Sarah Price of Sarah Price Hiking has recently launched the Hay-on-Wye History Hunt, a self-guided digital treasure hunt that takes visitors on a 2.5km route around the town, solving clues and discovering some of Hay’s fascinating history, buildings, hidden corners and stories along the way.

“Hay is famous around the world as the Town of Books, but there is so much more to discover here,” said Sarah. “I’ve often felt that visitors arrive, wander around the bookshops and streets, perhaps visit the castle, and can easily miss some of the history and fascinating details that are all around them.

“The History Hunt is designed to help with that.”

How it works

Window sticker HUNTA Hay Hunt
Scan the QR code for the treasure hunt! (Sarah Price)

Visitors simply scan a QR code, purchase the Hunt and then use their phone to follow the clues.

There are 20 clues and locations to discover, with interesting facts revealed as they progress. It takes approximately 1½–2 hours, depending on pace, and can be enjoyed by families, couples, friends and groups.

One purchase allows multiple people to play together on one phone, and there is also a team option for people who want to compete against friends.

The Hunt starts beside the large carved Dragon at the top of Oxford Road Car Park, making it particularly easy for visitors to find.

It is particularly suitable for visitors who have a spare couple of hours and want to do something interactive rather than simply follow a conventional walking tour.

There is no booking time or meeting point to organise, people can start when it suits them and complete it at their own pace.

“I’m really hoping to make this something that becomes part of the wider Hay visitor experience, and I’d love local businesses to help spread the word,” said Sarah.

You can have a look at the Hunt here: