Residents, families and visitors are invited to uncover hidden treasures, win fantastic prizes and discover the independent businesses that make Gloucester special.
An exciting city-wide treasure hunt is coming to Gloucester this summer, and everyone is invited to take part.
As part of Independents Week 2026, Gloucester BID is launching the Quest for the Keys, a thrilling scavenger hunt that will see hidden keys placed inside independent businesses across the city centre, giving participants the chance to unlock fantastic prizes while exploring Gloucester’s vibrant independent scene.
From 29th June to 5th July, five keys will be hidden every day in different independent businesses throughout the city. Armed with clues released on Gloucester BID’s Facebook and Instagram channels, treasure hunters will need to follow the trail, search high and low, and be among the first to discover the hidden keys.
But this is about much more than prizes.
The Quest for the Keys has been created to celebrate the incredible independent businesses that bring character, creativity and community spirit to Gloucester. From unique retailers and artisan makers to welcoming cafés, restaurants and service providers, Gloucester’s independents are the heartbeat of the city centre, helping create a destination unlike anywhere else.
Every key discovered represents an opportunity to step inside a local business, discover somewhere new and show support for the entrepreneurs who invest their passion, creativity and hard work into Gloucester every day.
Participants could unlock a range of exciting prizes, including:
- Gloucester Gift Cards worth between £10 and £50
- A £20 voucher for Spago Gloucester
- A £50 e-voucher for Coal Kitchen
With free participation, daily clues, hidden treasures and prizes to be won, the Quest for the Keys promises a week of adventure for families, residents, visitors and anyone looking for a fun way to explore the city.
Izzy Townsend, Marketing Assistant at Gloucester BID, said:
“Independent businesses are what give Gloucester its unique personality and sense of place. Through Quest for the Keys, we’re inviting people to discover hidden gems, revisit favourite local businesses and experience the incredible variety our city has to offer. Every visit, purchase and interaction helps support local businesses and contributes to a thriving city centre. We hope residents and visitors alike will embrace the challenge, enjoy the adventure and celebrate everything that makes Gloucester special.”
The Quest for the Keys forms part of Gloucester BID’s annual Independents Week campaign, which shines a spotlight on the independent businesses that play such an important role in Gloucester’s economy and community.
To be among the first to receive clues, participants are encouraged to follow Gloucester BID on social media throughout the week.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GloucesterBID
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gloucester_bid/
For more information about Quest for the Keys visit www.gloucesterbid.uk/quest_for_the_keys/
To find out more about Independents Week 2026 visit www.gloucesterbid.uk/independents-week/
