Black Cat Treasure Hunts - Latest News Feed

May the Fourth (or Force!) Treasure Hunts | Themed Summer Socials Brighton

April might mark the start of Treasure Hunt Season… but with May the Fourth just around the corner, things are about to get galactic.

This month kicked off with one of my favourite themed treasure hunts yet: a hen party where the entire group arrived dressed as Stormtroopers, while the bride-to-be channelled full Princess Leia energy. Brighton shoppers didn’t know whether to take photos, salute the Empire, or ask where the after-party was.

And honestly? It was a reminder of just how brilliant themed treasure hunts can be — and how much fun is waiting for teams, hens, stags, and companies this summer.

Why Themed Treasure Hunts Work So Well

Whether you’re a Jedi Knight, a tropical flamingo, or a 1920s detective, a theme instantly transforms a treasure hunt from “fun day out” to “unforgettable adventure”.

Themes add:

Instant team spirit — even Stormtroopers laugh when they’re racing to solve clues
Brilliant photos — Brighton’s lanes + fancy dress = social media gold
A shared story — the kind people talk about long after the event

And if a group of Stormtroopers can navigate the seafront without bumping into lampposts, your team can definitely handle a few clues.

Looking Ahead: Summer Socials Are Coming In Fast

May the Fourth might be the perfect excuse for a themed hunt… but summer is where things really take off.

Companies and celebration treasure hunts have booked the following themes (amongst many others) in the past:

Tropical-themed treasure hunts (Hawaiian shirts were encouraged)
Murder-Mystery
Game of Thrones
Colour-coded team battles
Beach Party

If April’s six-hunts-in-four-days rush is anything to go by, the prime summer dates won’t stay free for long.

So whether your team wants to go full Star Wars, full tropical paradise, or something completely bespoke, now’s the moment to lock it in.

Fancy a Themed Treasure Hunt of Your Own

From Stormtroopers to superheroes, tropical explorers to time travellers - if you can imagine it, I can build it into a Brighton treasure hunt that fits your group perfectly.

Contact me via email on: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk
or call me (Tim) on (01323) 655346

April Marks the Start of Treasure Hunt Season | Book Your Brighton Summer Social

April always feels like a turning point in Brighton — longer days, lighter evenings, and that first real hint that summer is on the way. For Black Cat Treasure Hunts, it also marks something else entirely: the official start of Treasure Hunt Season.

And this year, it’s arrived with a bang.

Across just four days — from this Friday to next Monday — I’m running six treasure hunts for teams, celebrations, and groups ready to shake off winter and get exploring. It’s the kind of weekend that reminds me why April is the perfect launchpad for everything I do.

Why April Is the Moment Everyone Starts Booking

There’s something about this time of year that gets people planning again. Companies begin thinking about team socials, managers look for ways to reconnect their teams, and groups of friends start plotting summer celebrations.

Treasure hunts tick every box:

Fresh air and movement after months indoors
Team bonding without the awkward icebreakers
A sense of adventure that feels different from the usual pub and pizza social
Brighton at its best, full of colour, character, and hidden stories

April is when enquiries suddenly jump — and with six hunts in one long weekend, it’s clear the season has officially begun.

Planning a Summer Social? Now Is the Time

If you’re organising a summer social, team-building day, or company celebration, April is the sweet spot to get your date locked in.

Why?

Prime dates go quickly — Black Cat can attend your event to organise it or he can mark it remotely if he is booked in elsewhere
Weather improves - Sun is not guaranteed of course, but Black Cat has a good record of `arranging sunshine` on your treasure hunt day!
You get the widest choice of bespoke routes, timings, and custom clues. No-one else is this flexible.
It gives you time to personalise your hunt with inside jokes, team references, or a competitive twist

Whether you want a relaxed, scenic route or a fast-paced competitive challenge, booking early means you get exactly the experience you want.

What Treasure Hunt Season Means for You

For companies, April to September is the golden window for outdoor socials. A treasure hunt gives your team:

A shared experience that feels fun, not forced
A chance to explore Brighton in a new way
A natural mix of teamwork, creativity, and friendly rivalry
A memorable story to take back to the office

And for celebrations — birthdays, hen parties, reunions — it’s a brilliant way to kick off a day out.

Ready to Start Your Own Adventure?

If April is the start of Treasure Hunt Season, then summer is where it truly comes alive. With six hunts happening this weekend alone, the momentum is already building — and I’d love to help your team or group be part of it.

Whether you’re planning ahead or want something sooner, get in touch and let’s create a treasure hunt that fits your group perfectly.

Brighton is ready. Treasure Hunt Season has begun.

One last thing! I love a day out planning treasure hunts across the county of Sussex and in London too. From Chichester to Camden or Seaford to Shoreditch, get in touch for an alternaive venue for your corporate summer social.

Contact: Tim/Black Cat on email: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or via a real landline (01323) 655346. I will reply straight away if I`m at home or within 24 hours if I am at an event.

How my Word Cloud Reveals What Makes Black Cat Treasure Hunts Special.

By Tim Carter (Owner at Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

I asked AI to come up with a word cloud that related to my treasure hunt website and the key features I am trying to get across. It was interesting to see which words and phrases made the cut. I give my opinion on what it got right and wrong or what maybe I need to change to help it to get it 100% right! If you are interested in booking one of my treasure hunts then I think you will find the following useful.

