This summer, Marlow Museum is inviting families, residents and visitors to discover the town in a new way with the launch of the Marlow Treasure Hunt, created in partnership with local business Ace Places, creators of the Marlow Playing Cards.
Launching on Friday 31 July and running until 31 December 2026, the self-guided trail takes participants on a journey through Marlow’s streets, uncovering hidden clues, fascinating local stories and some of the independent businesses that make the town so special.
To celebrate the launch, Marlow Museum will also host a special children’s edition of Ace Places’ popular Card Club at the new Pop-Up Museum (in the Church Hall, next to the George & Dragon) on Friday 31 July from 10am–2pm. The free drop-in session will include treasure hunt-themed crafts and activities before families set off to complete the trail.
The treasure hunt has been developed to complement the Museum’s new Pop-Up Museum, open from 25 July until 4 September, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm. Supported by the Rothschild Foundation, the Pop-Up Museum brings Marlow’s rich history into the heart of the town, making it more accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Treasure hunt maps are available exclusively from Marlow Museum for £3.50, with 50p from every map sold going directly to the Museum to support its work preserving and sharing Marlow’s heritage.
The beautifully illustrated trail visits eleven locations across Marlow, where participants collect hidden letters before unscrambling them to reveal a secret two-word phrase. Along the way they’ll discover intriguing stories about the town’s history and enjoy exclusive offers from participating independent businesses.
Everyone who completes the trail can enter a prize draw featuring generous prizes donated by local businesses including Sorbon Estates, Flow Yoga, Creative Collective and Jane Douglass Fitness & Dance. Every successful treasure hunter will also receive a limited-edition Marlow fridge magnet to commemorate their adventure.
Alice Le Page, Manager of Marlow Museum, said:
“We’re delighted to be working with Ace Places to launch the Marlow Treasure Hunt alongside our Pop-Up Museum. This summer is all about encouraging people to explore Marlow, discover its stories and celebrate everything that makes our town unique.
The treasure hunt is a wonderful family activity that combines local history with exploration and supports both the Museum and our fantastic independent businesses. We’re particularly grateful that every map sold will help fund the Museum and our ongoing work within the community.”
The treasure hunt has been created by Ace Places, whose illustrated Marlow Playing Cards have sold more than 6,500 packs, celebrating 54 local businesses, charities and landmarks while raising money for Longridge Activity Centre.
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Emma Sweet, founder of Ace Places, said:
“We’ve loved working with Marlow Museum on this project. The treasure hunt is all about encouraging people to slow down, look a little closer and discover the stories, businesses and hidden gems that make Marlow such a brilliant place to spend time.
Launching alongside the Pop-Up Museum felt like the perfect partnership because we’re both passionate about helping people connect with the town in fun, meaningful ways.”
The Marlow Treasure Hunt launches on Friday 31 July and continues until 31 December 2026.
Children and families are also invited to the free Card Club launch event at the Marlow Museum Pop-Up Museum on Friday 31 July, 10am–2pm.
Treasure hunt maps cost £3.50 and are available exclusively from Marlow Museum, with 50p from every map sold supporting the Museum.