The Great Elf Investigation: keeping children entertained for free this Christmas
Festive walking trail launches in Southampton city centre
Last updated 24th Nov 2022
Little helpers can help Father Christmas search for lost toys in a festive trail in Southampton city centre.
The Great Elf Investigation is a free family walking trail running from 25 November until 3 January.
The toys have been stolen by some cheeky elves and children are needed to find the missing gifts.
Luckily, while playing with the toys, the elves got a little carried away and started taking 'elf-ies’ with the stolen goods.
It is up to families to spot the photo evidence in Southampton city centre’s shop windows.
Separated into two routes, trail-goers will have the chance to explore both the north and south poles of the city.
Participants can either draw or write down their answers.
They can then go to MAST Mayflower Studios in the cultural quarter, or room2 hotel near Queen’s Park, to receive a special prize in return for their hard work.
Jan Goatley, headteacher at Southampton's Maytree Infants School, said: "We enjoy and value of learning inside and outside the classroom.
"This walking trail provides a great opportunity for children and their families to stay active over the Christmas break, spend quality time with one another and explore Southampton."
Trail maps that form part of the wider Southampton Christmas guide are being put into over 8,000 primary school pupils' bookbags.
The maps will also be available to download and print at home.
Visitors will also be able to pick one up in a number of venues including Westquay Shopping Centre, The Marlands Shopping Centre and Southampton Central train station.
Stephen Manion, Executive Director at GO! Southampton said: "There’s no doubt many of us will be looking for easy, cost-effective things to do to keep the kids entertained this Christmas.
"With this free trail, we hope to bring a bit of festive cheer to residents and visitors, while also ensuring that people keep coming into the city in the run up to December 25th to support local businesses."
The trail will be open from 9am - 4pm Monday – Saturday, and 11am - 4pm on Sunday.
All shops hosting clues will either be open or will have their clues clearly displayed in their windows.