HEN PARTIES CORPORATE GROUPS
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES BIRTHDAYS CELEBRATIONS
HIDDEN GEMS CREATIVE ROUTES PERSONALISED STORIES
DISCOVERY ADVENTURE TEAMWORK MAPS CHALLENGES
OUTDOOR FUN CITY EXPLORATION GROUP ACTIVITIES ROUTES
BRIGHTON TEAM BUILDING SUSSEX
BLACK CAT TREASURE HUNTS BESPOKE EVENTS
FUN TREASURE HUNTS LONDON
PUZZLES CLUES LOCAL KNOWLEDGE TEAM BONDING
SUSSEX TREASURE HUNTS LONDON TREASURE HUNTS
UNIQUE ROUTES TREASURE TRAIL

What did AI get right/wrong (top 5 lines):
Certainly it is fair to say that hen parties and corporate groups are core target groups for Black Cat Treasure Hunts. I enjoy writing specific, new, treasure hunts for them and often being there on the day to help organise and do the marking.
Unique experiences is definitely a phrase I am happy to see in there. It is really a `unique` selling point for Black Cat! Birthdays and celebrations confirm the majority of the rest of the type of bookings that I aim for. The online treasure hunts are covered further down with only treasure hunts for foreign students not really represented. I had an enquiry for 66 French students yesterday, so maybe the message is getting through somewere even if AI has not noticed it!
The third line contains three excellent phrases. Hidden gems are what I am always on the look-out for when creating a new treasure hunt. This could take the form of a new piece of striking street art or even
an intriguing side street that I haven`t used before. Hidden gems therefore links neatly to creative routes. Everyone who visits Brighton (or anywhere covered by Black Cat for that matter) want to cover as broad a cross-section as possible in the available time. Creative routes achieve this and Black Cat is a master! Personalised stories references the use of personal information (and photos) adopted in many treasure hunts created by Black Cat. All hen party, birthday and celebration treasure hunts use this method.
The fourth and fifth lines really capture what you could expect on a Black Cat treasure hunt. Discovery, adventure and city exploration (towns too really!) perfectly illustrate what I am after. Teamwork, challenges, outdoor fun and group activities are all certainly what you will encounter. The only word I would not have included in this section is maps. I do not use maps, preferring to put the emphasis on clear directions only when you need to change direction. Maps can be confusing and will often slow a team down if used. The word routes is used again but I think the phrase different (or creative as in line 3) routes would have been better as I have a collection of routes across the county of Sussex and in London. In Brighton alone I have lost count of the different number of routes I have used depending on where people like to start and finish.

What did AI get right/wrong (middle 3 lines. Lines 6,7,8):
These lines really look at the most important parts of Black Cat Treasure Hunts` business and are more basic words because of that maybe. Brighton team building reminds you that Brighton is central to Black Cat Treasure Hunts` activity whilst companies from across the country (particularly London) and across the World on occasions choose the city for a fun and engaging team building activity. Sussex is rightly mentioned as a core word. The on-line, downloadable treasure hunts are set across East and West Sussex. Black Cat already has 9 team building treasure hunts booked for Chichester this year for example to prove that he is not a one trick pony! (one trick cat?!)
Line seven emphasises the brand that is Black Cat Treasure Hunts. The inquisitive cat logo and the gentle humour used in the treasure hunts themselves are part of the discovery yet laid back combination. Bespoke events covers a wide range of Black Cat Treasure Hunts products. If you have a theme you want to use or a product to launch or your own guidelines an agenda then I`m all up for it. My favourite quote prior to writing a team building treasure hunt for a team of insurance investigators was, "...please make some of this as hard as possible. It wouldn`t be the worst thing if some of them got a little lost!"
The last line in the middle mentions fun, treasure hunts and London. Obvious, but clear as to what you will get and a reminder that Black Cat is always happy to venture outside Sussex for a trip to the capital. I am due to set a treasure hunt around Hyde Park soon.

What did AI get right/wrong (bottom 3 lines. Lines 9,10 and 11):
AI starts line 9 with puzzles. I am not sure this deserves to be included. I include cryptic clues and I will have challenges that may have you puzzled but puzzles like mathematical conundrums and things that are not about what you can see or do on route do not feature that often. I will include them on request if it is a particular interest of the person it is for.
Clues, local knowledge and team bonding are much more appropriate choices. The questions, which are in order will provide the clues as to where to look for the answers. Local knowledge is a speciality of Black Cat. I have lived in different places across Sussex (I still live in Sussex), I have worked in Brighton and I went to University in Chichester. I have the knowledge that other companies may not. Team bonding is slightly different to team building and, whichever way you consider those two, is a significant outcome of a Black Cat treasure hunt. Having fun whilst finding the right answers and completing amusing challenges definitely leads to team bonding.
Sussex treasure hunts and London treasure hunts in line 10 is re-inforcement of where I am talking about in terms of speciality but, and you might need to whisper this, I also consider enquiries for elsewhere. I have written treasure hunts in Norfolk (and..er..Kent, Hampshire and Surrey). You may need to make those `long distance ones!` (ha ha!) worth my while though.
Line 11 mentions unique routes, which I have established to be entirely accurate. At this point I should add that the majority (not quite all) of national treasure hunt companies with treasure hunts set in Brighton normally only have one route around the city because they do not have time to set and check more. I work around where you are (accommodation/restaurant/pub/previous activity) and where you want to be. Treasure trail is listed as the last word. I think AI is slightly off track here as the phrase is a bit vague. If I attend treasure hunts I will provide some `treasure` (often fun medals and a tiny trophy) and I suppose trail is another word for route.
So...on the whole I think AI was accurate with a few doubtful inclusions but, as AI will tell you, it is only as good as the material it works with. If you check Black Cat Treasure Hunts reviews (Google Maps/website testimonials/Tripadvisor) you will note across the board 5* (just saying AI...keep up!)

To start your bespoke treasure hunt today, contact me (Tim or Black Cat as you wish!) on:

Email: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk

Phone: (01323) 655346

Why People Choose Black Cat Treasure Hunts: Real Stories From Teams, Hens, Birthdays & Bespoke Adventures in Brighton

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of designing treasure hunts for teams, hen parties, couples, families, and groups looking for something a little different in Brighton. Every hunt is handcrafted, every route is tested, and every clue is designed to spark a moment — a laugh, a discovery, a bit of friendly competition, or a shared “aha!” moment.

