CONTESTANTS will step back in time to crack clues and solve puzzles in a new outdoor adventure game being launched in Cumbria.

In association with English Heritage, the Escape Games Company is launching the challenge in June at Shap Abbey and Penrith Castle.

Participants work together in small groups to solve puzzles and crack clues inspired by the compelling heritage of the sites.

There will be actors in full costume to help bring the games to life for the players.

Owner and founder Ian Cox said: “We are really excited to launch our games at these two amazing heritage sites in Cumbria. Our objective is to help bring these magnificent locations to life with fun, energising games founded in fact and inspired by the past.”

As every game is outside, there is also a strong emphasis on physical as well as mental wellbeing.

“After months of lockdown and inordinate amounts of time spent in front of screens, we wanted to provide activities that support people’s physical and mental health,” Mr Cox said.

“Our problem-solving games will bring the feel-good factor and plenty of active fun and excitement in amazing, heritage locations.” The games are expected to appeal to a broad audience including families and friends of all ages, along with school groups and work outings for team building activities."

Last summer, 95 per cent of players said that they would recommend the experience, taken at Berkhamsted Castle, the company had a successful showcase at an English Heritage site in Hertfordshire.

The games in Cumbria and throughout the UK will be delivered under the ‘Adventure Out! Games’ brand, which focuses on outdoor, escape-style themed games in similar dramatic sites around England.

Covid safety will remain in place, with all activities outside and all clues and props cleaned and sanitised after every game.

The sizes of groups and the number of households allowed to mix will also be adhered to depending on the latest Covid restrictions.

Visit adventureoutgames.co.uk