The Treasures of Bloodaxe – A Fun Viking Treasure Hunt in York

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of York, but instead of a typical guided tour, you’re carried along by a lively conversation with Eric Bloodaxe, the last Viking King of York. For just $8.91 per person, this self-guided treasure hunt lasts around 90 minutes and is played entirely on your smartphone, making it an engaging way to uncover the city’s hidden stories and landmarks. Starting at Exhibition Square, you’ll follow clues, solve riddles, and uncover York’s Viking past in a way that feels both interactive and laid-back—no big crowds, no rigid schedules.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history and fun in a pocket-sized adventure—perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace while keeping their brain engaged. Plus, it’s a great option for families or groups of friends looking for something a little different from the usual walking tour. The emphasis on interactive storytelling makes history come alive in a way that’s accessible and memorable.

A potential consideration is that since it’s self-guided and based on riddles, if you’re not comfortable with puzzles or prefer a more structured tour, this might not be your ideal choice. It’s best for travelers who don’t mind a little brain-teasing and are looking for a flexible, engaging way to explore York.

This Viking treasure hunt suits adventurous families, couples, or groups who enjoy a mix of history, puzzle-solving, and a touch of playful discovery. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences that feel fresh and interactive.

Key Points

• Self-guided exploration: Enjoy the freedom to wander at your own pace without following a crowd.
• Interactive storytelling: Chat with “Eric Bloodaxe” and solve riddles to uncover York’s Viking past.
• Discover hidden gems: The clues lead you to both top sights and lesser-known spots.
• Affordable fun: At less than $9, it offers excellent value for an hour plus of entertainment.
• Family friendly: Suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy puzzles and history.
• Flexible timing: Available any time between noon and late evening, fitting easily into your day.

What’s the core appeal of this Viking-themed treasure hunt?

This experience stands out because it turns a typical city walk into an interactive game. Instead of just looking at plaques or listening to a guide, you become part of a story—chatting with Eric Bloodaxe, who guides you through York’s streets. It’s a modern twist on discovery that appeals to those who prefer learning through participation rather than passive listening.

For many, the cost is a significant plus. At just under $9, you’re paying a fraction of what traditional guided tours cost but still gaining a compelling narrative and the chance to explore the city independently. This makes it especially attractive for budget-conscious travelers or families wanting a fun activity without breaking the bank.

What’s the itinerary like?

The adventure begins at Exhibition Square, a central and easily accessible spot. From there, your virtual guide, Eric, will introduce the story and set the scene. The clues will then lead you around key landmarks, which could include well-known sites or hidden corners that only the most dedicated explorers might stumble upon on their own.

The riddles are designed to be approachable but engaging, encouraging you to think about objects and locations along your route. As Silvia G mentions, “follow the clues make the time pass quickly,” which is a perfect way to describe the experience—rather than a long, static tour, it’s a lively puzzle that keeps you moving.

What do the reviews say?

The reviews are glowing, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 18 travelers. The most common praise? The interactive and fun nature of the activity. One reviewer, Theresa P, called it a “fun interactive activity,” mentioning that while the answers are simple, the process of looking for less obvious clues adds a layer of challenge. Ryan B’s family enjoyed it because “their kids really enjoyed guessing the clues,” emphasizing its family-friendly appeal.

Some travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, even if they’re not traditional guides, as the game’s narrative keeps you engaged and gives a sense of authentic storytelling. The flexible timing and the ability to do it at your own pace also resonated as major advantages.

Practical details

The activity is self-guided with a mobile ticket, which means you can start whenever it suits you—any time between noon and late evening. The duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, but you can take longer if you wish. Meeting at Exhibition Square, the location is near public transportation, making it easy to access without fuss.

The cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind should your plans change unexpectedly.

Who would enjoy this most?

This treasure hunt is ideal for families with children, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy puzzles and storytelling. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to explore York beyond the usual guidebook, discovering hidden nooks and hearing a lively Viking tale along the way.

This activity offers fantastic value, blending history, technology, and playful discovery in a compact package. It’s a creative way to learn about York’s Viking past without the formality of a traditional tour, making history accessible and fun. The interactive chat with Eric Bloodaxe brings a personal touch, turning sightseeing into an engaging adventure.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly activity that combines discovery with fun puzzles, this treasure hunt is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy stories that involve participation rather than passive listening, and if you appreciate a flexible schedule that fits into your day.

However, if you prefer a guided tour with a dedicated guide speaking directly to you, or if puzzles aren’t your thing, you might want to consider other options. Still, for a lighthearted, interactive exploration of York’s Viking roots, this stand-out experience delivers both entertainment and education at a very reasonable price.

How long does the treasure hunt last?
It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, but you can take longer if you want to explore more or spend extra time solving riddles.

Where do I start the activity?
You begin at Exhibition Square, a central location in York that’s easy to find and close to public transportation.

Can I do this activity at any time?
Yes, it’s available anytime from noon to late evening. The activity is self-guided, so you can start whenever it suits you.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers your mobile ticket and access to the game, which is playable on your own smartphone.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention kids enjoyed guessing clues, making it a family-friendly activity suitable for all ages.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

This Viking treasure hunt in York offers a lively, affordable way to explore the city’s past with a modern twist. Whether you’re a history buff, puzzle lover, or just looking for something different, it’s a charming, fun-filled adventure that makes history feel personal and playful.