Rather than tell you why Black Cat Treasure Hunts work so well, I thought I’d let the people who’ve taken part share their experiences. Their words reveal exactly how a treasure hunt can transform a team day, elevate a celebration, or create a unique gift that people remember for years.

Brighton Team Building Activities With a Difference.

Companies often tell me they want a team building activity in Brighton that isn’t forced, awkward, or predictable. Treasure hunts tick all the boxes: they get people moving, talking, solving, and laughing — without ever feeling like a corporate exercise.

Here’s what one team of 50 adults had to say:

“Absolutely fantastic!!!!!!...cannot recommend Black Cat Treasure Hunts enough. We did this as a team building challenge at work for 50 adults. From the original enquiry, to the final marking and administration of the day Tim was a pleasure to work with and made the whole thing so easy. He understood our requirements, tailored the hunt to our needs and delivered one of the best team building activities I have ever taken part of. This is a very unique and special activity and I highly recommend it to all – we had so much fun on the day, several people want to book Black Cats again in the future for their birthdays, hen do's and anniversary parties!!! Thanks Tim for such a wonderful day. Every single person in our group loved it!”

When a team of 50 says every single person loved it, that’s the kind of social proof no sales pitch can beat.

Hen Parties: Personalised, Playful, and Packed With Brighton Charm

Hen groups often want something fun, inclusive, and memorable — a Brighton hen party treasure hunt is perfect for that.They break the ice instantly, create shared jokes, and give the bride a celebration that feels unique to her.

This is what one hen group shared after their Brighton adventure:

“If you want a fun and unique treasure hunt experience, you should definitely choose Black Cat!! We had a fantastic Hen treasure hunt in Brighton for my sister and everyone loved it. It was a great way of getting everyone involved and seeing parts of the city that we may have otherwise missed. The detail was amazing, it was really clear to follow and I loved all the quirky and personalised comments. So much fun! Thank you Tim for your attention to detail, you were always on hand whenever I had a question and made the process so straight forward from start to finish!”

Hen parties love the personalised touches — the inside jokes, the references to the bride, the playful clues — and Brighton provides the perfect backdrop for photos, surprises, and laughter.

Birthdays: A Memorable Way to Celebrate With Friends and Family

Birthday groups often want something lively, inclusive, and full of shared moments — a birthday treasure hunt in Brighton is ideal for that. Birthday Treasure hunts are perfect for that mix of fun, challenge, and celebration.

Here’s what one birthday organiser had to say:

“I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you, the treasure hunt went down a storm and my sister absolutely loved it! We all did. We had such a great time and the hunt was so well put together I was pretty blown away to be honest! We have some great pics and videos of the challenges and we had a right laugh working out the winning team.”

Birthdays are all about joy and connection, and a treasure hunt gives groups a shared adventure they can relive through photos, videos, and stories long after the candles are blown out.

Bespoke Treasure Hunts: Personalised Adventures for any Occasion.

Some of the most meaningful hunts I create are bespoke treasure hunts — anniversaries, surprises, gifts, or special requests that need a personal touch. These are the hunts where creativity meets sentiment, and where Brighton becomes the setting for a story that belongs entirely to the people taking part.

Here’s what one customer shared after commissioning a bespoke anniversary hunt:

“Black Cat Treasure Hunts are fantastic. Tim created a bespoke treasure hunt for my brother and sister-in-law for their wedding anniversary. It was just the two of them and they had the most fantastic time. Tim created the perfect treasure hunt for them, and having never been to Brighton myself, I was so impressed by Tim's knowledge of the area. Tim was wonderful to work with, he really tailors the treasure hunts to his clients needs and I very much valued and appreciated how quick he was to respond to any questions I had. My brother and sister-in-law had a marvellous time and I would highly recommend Tim and Black Cat Treasure Hunts for a unique, original gift idea. Tim creates Treasure Hunts that work well for any group and any occasion. It exceeded my expectations – Thank you so much!”

And another lovely comment that captures the spirit of these personalised adventures:

“One of my friends passed on your details, as apparently a trip to Brighton is not complete without one of your treasure hunts!”

These bespoke hunts are often the most rewarding to create — they’re thoughtful, surprising, and tailored to the people who matter most.

What Makes Black Cat Treasure Hunts So Popular

Across teams, hens, birthdays, couples, families, and bespoke events, a few themes come up again and again:

Personalisation — no two hunts are the same
Attention to detail — from clue design to route flow
Clear organisation — making the day easy for organisers
Brighton expertise — weaving the city’s quirks into every clue
Inclusive fun — something everyone can take part in

These testimonials aren’t one-offs — they’re a pattern. And they’re the reason so many groups return for birthdays, anniversaries, and new team events.

You can read even more treasure hunt reviews from teams, hens, families, and couples on my testimonials page.

Plan Your Brighton Treasure Hunt Today

Whether you’re organising a team building day, a hen party, a birthday, or something completely bespoke, I’d love to design a treasure hunt that fits your group perfectly.

Whether you’re organising a team?building day, a hen party, a birthday, or something bespoke, feel free to get in touch to plan your Brighton treasure hunt.

Email: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or call me (Tim or `Black Cat`...depending on how you feel today!) on (01323) 655346.

6 Unusual Reasons to Have a Team Building Treasure Hunt with Black Cat Treasure Hunts

Most companies know the standard reasons for booking a team building activity: improving communication, boosting morale, encouraging collaboration. All good — but hardly surprising. What is surprising is just how many lesser known, slightly quirky, and occasionally brilliant reasons there are to run a team building treasure hunt with Black Cat Treasure Hunts.

If you’re looking for an excuse to get your team out of the office (or you just need to justify it to your finance director), these six unusual motivations might be exactly what you need.

1. You Can Use Up That Awkward End of Year Training Budget

Every business has been there: it’s November, the budget pot is still half full, and if you don’t spend it, you lose it next year. A bespoke treasure hunt is the perfect way to turn “use it or lose it” into something genuinely valuable.

