Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need before you lace up and head out.

1

Book at play.sidewalks.co.uk

Choose your trail, team size and language. Pay £10 per person.

2

Get your gamecode by email

Valid for 90 days. Use it any time, any day.

3

Head to the start and play

Open the app in your browser, enter your code and follow the clues.

Booking & Gamecodes

How do I book?

Visit play.sidewalks.co.uk, choose your trail, team size and language, then pay £10 per person. Your gamecode arrives by email — usually instantly.

How long is my gamecode valid?

Your gamecode is valid for 90 days from the date of booking. You can use it once per team, any time during that period. Need an extension? Drop us a line at contact@sidewalks.co.uk.

Can I use the same gamecode again?

Each gamecode can be used once per team. If you want to replay a trail, you'll need to book again.

What's your refund policy?

Refunds are available if you haven't activated the game. Once a game is started, refunds are only granted in exceptional circumstances at our discretion.

Playing the Trails

Do I need to download an app?

No app needed — the game runs entirely in your browser at play.sidewalks.co.uk. All you need is a mobile data connection or Wi-Fi along the route.

Can I pause and take breaks?

Absolutely — this is a walk, not a race. Pause for a drink, a rest, or to explore something interesting. When you're ready, just pick up where you left off.

What in-game commands are available?
  • /ROUTE – Get directions via Google Maps
  • /HINT – Get help with a tricky clue
  • /SKIP – Skip the current puzzle
  • /DIVERT – Step-free route (where available)
  • /RESEND – Replay the last stage's messages
  • /LANGUAGE – Change language mid-trail
Do I need a mobile data connection?

Yes — the game runs online, so you'll need a working mobile connection or Wi-Fi along the route. Central London has good coverage throughout.

The Trails Themselves

Is the content historical fact or fiction?

Most trails blend real historical facts (shown in italic) with fictional storytelling:

  • Ripper Trail is 100% factual
  • Sherlock Trail is entirely fictional
  • Other trails blend fact and fiction in playful ways
Are the trails suitable for children?

Yes — children are welcome and will enjoy hunting for visual clues. Ripper Trail contains historical details some families may prefer to skip (you'll be given the choice in-game).

Which trails are step-free?

Fully step-free: Sherlock Trail, Grail Trail, Ripper Trail

Step-free options available: Spy Trail, Alchemy Trail

Use /DIVERT in-game for the step-free route. London has unavoidable kerbs and slopes in some areas regardless.

What time of day should I play?

Any time, any day — but we recommend finishing within daylight hours, as some routes pass through parks and gardens that close at dusk.

Are there toilets along the routes?

Yes — all routes pass public toilets and venues in the Community Toilet Scheme. The Toilets4London App shows nearby facilities.

Languages & Accessibility

Which languages are available?

All trails are available in 11 languages: English · French · Spanish · Italian · German · Japanese · Chinese · Portuguese · Russian · Korean · Arabic. Use /LANGUAGE to switch mid-trail.

Is audio narration available?

Yes — audio narration is available on the English version of all trails.

Legal & Safety

Who is responsible for my safety?

Participation is at your own risk. Please walk with care, follow road safety rules and look after your team. SideWalks accepts no liability for injury, loss or damage during play.

Who runs SideWalks?

SideWalks is the trading name of Sidewalk Trails Ltd, Company No. 14811403. All content is protected intellectual property.

Still got a question?

Drop us a line at contact@sidewalks.co.uk and we'll get back to you.

Book a Trail