Pokemon Go has launched a new summer quest that takes players to National Trust sites across the UK, including Birmingham's Back to Backs.
Quest Details and Rewards
The collaboration between Niantic and the National Trust runs from July 1 to September 30, 2024. Players who visit participating National Trust properties can complete in-game tasks to earn exclusive rewards, such as special Pokemon encounters and items.
In Birmingham, the Back to Backs on Hurst Street is one of the featured locations. This historic site offers a glimpse into the lives of working-class families in the 19th and 20th centuries. Players can explore the area while hunting for Pokemon and completing the quest.
How to Participate
To take part, players need to open the Pokemon Go app and look for the special event tab. The quest involves spinning PokeStops at National Trust sites, catching certain Pokemon, and completing other tasks. Rewards include a new avatar item and increased encounters with specific Pokemon.
According to the National Trust, the partnership aims to encourage people to explore the outdoors and learn about heritage sites. "We're delighted to work with Pokemon Go to bring a new generation of visitors to our properties," said a National Trust spokesperson.
List of Participating Sites in the West Midlands
- Back to Backs, Birmingham
- Baddesley Clinton, Warwickshire
- Kinwarton Dovecote, Warwickshire
- Moseley Old Hall, Wolverhampton
- Wightwick Manor, Wolverhampton
Impact on Local Tourism
The initiative is expected to boost footfall at National Trust sites, which have seen a decline in visitors since the pandemic. In 2023, the National Trust reported a 15% drop in visitors compared to pre-pandemic levels. The Pokemon Go collaboration could help reverse this trend by attracting younger audiences.
Pokemon Go, launched in 2016, still has a dedicated player base. The game's augmented reality features encourage physical activity and exploration, aligning with the National Trust's mission to connect people with nature and history.