It ticks the training box, strengthens team dynamics, and gives you a memorable experience instead of another forgettable online course. Plus, it’s far easier to organise than a last?minute workshop.

2. It Can Count as a Legitimate Staff Development Activity

A treasure hunt might sound like pure fun, but it’s also a structured learning experience. Teams practise problem?solving, leadership, communication, time management, and strategic thinking — all the things HR loves to see in a development plan.

So yes, you can absolutely justify it as professional development… even if everyone is laughing their way around Brighton’s Lanes at the same time.

3. There May Be Tax Benefits (Really)

Depending on your business structure and location, staff events can sometimes be claimed as a legitimate business expense. Team building activities often fall under staff welfare or training — meaning your treasure hunt could be tax?deductible.

Of course, always check with your accountant, but many companies are pleasantly surprised to discover that a day of fun can also be financially sensible.

4. It’s a Creative Way to Celebrate a Company Milestone Without Throwing a Party

Not every business wants a big party, a bar tab, or a sit?down dinner. A treasure hunt gives you a celebratory experience that feels special without being formal.

Whether you’re marking an anniversary, a product launch, or hitting a major target, a bespoke Black Cat Treasure Hunt turns the occasion into a shared adventure — complete with inside jokes, team photos, and bragging rights.

5. It’s a Morale Booster That Doesn’t Feel Forced

Some team building activities feel like… well, team building activities. A treasure hunt, on the other hand, feels like a day out. It’s playful, surprising, and naturally energising.

Even the sceptics — the ones who normally dread “team bonding” — end up getting competitive, laughing, and secretly loving it. It’s the kind of morale boost that doesn’t need a pep talk to work.

6. It Gives You Ready?Made Content for Social Media and Internal Comms

Let’s be honest: most corporate photos are dull. A treasure hunt changes that instantly.

You get:

Teams posing with quirky Brighton landmarks
Creative challenge photos
Candid moments of teamwork
A gallery of images perfect for LinkedIn, newsletters, or recruitment pages

It’s an easy way to show your company culture in action — not just in words.

To make a start on your team building treasure hunt please contact me (Tim) on: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or call 01323 655346.

Brighton Team Building Treasure Hunts | A Black Cat Adventure

By Tim Carter (Founder of Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

I love writing team building treasure hunts, and with a recent enquiry ringing in literally a minute ago, it seems fate has dictated that I should write a little story for you to give you more of an explanation as to what to expect.

A Day in the Life of a Team on a Brighton Treasure Hunt

Picture this: it’s a grey Thursday morning in the office. Emails are piling up, deadlines loom, and the mood is flat. The boss announces a “team building day” and you can almost hear the collective groan. Everyone’s expecting another round of awkward icebreakers or a PowerPoint-heavy workshop.

But instead, the team finds themselves stepping out into Brighton’s quirky streets, armed with a set of intriguing questions and personalised challenges from Black Cat Treasure Hunts. Suddenly, the day feels different. It’s not about ticking boxes — it’s about adventure. It`s Mission (Im)possible meets Ferris Bueller`s Day Off.

The First Clue: Communication in Action

The group gathers in The Lanes, staring at a cryptic clue that makes no sense at first glance. Someone spots a detail in a shop window, another connects it to the clue, and suddenly the answer clicks.

It’s a small win, but it sets the tone: communication isn’t forced, it’s natural. Everyone’s voice matters, and listening becomes the secret weapon. Back at the office, those same habits make projects flow smoother.

The Unexpected Problem-Solver

Halfway through, the team decides to tackle one of the personalised video challenges. The usual “big talkers” are unsure. Then the quietest member of the group pipes up with a fresh idea — and it works. Using the whole team has created a solution and the points are stacking up!

That moment changes perceptions. Problem-solving isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about creativity and perspective. The treasure hunt proves that innovation often comes from unexpected places.

Laughter That Breaks Down Barriers

As the hunt continues, departments mix in ways they never do at work. Finance is joking with marketing, IT is swapping ideas with HR. A photo challenge has everyone striking ridiculous poses by the seafront.

The laughter is genuine, and the barriers between departments start to crumble. By the end of the day, colleagues who barely spoke before are swapping stories like old friends.

The Brighton Backdrop

Brighton itself becomes part of the adventure. The team discovers hidden gems in the North Laine, stumble across street art they’d never noticed, and soak up the atmoshere of the seafront.

It’s not just a treasure hunt, it’s an exploration.The city adds colour and energy, making the

experience feel bigger than just “team building.”

The Finish Line: Morale Boosted

The final clue leads the team to a tucked-away spot where they celebrate their success. There’s a trophy and medals (I`ll be honest..you probably won better when you were 7!), and the sense of achievement is real.

Back at work, the atmosphere shifts. People are motivated, more connected, and ready to tackle challenges with fresh energy. The treasure hunt wasn’t just fun — it left a lasting impact.

Why Black Cat Treasure Hunts Work

This isn’t theory. It’s what happens every time a team takes on one of my hunts. I design them to:

Spark communication without the corporate jargon.
Encourage creative problem-solving.
Build relationships across departments.
Boost morale in a way that lasts.

And because every company is different, I tailor routes, themes, and challenges to fit your team perfectly. Whether it’s a Brighton Heist Escape Challenge, a Cluedo-style mystery, or a bespoke route, the experience is always unique.

The Story You’ll Tell Afterwards

The best part? Teams don’t just complete the hunt — they leave with stories.

“Remember when we solved that clue in The Lanes?”
“I can’t believe finance nailed the photo challenge!”
“That last question nearly broke us, but we cracked it.”

Those stories become part of the company culture, little reminders of collaboration and fun that resurface long after the event.

Ready for Your Team’s Adventure?

