The Vault
Bedford, BedfordshireAbout The Vault
In 2021, Bedford Creative Arts commissioned Julian Beever, a world-renowned illusion artist, to create an illusionary 3D artwork at the site of the Old Bank in Bedford, thus creating The Vault Game. The Vault Game is an interactive, outdoor, augmented reality puzzle that explores key landmarks and invites viewers to learn about Bedford High Street in a fun and interactive way. It is located on the site of the Old Bank in Bedford town centre and is based on the local urban myth that a bank vault is still buried underneath the site. Users scan the QR code on the plaque next to the floor mural and follow prompts to crack codes using elements of the High Street and reveal the treasures which lie beneath!
Learn about Bedford's history by solving clues along the high street
By scanning the pink QR code located on the signpost next to the mural, using any internet-connected device, you can crack the Vault using codes collected by visiting the high street and solving fun challenges. By doing this, the player can uncover what is lying beneath Bedford's Vault. It is historical, educational and encourages families to discover more about the town in a modern, user-friendly way.
A family-friendly augmented reality game, combining art and technology
In 2021, Bedford Creative Arts commissioned Julian Beever, a world-renowned illusion artist, to create an illusionary 3D artwork at the site of the Old Bank in Bedford. The Vault Game is an interactive puzzle that explores key landmarks and invites viewers to learn about the high street in a fun and interactive way. The game is based on a local urban myth that a bank vault is still buried underneath the site of the old bank.
Facilities
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, Open 24 hours
- Tuesday, Open 24 hours
- Wednesday, Open 24 hours
- Thursday, Open 24 hours
- Friday, Open 24 hours
- Saturday, Open 24 hours
- Sunday, Open 24 hours
As this is an outdoor mural, the attraction can be visited at any time and the game is also playable at any time of day, using the visitors' device.
Pricing & Tickets
- Adult (0-18+) : Free
This is a free attraction and does not require any downloads or purchases to take part.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to The Vault by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
The Vault
St Paul's Square
Bedford
Bedfordshire
MK40 1SL
England
Based on the south-east corner of St Paul's Square, the floor-based mural is on a flat concreted area opposite Nando's.
Tel: 01234818670
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The Vault Reviews
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