A Trail of Burke & Hare [Outdoor]

This trail starts and ends at Escape The Past, where our GM met us for a quick briefing. She handed us an over-the-shoulder bag containing a map, puzzle pieces, a code wheel and a wooden box with various locks. Also in the bag is a big leather-bound folder that contains instructions on how to play, along with different chapters housing puzzles. To begin, one team member needs to scan a QR code to load up the browser-based web application. This is used to verify answers and unlock new information as you progress through the experience. When you complete a puzzle, you’ll unlock instructions for where to go next. At this point, you can opt to race on or read additional historical context about the location you are in. The puzzles creatively use landmarks within the city, along with physical items in the bag, which added a tactile, immersive nature to gameplay. Our task was to follow the clues, find specific locations and then solve puzzles to retrieve codes to unlock the wooden box. This would reveal the identity of the next victim, who could then have protection put in place. A particular section of the trail took us to a famous cemetery, where we made the rookie mistake of running off too quickly. We spent a large amount of time running around the cemetery, only to find we’d been standing in front of what we needed when we first arrived. Aside from this blip, we made it all the way through to the very satisfying and bone-chilling climax. The trail lasts approximately two hours, but you are encouraged to take breaks along the way. The final drop-off time for the bag is confirmed when you first arrive at the venue, and may be different depending on other bookings. In terms of accessibility, the route is fairly physical and will involve you doing a fair amount of walking. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather. It is worth noting that there are no options for bag storage at the venue. As we had checked out of our accommodation, this meant we had to hunt around for a luggage storage facility before we could begin. This did ultimately impact our enjoyment of the trail. —— A full review of all of Escape The Past’s experiences can be found here: https://escapepuzzler.com/escape-the-past-edinburgh-uk-feature/