If you’re tired of team building days that feel like a chore, it’s time to try something different. A Black Cat Treasure Hunt in Brighton isn’t just an activity — it’s an experience your team will remember, and one that delivers real workplace benefits.

Email me (Tim): info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or Call: 01323-655346

Let me turn your next team building day into a story worth telling.

Why should you believe Black Cat?!

1. About the Author: Black Cat Treasure Hunts is led by Tim, a Sussex-based creator with over a decade of experience designing bespoke treasure hunts for businesses, varied organisations, language schools, and hen party and birthday celebrations. Recognized by VisitBrighton, I’ve helped hundreds of teams discover Brighton’s hidden gems while building stronger workplace connections.

2. I love getting a review and have 100% 5-star Google reviews and great on website testimonials too. Here is the latest one:
"Just wanted to say thank you for organising the treasure hunt for us. Everyone was very happy and enjoyed it. Will make sure to reach out in the future for any other hunts ?."

3. I have an interesting background that gave me a strong grounding for event organisation. If you have time then read this about me section.

4. The treasure hunts are practical events but based on solid theory. Go `highbrow` and check out the Harvard Business Review on team building or maybe for a quicker (but still researched) article then Black Cat has written his own one on team building research.

Email reminder just in case!...info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk

Treasure Hunts Questions and Answers. From Hen Parties to Team building and Black Cat`s Favourites.

By Tim Carter (Owner at Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

With 2026 just around the corner, here is a questions and answers blog on treasure hunts to help you whilst you consider a booking for an event for next year. Here are some useful questions relating to the different types of treasure hunts that Black Cat Treasure Hunts offers and where they are best done.

Q. Why is Brighton such a good place for a Hen party treasure hunt?
A. Brighton is the most colourful, vibrant place on the South Coast. It has lots to see when you are exploring the place for the first time, from the Lanes (great if you still need a wedding ring!) to the seafront. It lends itself to a wide range of questions from quirky to historical. It is also a compact city which means that you will discover an excellent cross section in the two hours of the treasure hunt. The people are open and friendly here and generally up for helping you with the questions and creative challenges if you need assistance!
Maybe I`m biased but this would be top of my list for Brighton hen do activities to help you get familiarised with a new place.

Q. Do you have any `fun facts` about Brighton as a hen party destination and related hen party planning ?

A. Brighton is always in the top 5 for hen party destinations for Brits..and that includes overseas destinations. There are good reasons for that!

May (21%) followed by April/June and then July are the most popular months for a hen do, with hens planning it on average 6 months in advance.

In terms of organising a hen party in Brighton these are the people most likely to do it:

Maid of Honour – 40% Bridesmaid – 25% Bride – 16% Head Organiser – 12% Other – 7%

Q. Do you recommend anywhere else for a hen party treasure hunt?
A. This year Black Cat has developed hen party treasure hunts in London. The three areas I specialise in are Westminster, Camden and Shoreditch. I don`t need to `sell` London to you, other than to say that the hen party treasure hunts in these places are fast moving and packed with excellent clues and personalised photo and video challenges.
Back in Sussex..if you are looking for some quieter places to go but with similarly intriguing questions then perhaps consider Chichester, Rye or Bognor Regis.

Q. I have been tasked with organising a team building treasure hunt for a work away-day event. How can Black Cat Treasure Hunts cut down on the amount of time I need to spend on this?
A. I can send you a brief booking form that details the basics of the event: the when/where and purpose of the event. This will help me to set a route and then write the questions and challenges. I send you a first draft that will allow you an opportunity to ask for any changes if required. It`s that easy! You can arrange for me to be there on the day and I will do everything from giving out guidelines to setting teams off and commenting on photos taken via WhatsApp to doing all the marking with a presentation and prizes at the end. Outcome...you achieve office hero status for ensuring a really fun team building event...even though it only took you less time than for a couple of tea breaks.

Q. Without thinking, and in no particular order, where have been the best ten treasure hunts Black Cat has organised in the last few years?
A. Ha! Here are my quick fire answers...Brighton obviously ...for all types of treasure hunt. Outside of London it has the best combination of hotels/pubs and restaurants too, so setting start and finish points can lead to original routes as well.
Hastings has been a great choice this year from Norwegian team building to French students and a local birthday. The old town in particular is intriguing.
Chichester is definitely on my list. If you want your team to properly team build then you need to chant "Hail Caesar" on a Roman wall in Chichester!
Lewes for its` history. This is the treasure hunter`s treasure hunt! Apart from team building it is perfect for a birthday treasure hunt even; or maybe especially, for locals.
Bexhill definitely deserves to be in the top 10. It was the site of the largest ever team building treasure hunt in Black Cat history (over 150 participants). Looking for an interesting alternative and particularly if you are based out that way then I would like to hear from you.
Rye! I haven`t said Rye yet. Bit quieter there this year, but deservedly attracted attention in 2024. Cobbled streets and cannon balls...you know it makes sense. Book a Rye treasure hunt in 2026.
Seaford...now...I admit I am a Seaford local but recently I wrote a team building treasure hunt here and it went down a storm with most of the people coming over from Eastbourne. Great scenery, a lot of fun facts to take in and also a peace garden...just in case you need one! Could be good for a birthday treasure hunt too.
Ok, before you get too worried I had better say London. Counting as one for this question but really my best treasure hunts over the last few years have been in Westminster, Shoreditch and Camden. From Nelson Mandela to the great train robbery and on to Amy Winehouse...I think I have you covered for whichever style of treasure hunt you choose. Ooh..there was a great, themed treasure hunt based around gemstones in Marylebone too!
Arundel goes under the radar but it is a very versatile place for a treasure hunt. I would describe it as a small town but with a castle, a cathedral and river views it punches above its weight. Try it for a celebration treasure hunt.
One more...I have done some fun one off`s over the last few years including in Canterbury, inside the V&A and British museums and Cambridge, but for a 10th one then consider East Grinstead. Site of recent birthday and team building treasure hunts, it has options for a whole variety of questions and challenges. The direct train from London is less than an hour away too.

