure
After exploring Little Venice, the app provides new clues to guide you to your next destination. You can stop and resume at any time, which is ideal if you want to break it into smaller chunks or take your time. The flexibility might be especially appealing if you’re visiting during a busy day or want a relaxed pace.
The End Point
The tour concludes at 1A Sheldon Square, giving you the chance to wrap up your exploration and perhaps continue wandering around the area on your own. Many say that the real joy is in the discovery—the hidden stories, quiet streets, and picturesque views that pop up unexpectedly.
The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences
One of the highest praises from users was for the stunning views and how well the puzzles fit into the neighborhood’s atmosphere. As Emma R. said, “Well put together, easy to follow, and loved having to solve the clues.” We agree that this makes the experience engaging and enjoyable for those who like a bit of brainwork alongside sightseeing.
However, not every review is glowing. Rebecca J. pointed out, “The tour was more of a game, and it was all in our phones, which meant that if we had done it ‘correctly,’ we would have been standing around reading long passages awkwardly in front of homes, businesses and parks all throughout Little Venice.” This suggests that some might find the game format less than ideal if they prefer guided commentary or want to hear stories from a person.
There’s also a mention from Saida A. that the location details on the website seemed off and that the experience felt like a scam. That seems to be an isolated incident, but it highlights the importance of double-checking your booking and confirming the meeting point.
Is It Worth the Price?

At $9.25 per person, this experience offers decent value, especially when you consider the amount of interaction, exploration, and learning involved. The fact that it’s private and flexible means you’re not paying for a large group or a scheduled guided tour. It’s a budget-friendly way to turn a walk through Little Venice into an engaging adventure.
If you’re someone who loves discovering hidden stories and enjoying a slow walk at your own pace, this tour covers all those bases. The ability to start anytime and take breaks adds to its appeal, especially for travelers balancing sightseeing with relaxation.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for independent travelers who are comfortable using apps and puzzles to explore. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer to avoid large groups or guided tours. If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, and want to discover a London neighborhood in a different way, this can be a refreshing option.
People who enjoy historical tidbits and scenic walks will find plenty to love. However, if you’re looking for a traditional guided experience with stories told by a person, or you want a more structured tour, you might want to seek other options.
Final Thoughts
The Little Venice London: Journey Through Lost Memories Quest offers a unique, self-directed way to explore this charming part of London. Its main strengths are flexibility and privacy, making it a good choice for travelers who want control over their pace and experience. The inclusion of puzzles adds a playful twist to sightseeing, making it more interactive than a simple walk.
While it may not appeal to everyone—especially those who prefer guided commentary or a more straightforward sightseeing route—it provides a memorable way to discover hidden corners and stories of Little Venice. For those who enjoy solving puzzles and wandering at a relaxed pace, it can turn an ordinary neighborhood stroll into a personal adventure.
Overall, if you like the idea of exploring on your own terms, want to avoid crowds, and enjoy a bit of mental exercise along the way, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for some puzzles to guide your route, and remember it’s all about the journey, not just the destination.
Little Venice London: Journey Through Lost Memories Quest
“A good experience. It gave you quite a bit of detail about Little Venice with you playing a game at the same time”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is mostly puzzle-based and meant for independent exploration, children who enjoy solving riddles and walking around scenic neighborhoods should find it engaging. There’s no mention of specific age restrictions, but younger kids might need extra help with the puzzles.
How long does the tour take?
The main part at Little Venice takes approximately 30 minutes, but since you can start, stop, and spread it out, it can be completed in an hour or stretched over multiple days.
Do I need an internet connection?
No, you do not need internet or GPS to play the game. You just download the app in advance, making it ideal for travel situations where data may be limited.
Where do I start the tour?
The starting point is Warwick Avenue, London. The app will guide you from there, and you’ll follow clues to explore Little Venice.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private experience for your group only. There’s no human guide involved.
What if I encounter issues or the location is incorrect?
Some reviews mention mismatched locations, but the company states that the experience is always available and functional. If you run into problems, reaching out via email is recommended.
How much does it cost?
The tour costs $9.25 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the amount of self-paced exploration involved.
Is there a recommended group size?
Since it’s a private tour, it’s designed for your group only. Larger groups won’t get additional discounts, but it’s flexible for small parties or families.
Exploring Little Venice with this puzzle-based, self-guided tour can be a delightful change from typical sightseeing. It’s best suited for curious, independent travelers who enjoy uncovering hidden stories and taking their time. Just be ready for some brain-teasing clues and scenic strolls—your own little adventure awaits.
More Tour Reviews in London
- Espionage in London Private Tour with Churchill War Rooms Secrets
- Wimbledon Tennis & Westminster Landmarks Walking Tour
- Discover London with your Executive Minivan Hire with Driver
- Kent, the Garden of England Independent Full Day Private Tour
- Heathrow Airport to Southampton Transfers
- London Tour Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Optional Thames River cruise
More London experiences we've covered
- Espionage in London Private Tour with Churchill War Rooms Secrets
- Wimbledon Tennis & Westminster Landmarks Walking Tour
- Discover London with your Executive Minivan Hire with Driver
- Kent, the Garden of England Independent Full Day Private Tour
- Heathrow Airport to Southampton Transfers
- London Tour Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Optional Thames River cruise
- Secrets of Central London Walking Tour with English Guide
- Lost Churches of the City Walking Tour
- Captivating Moments at Millennium Bridge Professional Photoshoot
- Secrets of the London Underground Small Group Walking Tour
- London Theatre: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
- Private The Beatles Taxi Tour in London


