Oxford and the Thief of Time
4.51Player rating· 186 plays →
Made for this city by a local creator, with a real-world challenge at every stop.
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Get this quest →The experience
About this quest
In the heart of Oxford, time slips from your grasp—literally. You are the heir to Alfred Du Pont, the world’s most brilliant watchmaker, and bearer of his final creation: a mysterious timepiece etched with sigils and secrets. But moments after arriving, it’s stolen. Was it chance… or destiny?
As you race through ancient lanes and hidden courtyards, following clues left in the city’s architecture and whispers of your family’s past, one thing becomes clear: the watch was never just a watch.
Grab your friends or family, and begin a real-world chase through Oxford’s mysteries. Solve puzzles, discover forgotten places, and see if you can catch the one who stole time itself.
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Your walk, at a glance
Oxford, UK
Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AZ, UK
Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AZ, UK
Start and finish only. Discover the stops as you play.
Along the way
Landmarks & Hidden Gems Included
From your phone to the streets
Pick it. Open it. Play.
- 01
Choose your access
Check the player and phone options for your group.
- 02
Open the Questo app
Follow your purchase instructions to access the quest.
- 03
Head to the start
Follow the clues and let the adventure unfold.
Choose your way to play
Explore at your own pace.
| Experience | This quest | Guided walking tour |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Discover places through stories and clues in the app | Hear stories and ask a guide questions |
| Pace | Pause for a photo, a café or a longer look | Usually follows the guide’s schedule |
| Company | Explore with your own people or on your own | Private and shared group tours are available |
| Guidance | Directions and challenges in the Questo app | Live interpretation from a guide |
Features and terms vary by experience. Check the details before booking.
Plan your day
Good to know before you play
- Walking distance
- 3.2 km
- Playing time
- Play at your pace · usually 69 min
- Languages
- EN · FR
A little clarity before you go
Frequently asked questions
Is Oxford and the Thief of Time self-guided?
Where does Oxford and the Thief of Time start and finish?
How many accesses does our group need?
What language is Oxford and the Thief of Time available in?
The people behind the adventure
Created by Chris Poole.
A route that brings places and playful storytelling together.
Made by Chris PooleEvery quest. One year.
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Give them a storyA day out, gifted.
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Keep exploring Oxford, UK
More adventures in Oxford, UK
HISTORY AND CULTURE IN OXFORD, UK
A history-led way to explore Oxford, UK
Oxford and the Thief of Time is for visitors who want more context than a casual walk, but more freedom than a scheduled guided tour. The quest uses a route through Oxford, UK to connect clues, places and stories.
The route starts at The Heads and finishes at The Chalkboard over 3.2 km, with 15 challenge locations. Typical duration: 69 min; 3.2 km walking route; 15 challenge locations
Choose this for active, private discovery at your pace. Choose a guided historical tour or museum when expert live interpretation or curated exhibits matter more. Playable languages: English, French.