Q. What is the best piece of advice Black Cat can give for booking hen party, team building and language school (or tourist team-building )treasure hunts?
A. Hen party party treasure hunts: Check that the bride likes this type of thing. If she does then this will be the best one she has ever done. If she likes surprises then you can keep how personalised it will be out of the discussion.
Team building treasure hunts: Allow time for the activity in your schedule so that you get the best value for money. The treasure hunts generally last 2 hours plus some time at the start for guidelines and setting teams off and at the end for a relaxing drink and round up with the presentation to the winners.
Language school treasure hunts: Book the treasure hunt directly with me if you can or if you are arranging everything through an agent then please advise them to get in touch with me. I saved a Norwegian group a long walk to the starting point of a Hastings treasure hunt when I found out where they were staying!

Last Q. What is the last piece of advice that you can give that is applicable to all types of treasure hunt bookings?
A. Try and make the booking, or at least the initial enquiry, as far in advance as you can. For a company you may be able to claim this booking as tax deductible and therefore best to check.
For a hen party, I will not send you an invoice until you have seen the first draft, but by agreeing the cost you will be able to factor this in to everyone`s financial commitment to coming.
For a birthday treasure hunt it may be worth discussing whether to split the cost between you (like for a hen party) or if it`s a family treasure hunt giving yourself a budget for everything.
For a foreign visitors group--if it is for students then I tend to do several drafts to ensure the English used is at the right level and any essential (but difficult) words are translated or learnt in advance. For a team building trip that may involve several trips out and about then I can help with a lot of local knowledge on timings. I definitely saved a Spanish group from a timings disaster on one occasion.

To start a treasure hunt booking or enquiry of any type, please contact me (Tim or Black Cat.. as you prefer!) then email me on info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or call (01323) 655346

Treasure hunts awards for 2025. An inspiration for your treasure hunt in 2026.

By Tim Carter (Owner of Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

November is the time of year for my treasure hunt awards 2025. It`s a lot of fun to review the treasure hunts that made the most impact on me this year and to give you some ideas for your own Black Cat treasure hunt in 2026.From hen party treasure hunts to team building treasure hunts, the winners are...

Hen Party Treasure Hunts.

You may ask what components make up the likely winners of this category. Is it the best questions or challenges?.. or the best info and photos supplied by the Maid of Honour/Hen party organiser to help me personalise the treasure hunt?.. or is it the feedback given about how much fun the group had? To be honest it`s probably a mixture of all of these.

A Brighton hen party treasure hunt back in July was for a girl who had performed a leading role in the show, Six, on the West End. This and other information about her experiences in musical theatre led to some lively challenges and fun questions. It also happens that she like the game UNO which made me think you should never hold back funny, contrasting info.

I have had more stag do bookings than normal this year. One of them had a `conclave` theme (as in appointing a Pope). This one went very well and would have been a serious contender had they not decided to limit their Pope and cardinal fancy dress to the Friday night only! To be fair this was an October treasure hunt and they may have been concerned about damaging their hired outfits.
With a lot of the hen party treasure hunts you can tell that the groups really like the bride to be by the kind words they add and the detailed info. Several of these could have been the winner. However, this time the top hen party treasure hunt was one held in Shoreditch that I marked remotely. It was less about the quality and amount of info they sent me, compared to the other ones I have mentioned, but more the fact they sent me a little video clip of the whole group (about 10 people) in the bar at the end raising a glass to me! I didn`t ask for this but it was a very nice gesture to show how much they had enjoyed it.

Team Building Treasure Hunts.
Last year the winning, team building treasure hunt was based on a theme of investigation (and being really hard ha ha!) for a team of investigators! This year the successful treasure hunt came down to, oddly, two recruitment companies on consecutive days. The companies were both from Brighton competing in Brighton. It was quite a week for local pride and glory and it was also noticeable to me that there was a bit of an average age gap between the two companies. I`m sure this was to do with what they were recruiting for, but it didn`t stop either of them being really competitive treasure hunting groups.
Both the groups loved their little plastic cup and medals for the winners. My favourite overall was the company who settled into a smallish pub called The Pump House in The Lanes area of the city for the round up. The banter was flowing between the owner`s team and the other teams taking part. From re-creating a scene out of Pulp Fiction in a night club to utilising an alleyway for a slightly dodgy scene from an older film, set in Brighton, called Quadrophenia it was always going to be tight. I felt they welcomed my attempts at humour and reasons for deciding who got the higher marks. There was a 5* review for this treasure hunt within a few days.
All companies get stuck into the challenges including one with the task of impersonating Narwhals! I should also add honourable mentions to two Norwegian companies who certainly made their mark. Maybe one of them overran a little but the pizza sampling at the end made up for that. I would like to see this trend of overseas team building continue in 2026 if possible. There was also an LGBTQ+ treasure hunt for a running club over from Ireland that certainly made my top 4 or 5 too.

Birthday Treasure Hunts.
There were a few less of these to choose from this year, but the standard was high and it came down to a 40th treasure hunt in Camden near the start of the year against a family one in Hastings. The family party edged it as they also adopted a `Race Across Hastings` theme for the first time as well. Whilst I have completed this style successfully it Brighton, I was not sure how well it would work in Hastings, but I need not have worried as it went down a storm and kept neatly to their timings.
I may have to look carefully at how I title next year`s awards as I still have a couple of birthday treasure hunts planned for late November/early December in Brighton and Westminster. One of these is for a 30th birthday and the other is for a 60th...a group of friends and a family gathering. Whichever way you are choosing to do this I am open to all suggestions.

