Step into 18th-century Falmouth. Become a smuggler. Deliver the goods. Game or Guide. You Decide!
A Smuggler's Tale is a location-based adventure trail through the historic streets of Falmouth, Cornwall. Using your phone's GPS, you'll navigate a hand-illustrated map of Falmouth, solve puzzles at real landmarks, and unlock the story of a daring smuggling run from the Prince of Wales Pier to the gates of Arwenack House.
HOW IT WORKS
Follow the custom illustrated map to each of the 10 waypoints scattered across Falmouth. When you arrive within range of a location, the app automatically unlocks a chapter of the story along with a puzzle based on your real surroundings. Solve it to reveal the next destination and push deeper into the trail.
THE STORY
You've rowed ashore under cover of darkness with a cargo of contraband silk. Your mission: deliver it to the notorious Lady Killigrew at Arwenack House before the customs officers catch you. Navigate the backstreets, duck into historic taverns, climb Jacob's Ladder, and slip past Custom House Quay without being caught.
FEATURES
• A beautifully hand-drawn map in a dark, pen-and-ink illustration style
• 10 real-world locations across Falmouth to discover
• GPS-powered proximity unlocking — no QR scanning needed
• Historical puzzles that use your actual surroundings as clues
• Progressive hint system if you get stuck
• Works entirely on your phone — no extra equipment needed
ATTRACTIONS
The trail guides you past some of Falmouth's most iconic landmarks and cultural venues, including Falmouth Art Gallery, The Poly, and the National Maritime Museum. Each stop brings the town's smuggling past to life with rich narrative and real-world discovery.
PERFECT FOR
• Visitors exploring Falmouth for the first time
• Locals who want to rediscover their town's smuggling heritage
• Families, friends, and groups looking for a fun outdoor activity
• History enthusiasts and adventure seekers
The trail takes approximately 60–90 minutes on foot. Suitable for all ages. Best experienced in daylight hours.
Begin the Smuggler's Run. Falmouth is waiting.
