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

If you’re visiting York and want a fresh twist on sightseeing, the Treasures of Bloodaxe offers a playful, self-guided Viking-themed treasure hunt that promises to entertain history buffs and curious travelers alike. Instead of traditional guided tours, this experience puts you in control, using your smartphone to chat with Eric Bloodaxe, the last Viking King of York, as you solve riddles and uncover hidden gems around the city.

One of the standout features of this activity is its flexibility. You can start at any time between noon and late evening, making it convenient for most schedules. The price point, just under $9 per person, makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers. We particularly appreciate that this tour is private, meaning only your group is involved, enhancing the sense of adventure and privacy.

A possible consideration is that since it’s a self-guided, mobile-based activity, it might lack the personal storytelling and in-depth commentary of a live guide. Still, for those who enjoy a bit of independence and puzzle-solving, this is a fantastic option. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or groups looking for an interactive way to explore York’s landmarks without the crowds or rigid schedules.

Key Points

• Self-guided and flexible—explore at your own pace using your smartphone
• Engages both adults and children with riddles and clues
• Highlights top sights and hidden corners of York
• Affordable, offering good value for a 1.5-hour interactive experience
• Perfect for small groups or families seeking a fun, educational activity
• Operates year-round, from noon until late evening

How the Experience Works: Chatting with Eric Bloodaxe

The adventure kicks off at Exhibition Square in York, a central spot easy to find. Once you scan your mobile ticket, you’ll start a chat with Eric Bloodaxe, who acts as your guide. Unlike traditional tours that rely on a guide’s narration, here Eric prompts you with riddles and clues that relate to objects and spots you’ll find around the city.

Most reviews highlight the interactive nature of the experience. Theresa_P, who participated in February 2025, described it as a “fun interactive activity” where the answers are straightforward but require some thinking, especially when hunting for less obvious clues. Silvia_G from December 2024 appreciated the easy-to-understand information that still made her think as she followed the clues around the city.

The Route: Sights and Hidden Gems

The tour winds through York’s well-known landmarks and lesser-known spots, making it a balanced mix of top sights and hidden treasures. While the exact stops aren’t listed in detail, the start at Exhibition Square suggests you’ll pass through areas rich in history. The clues relate to objects on the route, encouraging you to pay close attention—whether you’re admiring the medieval architecture or noticing subtle details in the streets.

Since the activity ends back at the starting point, it’s a convenient loop that suits those on a time limit or wanting to avoid wandering too far. The tour is designed to take roughly 1 hour 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the hunt without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Interaction

This is a private activity, so only your group participates. That allows for a more personalized experience, which many reviewers found enjoyable. Ryan_B noted that their kids loved guessing the clues, making it a great family activity. It’s perfect for small groups seeking an engaging, non-traditional way to explore.

Ease and Accessibility

Booking is straightforward, with mobile tickets issued instantly. You can start anytime during operational hours (noon to 11:30 pm daily), which offers plenty of flexibility. The tour’s simplicity makes it accessible for most travelers, including those with service animals or mobility considerations.

Value for Money

At around $8.91 per person, this treasure hunt offers notable value, considering the amount of fun and discovery packed into the 90-minute experience. There’s no extra cost for guides or transportation, which keeps the overall expense minimal. When compared to traditional guided tours in York, this activity provides a more interactive, less formal alternative that still delivers a meaningful exploration of the city.

What Makes This Tour Special?

What sets the Treasures of Bloodaxe apart is its interactive storytelling. Having a character like Eric Bloodaxe guiding you through chat creates a playful atmosphere, especially for those with an interest in Viking history. The clues are designed to be accessible but challenge you enough to keep the activity engaging.

Many reviews underscore the knowledgeable guides behind the scenes. Although you won’t meet a guide in person, the experience is powered by well-designed content that keeps you engaged and thinking. It’s clear that the creators put thought into making the riddles fun without being overly complicated.

Who Will Love It?

This treasure hunt is ideal for families with children, who enjoy puzzles and interactive stories. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups wanting a lighthearted, memorable way to see York. History buffs and puzzle lovers alike will enjoy the mental challenge and the chance to uncover York’s lesser-known corners.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

Compared to other York attractions like river cruises or ghost tours, this activity is more casual and less time-consuming but offers a different kind of insight into the city’s Viking past. For those looking for a more personalized and playful experience, it’s an excellent choice.

The Treasures of Bloodaxe offers a fun, interactive twist on exploring York, combining history with light-hearted puzzle solving. Its self-guided format means you can take your time, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy a memorable, educational adventure without the hassle of large tours. With a friendly price point and the flexibility to start whenever you like, it presents excellent value for a relaxed, engaging activity.

While it may lack the depth of a guided tour, it compensates with its storytelling charm and interactive format. If you like combining sightseeing with a bit of brain-teasing fun, you’ll find this Viking treasure hunt a delightful way to uncover York’s hidden stories.

Overall, it’s a great option for those seeking a unique, family-friendly experience that blends history, adventure, and a dash of Viking lore. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy puzzles, interactive stories, and exploring at their own pace.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoy guessing clues and participating actively in the hunt, making it a good family activity.

Do I need to download any app?
You will experience the tour via your smartphone’s chat feature, so a mobile device with internet access is required.

Can I start the treasure hunt at any time?
Yes, the tour is available daily from noon until 11:30 pm, and you can begin whenever it’s convenient within those hours.

How long does the activity take?
The estimated duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but since it’s self-guided, you can take more or less time as you see fit.

Is this a group or solo activity?
It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized adventure.

What landmarks or sights are included?
While specific stops aren’t listed, the clues relate to objects on the route, covering top sights and hidden corners of York.

What is the price per person?
It costs approximately $8.91 per person, offering good value for an engaging 90-minute activity.

How do I book?
Booking is simple through the provided link, and tickets are delivered as a mobile ticket, making the process quick and convenient.

If you’re after a different kind of tour, York offers a variety of experiences, but for those who love puzzles, storytelling, and history, the Treasures of Bloodaxe makes for a memorable and affordable adventure.