Non-Sussex Based Treasure Hunts.
With an increase in London treasure hunts, it was useful for me to check back over the bookings I had before making a final decision.
A stag do treasure hunt back in March featured a group of Spaniards making their way around the capital whilst the birthday one I mentioned above had some South African links in the challenges. There were some hen party treasure hunts in London for the first time, including one which was incredibly well organised. I was very tempted to award the winners title to that one, but in the end, I have gone for a multi nation group of students on a language trip.
The date of the treasure hunt had been changed and then the weather forecast was a bit gloomy, even though it was in the middle of Summer. The omens were not looking good for this one and from my remote marking position at home I was beginning to think I would not be needed. However, the students had not come from France, Italy, Belgium and Japan just to be put off by some dark clouds over Westminster Abbey. The teams set off and were keen to use their social media accounts to prove how well they had completed the challenges. The inevitable downpour still had one of the teams completing an impressive Mexican Wave halfway across Waterloo Bridge. My contact with the group had said in advance that she herself had become bored by her guided tours! The day after this she said the students had had so much fun, even though they needed to cut it slightly short, she was looking forward to next year.

That`s it for another year, but if you feel that your birthday or team building event or hen party celebration in 2026 needs to be the best it can be then get in touch with me (Tim or `Black Cat` is fine) to start discussions on making your ideas become reality.
Email: info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk
Phone: (01323) 655346....I know...that`s a real landline number!

If you think I`ve made all of this up, then all I can do is direct you towards my Google Reviews. You haven`t been to Sussex (or London!) if you haven`t completed one of my personalised treasure hunts.

Treasure hunt inspiration for 2026. From themes to inter-business challenges.

By Tim Carter (Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

As the clocks have just gone back this weekend (I kind of forgot but in a good way!)it feels like Autumn has properly begun and Winter will follow close behind. It`s time to look forward to next year in my opinion. It actually feels good rather than strange to write down 2026 for the first time. What is going to happen in the world of Black Cat Treasure Hunts? From themed treasure hunts across the county to Brighton treasure hunts by German students to birthday treasure hunts in Westminster, check out these ideas below to get your planning schedule up and running.

Hen/Sten/Stag/Hag:
Hen party treasure hunts have always been a favourite of mine. Brighton is the perfect location for the majority of bookings in that it has got a bit of everything from the beach to The Lanes, the Royal Pavilion to the quirky North Laine area. Whilst there is often a random male within a hen party group or a token female in a stag group, there has not been quite the `take off` of 50/50 males and females in Sten or Hag parties that I thought there might be. That`s not to say that if you are considering this as an idea you shouldn`t go full steam ahead with it. A mix of male/female teams on a treasure hunt can work brilliantly!
If you are looking for a different vibe to Brighton, then a treasure hunt in Chichester or Lewes or even Rye and Hastings may be worth considering. More of Black Cat Treasure Hunts` bookings in 2025 compared to previous years have been in London though. This includes hen party bookings looking to familiarise themselves with the capital. Westminster has been my top area in 2025 with Shoreditch second.

Themes.
Black Cat has been contacted with a variety of requests for themed treasure hunts over the past twelve months. Birthday treasure hunts fall into this category with the year of birth often being the main focus. A Brighton team building treasure hunt recently asked for some Britpop to feature in their challenges. I was happy to oblige as I was able to view what they came up with when I was remote marking via WhatsApp. A surprise appearance of two team members from behind a tree singing `Parklife` was a particular highlight for me.
I also like to include a challenge for foreign student groups or, indeed, teams of adults from abroad to take a photo or video clip of their team with something that is typical or native to their home country. Austrian students were quick to produce a fine Waltz for high points whilst some Norwegian men sung a very moving, Norwegian love song with a connection to the sea whilst completing a treasure hunt around Hastings. I never fail to be impressed by what different teams will come up with when a theme is introduced.

London.

Ok...let`s address `the elephant in the room`! Black Cat Treasure Hunts is a Sussex based company... Brighton treasure hunts are top of the list for the whole range of treasure hunt options and yet London pops up as a treasure hunt choice!
This is true because some groups, companies and visitors prefer to stay in the capital but would like a Black Cat treasure hunt twist added to their exploration and discovery experience. Westminster has provided hen and stag parties some fun and fast paced treasure hunts this year whilst students and birthdays have also got in on the act. It`s really only in Westminster that on the same treasure hunt you can meet Shrek, Nelson Mandela, Paddington bear, a member of the Royal Household cavalry and Nelson within a couple of hours!
Last year Shoreditch was number one and indeed this year it has been home to some memorable hen party treasure hunts. I can stretch the boundaries sometimes to include the skyscrapers in the financial district or go slightly East for the iconic Brick Lane. Talking of extended treasure hunts I arranged one from Camden to Stratford a few years ago. If you fancy a bit of team building on the way over, then get in touch!

What`s with Hastings?
Each year I seem to have a town (or city) that attracts a good number of enquiries and bookings outside of Brighton/London. Last year was Chichester but this year a Hastings treasure hunt seemed to be on a lot of people`s minds.
The Old Town with its net shops, silvery chess pieces held by sea creatures and odd information about Mickey Mouse`s holiday accommodation is definitely an alternative place for you to consider in 2026. If you go a little bit further west from the Old Town you can discover how Hastings was the birthplace of television and then go slightly inland but upwards you get magnificent views from above and over to the castle ruins too.
Hastings has attracted lots of visitors from abroad. I organised 100 French students on one occasion and then about 30 Norwegians in the pouring rain (over half of the treasure hunt)...although, as Scandanavians, they barely noticed it.

One more idea? Inter- company treasure hunt?
I was thinking about this the other day. Maybe you work in a related business or have clients down from across the country meeting at a conference. Time to get out of the hotel and take each other on at a competitive treasure hunt for not only pride but of course, a magical Black Cat treasure hunt trophy and medals too. I am definitely up for writing an eventful team building treasure hunt that you will remember long after you are back at home basking in the glory of having seen off your work rivals.

Make your 2025 idea come to reality in 2026 by contacting Tim (Black Cat!) on info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or call him on (01323) 655346. England is + 0044 for my landline from Europe.

