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Portsmouth Treasure Hunt Mystery: Nelson’s Stolen Diamonds

Calling all mystery seekers! Portsmouth, an idyllic British coastal city, hides a centuries-old secret involving diamonds and a memorable naval commander. Together with Admiral Lord Nelson, you can unravel this mysterious, centuries-old whodunit. But first, let’s explore exactly what happened.

What is the Portsmouth Treasure Hunt Mystery?

In 1793, the city of Portsmouth was rocked by a robbery. Thugs had robbed Admiral Lord Nelson of one of his prized possessions- a diamond locket containing three diamonds. The thief was never caught, and the diamonds have been lost to the ages. Could these diamonds have been passed down through the generations, buried in an old treasure chest, or remain ensconced within a Portland stone wall?

Who is Admiral Lord Nelson?

Admiral Lord Nelson was a British naval commander and hero of the Napoleonic Wars. He is most famous for leading the British fleet to victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Following his death in battle, he was honored with a state funeral and burial at St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Story Behind the Stolen Diamonds

Admiral Lord Nelson and his wife, Lady Emma Hamilton, had returned from the Battle of the Nile around 1800. After the monumental victory, many of those in high society gifted the victorious admiral with lavish presents, including a beautiful diamond locket. The locket consisted of three diamonds: two were from the British Crown and the third from King Louis XVI (defeated by Napoleon). Together, these three diamonds were valued at almost £500,000 in 2020 money.

Unfortunately, a mere three years after receiving the locket, it was no longer in Nelson’s possession. It had been stolen during a robbery in Portsmouth, and it has never been seen or heard of since. There was conjecture that it may have been broken up and made into several pieces of jewelry in order to be sold on the black market, or that it had been smuggled out of England on a boat crossing the Atlantic (which made it much harder to trace). Whatever happened to it, unfortunately, remains a mystery to this day!

The Search for the Stolen Diamonds

For centuries, people have been searching unsuccessfully for the stolen diamonds. In 2019, Get Your Guide launched an immersive treasure hunt around Old Portsmouth just for this reason- to retell Nelson’s story and to try to uncover the lost diamonds. Tourists and locals alike can explore historic sites such as mooring spots where Nelson boarded his ships and alleyways which were rumoured to be hiding places for smugglers in search of Nelson’s lost locket.

The game includes multiple puzzles and clues along the way which can be solved in teams or solo-seekers. Participants can opt for physical clues or augmented reality tools for extra help if needed. The treasure hunt also includes real-life objects and stories which are specific to Lord Nelson’s journey through life in Old Portsmouth, giving players an even more immersive experience.

At the end of the hunt, participants have the chance to take home their own Nelson wooden trinket box. It’s complete with a trinket bag containing replica toy diamonds made especially to fit inside- just in case they stumble upon something unexpected during their search!

The Answer to Portsmouth’s Treasure Hunt Mystery

As of now, Richard Branson’s non-profit organization Virgin Unite has offered a reward of up to $75 000 for information leading to the return of Nelson’s diamonds. Despite this generous offer, it seems that Admiral Nelson’s precious diamonds remain elusive to this day.

Through Get Your Guide’s immersive Treasure Hunt around Old Portsmouth, tourists and locals alike can still be part of Admiral Lord Nelson’s historic story and learn more about his journey through life. Participants are able to explore historic sites such as mooring spots where he boarded his ships as well as alleyways in pursuit of rediscovering these priceless diamonds, all while solving puzzles along the way and enjoying an immersive experience replete with real-life objects and stories.

Although it remains uncertain if we’ll ever find out where these diamonds have gone, one thing is certain- this is still an exciting mystery to tackle! For those looking for an exciting activity full of puzzles and clues while learning more about Lord Nelson’s legacy- the Portsmouth Old Portsmouth Pub History Treasure Hunt is definitely a must-do!

An Insider’s Guide to Portsmouth: Discovering Hidden Gems and Solving Mysteries

As the home of the famous Portsmouth Treasure Hunt Mystery, Portsmouth is a city that is steeped in history, mystery, and adventure. While many tourists may flock to the city’s more famous attractions, such as the Spinnaker Tower or HMS Victory, those who venture off the beaten path will find an array of hidden gems that few tourists know about. Here is an insider’s guide to Portsmouth that will introduce you to the city’s best-kept secrets.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Portsmouth is home to some of the most iconic attractions in England, such as the Historic Dockyard or the Mary Rose Museum, but if you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, then make sure to check out the following hidden gems:

– Cumberland House Natural History Museum: Located in the heart of Southsea, this charming museum offers visitors the chance to explore the region’s rich natural history.

– Eastney Beam Engine House: A beautifully restored Victorian beam engine that once provided the city’s water supply.

– Fratton Park: Home to the city’s beloved football team, Portsmouth FC, this stadium is steeped in history and tradition.

Dining Spots: Savouring Portsmouth’s Local Cuisine

Portsmouth is renowned for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants serving up the freshest catch of the day. But beyond seafood, the city is home to a range of diverse cuisines, from traditional English pubs to international flavours. Here are some of our top picks:

– The Still and West: A historic pub with stunning views of the harbour and a menu full of traditional English dishes.

– The Southsea Deli: A family-run deli that offers a delicious range of sandwiches, salads, and cakes.

– The Belle Isle: A cozy bar with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a craft beer or a delicious cocktail.

Cultural Experiences: Uncovering Portsmouth’s Rich Heritage

From music festivals to art exhibitions, Portsmouth is a city that is brimming with cultural experiences. Here are some events and attractions that will give you a deeper understanding of the city’s traditions and customs:

– The D-Day Story: An engaging museum that tells the story of the Normandy landings and their impact on the city.

– Victorious Festival: Held annually in August, this music festival brings together some of the biggest names in the music industry.

– Aspex Gallery: An innovative art gallery that showcases contemporary artworks from around the world.

Local History: Uncovering Portsmouth’s Sordid Past

With a history that spans back over 800 years, Portsmouth is a city that is full of fascinating stories and events. Whether you’re interested in military history or tales of pirates and smugglers, here are some stories that are not to be missed:

– The Portsmouth Treasure Hunt Mystery: A thrilling tale of stolen diamonds and lost treasure that has captivated visitors for years.

– The Battle of Jutland: The biggest naval battle in history was fought off the coast of Portsmouth, leaving a lasting impact on the city.

– The Fighting Temeraire: This historic ship, made famous by J.M.W. Turner’s iconic painting, was once docked in Portsmouth Harbour and played a significant role in the Battle of Trafalgar.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Seeking Adventure and Mystery in Portsmouth

For those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, Portsmouth has plenty to offer in terms of adventure and mystery. Here are some ideas for off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to leave an impression:

– Escape Room: Channel your inner detective and solve a series of challenging puzzles to escape from a locked room.

– Ghost Tour: Take a tour of Portsmouth’s most haunted locations and discover the city’s spooky side.

– Kayak Tour: Explore the city’s waterways and see Portsmouth from a unique perspective, while getting in a bit of exercise.

In conclusion, Portsmouth is a city that is full of history, culture, and adventure for those willing to explore beyond the obvious. By discovering the city’s hidden gems and delving into its mysteries, visitors can have an unforgettable experience that will continue to captivate and inspire them for years to come.