FAMILIES in Salisbury are being invited to step into a real-life Easter adventure as the city centre transforms into an interactive digital playground.

A brand-new augmented reality (AR) trail, The Great Egg-Scape, has launched across the city, turning shop windows into magical story stops where characters spring to life through a smartphone screen.

Running from March 25 to April 15, the free trail sees families join the “Doggie Detectives” on a mission to rescue the Easter Bunny’s missing friends.

To crack the case, participants must track down ten hidden locations, scanning QR codes to unlock animated 3D characters, clues and surprises along the way.

Stops include well-known businesses such as Bradbeers, Reeve the Baker and Stones Kitchen Café, encouraging families to explore Salisbury’s high street while taking part.

Players can interact with the characters, shape how the story unfolds and even snap egg-stravagant selfies or videos to share online.

(Picture: Salisbury BID)

Experience Salisbury manager at Salisbury BID Becca said: “We are delighted to launch a new trail in Salisbury City Centre this Easter. It’s free to take part and will encourage families to spend time together exploring our wonderful city and its brilliant businesses.”

The experience has been created in partnership with High Street Safari, a company specialising in interactive trails designed to bring high streets to life.

Project director at High Street Safari Stephen Blackwell added: “We believe in ‘magic without the friction.’ By bringing these Easter characters to life in AR, we’re giving children a reason to look up from their screens and engage with their local high street in a way that feels like a real-life video game.

“There’s no app to download and no sign-up required – just pure, instant fun.”

Those who complete the trail and find all ten characters will unlock a digital prize pack, including an illustrated eBook that finishes the story, and can enter a giveaway to win an Easter hamper filled with treats from local independent businesses.

Families can start the trail at any participating location, with flyers also available at Salisbury Information Centre and Salisbury Library.