What is your holiday must do list? How a Black Cat treasure hunt can help you in Sussex

By Tim Carter (Owner of Black Cat Treasure Hunts)

This time last year, I wrote a treasure hunt blog comparing the treasure hunt possibilities in Split, where I had just taken a short holiday, to my treasure hunts in Sussex where similar options may occur but not necessarily all in the same place. This year I have not had a holiday (I know, I know...I`m trying to hold back the tears!) but I have got one booked for next year (in Mexico..yay!..thanks for asking!). We are meeting up with two people, one of whom is Mexican, in Mexico City and they have asked, "What do you like doing?" "What sort of thing do you want to see?" Fairly reasonable questions you might think but they also made me consider whether my treasure hunts across Sussex would be able to accommodate the broad number of answers you might get to those types of questions. The answer to that is of course...it depends!
Here are some of our `requests/demands` for next year`s holiday with how that type of thing features in a Black Cat treasure hunt.

1. "We like a bit of history"...
This is easily accommodated in a Black Cat treasure hunt. Sussex has an interesting history represented in many ways across places that you can have a Black Cat treasure hunt in.
Lewes, for example, from Thomas Paine, whose writings influenced the American Revolution to a fine Norman castle and from Anne Boleyn`s (of Henry VIII`s wives fame) house to the fascinating monastery ruins, the town has so much to offer along a classic treasure hunt route.
My Hastings treasure hunt covers history in a unique way by looking at the fishing influences, think net shops and Shipwrecks Museum, which enhance the exploration and search for answers to the questions.
Eastbourne can rely on diverse historical influences with its Martello tower ready to protect the country against Napoleon to its ornate bandstand area. A musician has a plaque behind the lower seated area in recognition of playing on The Titanic. The Pier managed to feature in the film Brighton Rock because it looked more `of the era` than Brighton`s pier! All these things would be quietly inserted into a Black Cat treasure hunt.

2. "We`ve heard the street art is a must see?"...
It`s hard to look past Brighton in this respect. The musicians` mural on the Prince Albert is incredible, street artists with big reputations such as The Postman and Glimmer Twin are seen across the city from the quirky North Laine to the seafront. I love to include questions about what you can see or read in the street art whenever a treasure hunt is required in Brighton. New art is visible all the time, which could be a superhero eating a pizza, or the LGBTQ influences in Kemptown to ones celebrating local heroes. It`s also a wonderful way to use less well-known streets that a tour guide does not have time to show you.
This is not to say that Brighton is the only place for street art on a treasure hunt route. Bognor Regis has a superb David Bowie, whilst Chichester has some intriguing ones too, including a Black Cat I`m pleased to say!

3. "We`d like to go to a local music/dance show."

A Black Cat treasure hunt will endeavour to pass local music venues and references to well-known musicians. It`s a compact way to familiarise yourself with a place and make notes of where you might want to go back to.
A personalised treasure hunt or a team building treasure hunt are often going to get your team singing and dancing where appropriate as well. In Brighton there is a musicians tunnel with murals of all the singers and bands who have had an influence on the Brighton music scene. This has produced many highlights for the person marking the treasure hunt...me!
Groups from abroad bring their own unique influences to bear on a treasure hunt challenge. I give full rein to Austrian Waltz`, Dutch football dances and French Can-Can`s when and where appropriate!

4. "We`d like to see something unique about the city."
This is a definite goal of any Black Cat treasure hunt, whether it is in a village, town or city.
Rye has a steep, cobbled street with houses that have funny names. Alfriston takes in a view that inspired the hymn, `Morning Has Broken`. Worthing has pictures of Oscar Wilde and information about local lifeboats inscribed on large slabs of slate. Chichester has Roman walls. These features give endless opportunities for questions, challenges and engaging first time visitors.
Some of my Sussex treasure hunts waste no time in drawing attention to a place`s claim to fame. Bexhill is the home to British motor racing and there are numerous monuments, sculptures and plaques that enable questions about this fact. Hastings boasts of being home to where the television was invented. and although it takes a bit more time to discover how this came about, when you are pointed in the right direction you will love all the details.

5. "We would like to try the local food and drink."
Similar to covering all the special streets and must-see buildings this one is a regular requirement for tourists.
Black Cat can not only devise routes that pass a wide selection of food and drink outlets, but he can also make recommendations or send you the most appropriate website links. In personalised treasure hunts you can choose your own start and finish points. These often use a restaurant or pub as the perfect places to either set off from or to conclude whilst the marking is completed.
I like to be given the option to choose sometimes. A Brighton treasure hunt will gravitate to the beachfront bars in the Summer or the ones with the best roof top beer gardens away from the front. Quirky bars are easy to find too. Sussex towns like to mention their smuggling connections and the pubs in Alfriston have that feel of secret business going on.

This all sounds very encouraging...are there any questions...maybe more specific...of your impending trip to Mexico which you have failed to find an alternative to in one of your Sussex treasure hunts?

6. "Will we have time to see a Luche Libre?"...
Luche Libre means `free fight` and relates to the professional wrestling scene in Mexico. It is very unique and the wrestlers where colourful masks relating to their characters. There is a story element to the fight too as you can cheer the hero and boo the villain. These events are extremely popular, and you can even make or buy your own masks to wear during the fights whilst also sampling the local foods. The loser of the fight must remove their mask! Quite the humiliation.
At the moment I am not aware of anything similar on any route I have devised for Black Cat Treasure Hunts! I sincerely apologise (ha!)..so maybe I should make this a suggestion to local entertainment organisations!

Do you have `must do` things to see and do on holiday? Let me know and I will see if I can incorporate them in some way on a Black Cat treasure hunt.

Contact me (Tim) on info@blackcattreasurehunts.co.uk or call me on 01323 655346. Start your personalised or bespoke treasure hunt today.