If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Burton upon Trent, this Operation City Quest scavenger hunt might just be what you need. It promises a blend of fun, discovery, and a little bit of friendly competition—all from the comfort of your smartphone. While it’s not a traditional tour with historical guides, it offers a different kind of engaging experience that can turn a simple stroll into an adventure.
What drew us in initially are the affordability and flexible format. At just over $11 per person, you get about two hours of entertainment, including a remote guide who keeps things lively and on track. Another aspect that appeals to many is the interactive app, which makes the activity accessible and easy to follow, even for those who prefer a self-led experience. But, naturally, it’s worth considering that this isn’t a traditional sightseeing tour—there’s no built-in transportation, and you’ll need your own smartphone and some walking to make the most of it.
This activity suits travelers who love a mix of outdoor exploration and puzzle-solving. It’s especially good if you’re after a casual, budget-friendly way to see the city through a different lens. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy games, riddles, or just discovering offbeat spots, this is likely to be a hit. However, if you’re after a detailed historical narrative or guided commentary, this setup might seem a bit light on context.
Key Points

- Affordable fun at just over $11 per person for a 2-hour adventure
- Interactive app with nearly 120 objects and challenges to keep you engaged
- Remote guide support offers hints, encouragement, and assistance if needed
- Flexible exploration that’s suitable for most walkers and travelers with smartphones
- No transportation included, so you’ll need to plan your own way around
- A playful way to discover Burton upon Trent beyond typical sightseeing
What is Operation City Quest?

This scavenger hunt uses an app to guide you through Burton upon Trent while you seek out nearly 120 objects and complete fun challenges. Instead of a traditional tour, you’re given riddles and clues that lead you around the city’s streets, encouraging you to look at your surroundings differently. The app assigns points based on the difficulty of each item or challenge, and your goal is to score as many points as possible and climb the leaderboard.
The beauty of this setup is the interactive nature. You don’t just walk around aimlessly—you’re actively solving riddles, hunting for specific objects, and performing challenges. Along the way, you’ll send photos of your finds to score points, making the experience more tangible and engaging. The app’s categories span different themes, so your scavenging might involve finding historic signs, quirky objects, or hidden landmarks.
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The Role of the Remote Guide

One of the standout features here is the remote guide who stays in touch via text. This person isn’t physically there but acts as your virtual assistant, offering hints, encouragement, and support when needed. It’s a reassuring touch for those new to scavenger hunts or unfamiliar with the city. From reviews, we know this guide support adds a layer of friendliness and helps keep the game flowing smoothly.
The Itinerary and the Experience
The starting point is conveniently located at 12 Market Pl, Burton upon Trent, and the activity wraps up back at this same spot, making logistics straightforward. Over the approximate two hours, you’ll explore various parts of the downtown area, uncovering points of interest and quirky objects. Because the activity is private, it’s tailored to your group’s pace, making it suitable for friends, couples, or small groups.
Participants can expect to solve riddles, find items based on clues, and perform challenges that could range from taking a picture with a specific sign to mimicking a local landmark. The variety of challenges keeps things lively and prevents the experience from becoming monotonous. Plus, the leaderboard element spurs a bit of friendly competition—especially if you’re with a group.
Pricing and Value

At just over $11 per person, this activity offers a lot of value for the price. When compared to traditional guided tours, which can be pricier and more rigid, this scavenger hunt provides flexibility and a fun challenge on a budget. For two hours of entertainment, with the added bonus of a remote guide, it’s a cost-effective way to get a different perspective on Burton.
The experience includes all activities, fees, and taxes, so there are no hidden costs to worry about. However, it’s important to remember that your own smartphone and transportation are not included. You’ll want to be prepared to walk around and have your device charged.
The Setting and Visuals

While Burton upon Trent is primarily known for its brewing heritage, this activity encourages you to look beyond the obvious. The game’s riddles and photo challenges will lead you to various spots around the city—some well-known, others perhaps less so. We imagine that you’ll enjoy the process of discovering small details that might otherwise go unnoticed, like historic signs, local shops, or quirky statues.
From the reviews, one visitor shared, “I saw the name Burton-on-Trent on a Carling glass and was overwhelmed with a sense of inspiration, home, and belonging.” That feeling of connection to a place, combined with the quirky fun of a scavenger hunt, makes this a memorable way to spend a couple of hours.
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Who Will Love This?

This scavenger hunt is ideal for adventurers, casual explorers, or groups wanting a break from conventional sightseeing. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy puzzles, games, or just exploring cities through interactive challenges. It’s also perfect if you’re on a budget, as it offers a lot of entertainment for just over $11 each.
If you’re traveling with friends or family and want a shared experience that’s lighthearted and interactive, this will likely suit you well. However, if you’re after expert historical commentary or a more structured tour, you might prefer a traditional guided walk instead.
Final Thoughts

This Operation City Quest scavenger hunt is a clever way to see Burton upon Trent from a different angle. With its engaging app, friendly remote guide, and fun challenges, it offers a playful alternative to conventional sightseeing. The activity’s relatively low price makes it accessible, and the focus on exploration combined with a leaderboard adds a competitive spark.
For those who enjoy solving riddles, discovering hidden spots, or simply want a fun, interactive way to pass a couple of hours, this experience delivers. It’s especially suited for groups who are comfortable walking around and using a smartphone. It’s not a deep dive into the city’s history, but for lighthearted fun and casual discovery, it hits the mark.
If you’re visiting Burton upon Trent and looking for a unique way to make your visit memorable, this scavenger hunt can be a highlight—whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends.
Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt – Burton upon Trent, UK
“I saw the name burton-on-trent on a carling glass and was overwhelmed with the sense of inspiration, home and belonging”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the game involves solving riddles and taking photos, which most kids will enjoy. However, younger children should be supervised and able to walk around.
What do I need to participate?
You’ll need your own smartphone with internet access. The activity doesn’t include a device, so be sure your battery is charged.
Does the activity include transportation?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to walk or use your own transport to move between locations.
How long does the scavenger hunt last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.
Where does the activity start and end?
It starts and ends at the same location: 12 Market Place, Burton upon Trent.
Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate; the activity is designed for a general audience. Check with your group to ensure everyone is comfortable walking and using a smartphone.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the activity. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Are there any additional fees?
All fees and taxes are included in the price. You just need to cover your transportation and any personal expenses.
Can I do this activity alone?
Yes, it’s private for your group, but it works best with 2 or more people to compete and enjoy the challenges.
Is the guide support helpful?
Absolutely. The remote guide texts you during the game, providing hints and encouragement, which many reviews find adds a friendly, helpful touch.
If you’re after an affordable, interactive, and lighthearted way to explore Burton upon Trent, this scavenger hunt ticks all those boxes. Just be ready to walk, think, and have some fun along the way!
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