Treasure Trails may just have the perfect solution for time-pressed parents searching to re-discover the lost magic of an old-fashioned family day out – without a ride queue, mobile device or overdraft in sight.

The Cornwall-based company, and their team of 19 dedicated writing partners, have devised more than 1,200 self-guided Trails throughout the UK; from Land's End to John o' Groats and everywhere in between.

Lasting around two hours the aim is to solve a set of fiendish clues on a circular route of around two miles. There are hints every few minutes; incorporating plaques, signs, statues, monuments, images, engravings or anything else the Trail writers can makes use of.

The Trails cost £6.99 (plus P&P if required) and are suitable for groups of up to five – compared to the average family day out at a theme park or visitor attraction that represents great value for money.

They can be downloaded direct from the website and printed immediately or sent in the post; personalised versions are also available online which can include your own photographs and text.

In London alone there are 41 different trails to choose from with enticing titles like 'The Missing Royal Wedding Ring Trail' in St James' Park, 'The Muswell Hill Menagerie Murder' and 'Lion Hunting in Stoke Newington'.

“Treasure Trails create memorable, shared experiences for people of all ages. Each Trail is different but they all offer a fun way to collectively get to know a new area or provide new perspectives on places you thought you knew well,” said Treasure Trails' Sam Willsher.

“We devise the clues to appeal to everyone so some are relatively easy while others are more challenging and the occasional one or two may even verge on the fiendish,” he added.

There's a, rarely-used, SMS 'Stuck on a Clue' helpline to ensure no Trail ever goes unsolved and there's also a chance to win £100 if you enter the answer to your Trail online where you can also download free certificates.

Around 85 per cent of the Trails are walking versions but there are also Cycling and Driving Trails available. Treasure Trails' team of Trail writing partners can even create bespoke adventures for groups.

Among a series of brand new Trails released are two ghost-themed ones located in Winchester, a Military Driving Trail in Aldershot and a Spy Mission Trail in Saffron Walden.

• Visit treasuretrails.co.uk to find out more and to download one of more than 1,200 Trails across the UK.

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