The Hunt for the Cheshire Cat by HiddenCity

If you’re looking for a way to turn your typical sightseeing into a playful adventure, the Hunt for the Cheshire Cat by HiddenCity promises just that. This self-guided, mobile-based treasure hunt takes you on a whimsical journey through parts of London many visitors and even locals might not have explored before. It mixes puzzles, clues, and a touch of storybook magic, making it ideal for independent travelers, bookworms, or anyone craving a more interactive experience.

What we love about this tour is how it transforms a walk around London into an engaging challenge—you’ll be solving riddles, searching for secret spots, and experiencing the city in a totally different light. Plus, the flexibility to pause and take breaks wherever you like means you can tailor the adventure to your pace. But, a word of caution: this isn’t for anyone who prefers straightforward sightseeing or isn’t comfortable with puzzles. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of mental stimulation and are okay with outdoor exploration. If that sounds like your kind of day, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Self-guided and flexible—you can pause and resume whenever you want.
• Interactive puzzles and riddles keep the experience engaging and challenge your brain.
• Unique London sights include landmarks, trendy stores, and hidden gems.
• Ideal for groups and families—split into teams for fun competition or solo for a personal challenge.
• Cost-effective at around $40 per person, offering a memorable, game-like experience.
• Suitable for most travelers, with confirmation and easy access near public transportation.

An In-Depth Look at the “Hunt for the Cheshire Cat” Experience

How the Tour Works in Practice

This tour isn’t your average walk through London; it’s a treasure hunt-style game that lasts about 3 to 4 hours. Once you book, you receive a mobile ticket, and the adventure begins at The Coal Hole on Strand, a central and accessible starting point. From there, your phone will deliver clues, riddles, or challenges that guide you across London. Think of it as a playful scavenger hunt, where each stop is a stepping stone in the story of the Cheshire Cat and Alice’s adventures.

Participants form teams of 2-6 players, which makes it perfect for friends, families, or even colleagues looking for a fun team-building day. If you’re a larger group, splitting into smaller teams adds a competitive edge that many reviews highlight as a highlight. The game is designed to be interactive and creative, with clues arriving via WhatsApp messages or calls, and some challenges involving envelopes, books, or other tangible items.

The Itinerary and Stops

The adventure spans central London, moving through areas that are sometimes overlooked but packed with character. The start point, The Coal Hole, is known for its lively atmosphere and convenient location near public transport options, making it easy to reach. The journey then unfurls across the city, with clues leading you to landmarks, quirky shops, and inviting eateries. While the exact locations aren’t listed, reviewers mention discovering “parts of London you wouldn’t otherwise see,” which hints at a mix of well-known and hidden spots.

One of the key benefits is the ability to pause the game for food or drinks at pre-planned break points, allowing for a relaxed pace. The tour ends at Waterloo, giving you ample opportunity to explore further or head back to your accommodation.

What Makes It Special? The Clues and Challenges

Reviews rave about the quality of the clues—they are both clever and cryptic without being impossible. Some reviews mentioned the challenges being “mind-boggling,” but always achievable with a bit of thought. The inclusion of envelopes, books, and other tactile clues keeps the experience tactile and engaging.

Participants often mention how the clues add a layer of storytelling, making the experience feel immersive rather than just a scavenger hunt. One reviewer described it as feeling like being at a Mad Hatter’s tea party in Wonderland—a testament to how well the theme is executed.

The Social Element and Group Dynamics

Playing in teams adds a fun, competitive streak, but it’s also inclusive for solo explorers who want to challenge themselves. Many reviews highlight how the experience is great for families and friends, and that everyone stays engaged, even the teens. The flexibility of the game means you can spend more time at favorite spots or skip some clues if you’re running out of energy or time.

Price and Value

At around $40.62 per person, the price seems reasonable considering it’s not just a walk but an interactive experience. It’s a good deal when you factor in the entertainment, the discovery of new parts of London, and the fun of solving puzzles. Reviewers consistently mention how it’s a worthwhile activity that adds a different dimension to sightseeing.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour operates Monday to Friday, from noon to 6 pm, and requires a UK, US, or CA mobile phone number. It’s designed to be most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Since it’s self-guided, you won’t need a guide or group, but the customer service has been praised for being friendly and helpful if you need assistance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who love puzzles and stories. It suits those who enjoy a bit of mental stimulation and don’t mind walking around the city for a few hours. It’s a good choice for families with older children (the references to engaging teens are positive), groups of friends, and solo travelers who enjoy gamified sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, traditional tour with a guide, this isn’t it. But if you want to see London in a playful way and discover parts of the city you’d never stumble upon alone, it’s a perfect fit. It also works well as a break from conventional sightseeing or as a unique date idea.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

All in all, the Hunt for the Cheshire Cat offers a refreshing twist on exploring London. It’s a well-organized, creative activity that appeals to those who enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and a bit of playful competition. The reviews reinforce how much fun people have—many say it’s “brilliant,” “fantastic,” and “highly recommended,” especially when you want your sightseeing to feel more interactive.

The price is fair for the experience you get, and the ability to go at your own pace makes it flexible for different schedules. While it’s not for everyone—particularly those who prefer guided tours or don’t like puzzles—it’s an experience that will delight those who want an active and memorable day in the city.

In short, if you’re after a quirky, immersive way to see London, this treasure hunt could be one of your favorites. It’s perfect for curious explorers, puzzle lovers, and anyone ready to add a touch of whimsy to their trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour take?
Expect about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how quickly you solve clues and take breaks.

Is it suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the game is engaging for older children and teens who enjoy puzzles. It’s especially fun if they love storybooks or riddles.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
You only need a mobile phone with a UK, US, or CA number, and your booking confirmation. No extra prep required.

Can I pause the game during the tour?
Yes, the experience allows you to pause and resume at your convenience, making it adaptable to your pace.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the self-guided game experience. You’ll need to cover your own expenses for food and drinks at break points.

Is the tour guided?
No, it’s self-guided. You follow clues sent to your phone and explore independently or in teams.

Are transportation options nearby?
Yes, the starting point is near public transportation, making it easy to get to and from the tour.

What if I need help during the experience?
The provider’s friendly customer service is available if you encounter issues, and the setup is straightforward.

If you’re craving a playful way to see London and enjoy some brain-teasing fun, the Hunt for the Cheshire Cat by HiddenCity might just be your next favorite adventure.