Adventure brief
Beano: The Outdoor Game (Manchester)
Take on a lively 90-minute urban adventure in Manchester with the Beano Outdoor Game—help Dennis and friends find Gnasher by solving puzzles across the city’s flat, family-friendly routes. Perfect for all ages and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
In the heart of Manchester’s bustling city center, the Beano Outdoor Game offers a fresh twist on urban family adventures. Starting on Corporation Street (M4 3BG), this 90-minute activity invites participants of all ages to step into the world of Dennis the Menace and his loyal dog, Gnasher. Instead of a typical stroll through Manchester’s iconic streets, players engage in an interactive hunt, solving puzzles and following clues as they assist Dennis and friends in tracking down the mischievous Gnasher.
Manchester’s cityscape sets the stage for this urban game, weaving through pedestrian-friendly routes that span roughly 2.5 to 3 miles. The walking route highlights key spots near Cathedral Gardens—known for its modern landscaping and public art—and concludes outside the vibrant Printworks entertainment complex, offering plenty of photo ops along the way. With generally flat terrain and no steps involved, the game accommodates wheelchairs and stroller users, making the experience accessible for families and groups with younger children.
What makes Beano Outdoor Game particularly special is its fusion of classic British comic culture with an engaging outdoor activity, appealing to locals and visitors seeking a playful yet relaxed exploration of Manchester’s urban environment. The game is designed to keep younger players entertained with age-appropriate puzzles while allowing adults to take breaks for snacks and pauses wherever suits their pace. Operated by Beano Outdoor Game, this family-friendly experience brings a unique dimension to Manchester’s outdoor recreation scene—it isn’t about distance or speed but about imagination, teamwork, and lighthearted challenge.
With no strict time limits, the adventure suits casual walkers wanting to connect with the city’s lively streetscape in a novel way, making it a standout option for a rain-or-shine day out in England’s northern city.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Charge Your Phone Fullyessential
The game requires a smartphone with the app installed; bring a power bank to avoid interruptions.
- 02Wear Comfortable Walking Shoesinfo
Expect to cover around 2.5 to 3 miles on foot—comfortable shoes will keep you going strong.
- 03Dress for the Weatheressential
Manchester’s unpredictable weather calls for layered clothes and a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
- 04Start Daylight Hoursinfo
For safety and better visibility during the game, plan to begin in daylight and finish before dusk.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Smartphone with App Installed
Required to access clues and track progress throughout the game.
EssentialComfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for walking several miles on urban pavement comfortably.
EssentialWaterproof Jacket or Umbrella
Protects against Manchester’s frequent rain showers.
spring|fall|winterEssentialPower Bank
Keeps your phone charged during the 90-minute game without interruptions.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Cathedral Gardens' contemporary urban art installations, Historical Victorian arcades near Printworks
Local fauna
Common urban pigeons, Sparrows and city-dwelling birds frequenting green spaces
Historic heritage
Cathedral Gardens is a modern public square developed in the 1990s, situated near Manchester Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest landmarks dating back to the Middle Ages.
Mindful exploration
The game promotes sustainable urban recreation by encouraging walking and supporting pedestrian-friendly routes that reduce city pollution.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Cathedral Gardens open spaces, Outside Printworks with its striking architecture, Along Corporation Street capturing the city’s street life
- Subjects
- Urban landscapes, Street art and sculptures, Family moments during game challenges
- Best times
- Morning light, Golden hour, Overcast daylight
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is the game suitable for young children?
Yes, the game is designed for children as young as 4, with puzzles most suitable for ages 6–10, accompanied by an adult.
Can this game be played wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the route is generally flat with no steps, making it accessible to wheelchair users.
Do I need data to play the game?
You should download the app and game via Wi-Fi before the adventure; once downloaded, no mobile data is needed during play.
Is there a time limit to complete the game?
No, the game has no time limit—you can take breaks and finishes at your own pace within the booked day.
Where does the game start and finish?
The game starts in the middle of Cathedral Gardens and finishes outside the Printworks complex.
What if I get stuck on a puzzle?
Hints are built into the app to assist you whenever you need, keeping the game enjoyable and frustration-free.