Augmented reality trail offers free family Christmas fun

Published Friday, 9th December 2022

A free Christmas story trail using augmented reality technology is offering families across Hartlepool a whole host of festive fun.

Active Hartlepool has teamed up with High Street Safari, a specialist outdoor geo-games company, to create the trail around the town centre.

Hunt for the Lost Toys consists of ten vinyl window characters with QR codes that local businesses and cultural and public venues are hosting. All you need to take part is a smartphone and you can start the trail by scanning the QR code on any of the characters. There is no need to download or sign up to anything

Participants not only hunt down missing Christmas presents along the route, but they also make story choices and chose their adventure style. At each stop along the way, they can “release” the cheeky Christmas Imps and see them burst to life in augmented reality. They will receive a digital fun pack upon completion.

Paula Carroll, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Participation Manager, said: “The idea is to encourage families to come into Hartlepool with a free, exiting train that gets kids out of the house and walking.”

The trail takes about 45 minutes, but it can be completed in more than one visit. It will remain in operation until the New Year.

For more information visit www.highstreetsafari.com