Family Treasure Trail: The Quest for Byrhtnoth’s Lost Gold

Calling all young adventurers - and their grown-up companions! Take part in a fictional family quest inspired by Maldon’s remarkable history and the story of the Anglo-Saxon warrior Byrhtnoth. Armed with your treasure map, explore the town in search of eight mysterious Keepers. Solve their riddles, study Maldon’s historic buildings and landmarks, and collect the letters needed to awaken Byrhtnoth’s Talisman. If you complete the puzzle successfully, it will reveal the secret place where the Festival Keeper guards Byrhtnoth’s Lost Gold. The quest combines fascinating local history with observation, puzzle-solving and plenty of family fun. Recommended for children aged 8 and over, accompanied by an adult.

Map collection: Treasure maps can be collected from the All Saints Church between 10:00am and 1:00pm.

Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles

Time: Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours to complete the trail. Byrhtnoth’s Lost Gold can be claimed from the secret location between 12:00 noon and 4:00pm.

Route information:

Route Length Category - Short

Accessibility of route – The complete route is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Start and finish – Collect your treasure map from the All Saints Church, High Street, Maldon. The trail can be started from any of four suggested locations and completed in any order. Solving the final puzzle will reveal the secret finishing place in Maldon town centre.

Toilets – various locations in the High Street and Promenade Park

Public transport – Maldon High Street is served by several local bus routes. The nearest bus stop is All Saints Church, a short walk from the Maeldune Heritage Centre. Please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling.

Lunch/refreshments can be purchased in various locations in the High Street and Promenade Park.

Route - A self-guided family trail using public streets, pavements and paths through Maldon town centre, the Hythe and Promenade Park. Children must be supervised near roads, quay edges and water.