Forbury Gardens Treasure Hunt

A self-guided treasure hunt activity pack featuring historical clues hidden throughout Forbury Gardens, Reading's central public park. Families download the activity pack or collect it at the gardens entrance, then solve riddles and puzzles tied to local history and landmarks. Designed for children aged 5-12, the hunt takes 1.5 hours and concludes with a prize collection at the end. Best for families with children aged 5-12. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 2-10. You meet at Forbury Gardens main entrance. Key highlights: Downloadable activity pack available before visit, Clues tied to real Reading history (Abbey, industrial heritage), Designed for independent reading and problem-solving.

Price: £15

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-10

Minimum age: 5

Best for: families with children aged 5-12

Best time: Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather without extreme heat. Avoid peak school holiday periods for quieter experience. Hunt works year-round but muddy sections after heavy rain.

Meeting point: Forbury Gardens main entrance

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Upon arrival Collect activity pack and orientate - Pick up colour-coded clue pack at entrance; read opening instructions and view park map with marked locations.

First 20 min Clues 1-2 at Abbey ruins area - Solve historical riddles about Reading Abbey to unlock next location; clues incorporate facts about Norman history.

20-45 min Clues 3-4 through gardens and landmarks - Follow narrative clues linking treasured objects, statues, and natural features; family discusses historical context at each stop.

45-75 min Clues 5-6 final locations - Navigate to lesser-visited park areas with creative clues about Reading's industrial heritage and famous residents.

Final 15 min Return to entrance and claim prize - Final clue directs family back to entrance where staff verify completed activity pack and distribute small prize rewards.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Forbury Gardens main entrance.

• Downloadable activity pack available before visit
• Clues tied to real Reading history (Abbey, industrial heritage)
• Designed for independent reading and problem-solving
• Small prizes for completed hunts
• Covers the full Forbury Gardens park with safe walking routes
• Accessibility: Park pathways are mostly level with some minor inclines. Fully accessible for wheelchair users. Buggy-friendly routes available. Benches positioned throughout for rest breaks. Activity packs can be modified for different reading levels.

What is included: Activity pack (digital or printed), Park map with marked locations, Small prize at completion, Historical information cards at major stops.

Not included: Food or drinks, Souvenir merchandise beyond small prize, Locker or storage facilities, Guided commentary (self-guided only). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Printed activity pack (if downloaded) or pencils to collect one, Pencil or pen for clue solving, Water bottle for hydration, Sun protection (hat, sun cream), Comfortable walking shoes. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather without extreme heat. Avoid peak school holiday periods for quieter experience. Hunt works year-round but muddy sections after heavy rain..

Tip: Available as downloadable activity pack

Tip: Weather dependent - backup indoor options provided

Accessibility: Park pathways are mostly level with some minor inclines. Fully accessible for wheelchair users. Buggy-friendly routes available. Benches positioned throughout for rest breaks. Activity packs can be modified for different reading levels..

Operator: Reading Family Adventures

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Reading Abbey Ruins (included in hunt walk)
• Reading Museum (8 min walk walk)
• Greyfriars Church (5 min walk walk)

This activity is run by Reading Family Adventures.

Cancellation policy: Non-refundable once purchased. Activity packs can be redeemed on any visit within 3 months of purchase date..

Accessibility: Park pathways are mostly level with some minor inclines. Fully accessible for wheelchair users. Buggy-friendly routes available. Benches positioned throughout for rest breaks. Activity packs can be modified for different reading levels..

Best time to go: Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather without extreme heat. Avoid peak school holiday periods for quieter experience. Hunt works year-round but muddy sections after heavy rain..

Can I download the Forbury Gardens treasure hunt pack before visiting?

Yes. The activity pack is available as a downloadable PDF on the Reading Family Adventures website. Print it before your visit to start immediately upon arrival. Printed packs are also available free at the gardens entrance, though downloading ahead is recommended to avoid delays.

How long does the Forbury Gardens treasure hunt take?

The hunt typically takes 1.5 hours for families with children aged 5-12. Completion time varies by age and reading speed. Younger children (5-7) may take closer to 2 hours; older children (10-12) can finish in 1 hour or less.

What if the weather is bad during the treasure hunt?

The hunt is outdoor-based and cannot be completed in heavy rain. Backup indoor activity options are provided by Reading Family Adventures - alternative puzzles or indoor scavenger hunts can be substituted. Check the website for weather-specific updates before your visit.