Secrets and Shortcuts in Bloodborne: Complete Walkthrough

28 April 2025

Are you ready to dive into the chilling world of Bloodborne but feel a little overwhelmed by its treacherous streets and cryptic design? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Bloodborne is infamous for its difficulty and secret-laden map, but that’s also what makes it one of the most brilliant and satisfying games out there. The game is layered with shortcuts, hidden paths, and secrets that can make your journey through Yharnam significantly less punishing.

This guide is your lantern in the darkness. We're going to walk through some of the most useful secrets and shortcuts in Bloodborne, breaking it all down in an easy-to-follow manner so you can master the nightmare without losing your sanity.

Why Shortcuts and Secrets Matter in Bloodborne

Bloodborne isn’t designed like your typical game. There’s no hand-holding, no obvious “HERE’S THE WAY TO GO” markers. Instead, it’s a labyrinthian map full of twisted alleys, locked gates, and enemies that make you question all your life choices.

Shortcuts? They’re lifesavers. They can save you countless hours of running through the same area over and over again. Finding a shortcut feels like discovering buried treasure—it’s that satisfying. And the secrets? They’re the spice of the game. Hidden areas often hold incredibly useful upgrades, weapons, or lore that enrich your experience.

So, buckle up, Hunter. Let’s uncover some of these lifesaving secrets and time-saving shortcuts.

Central Yharnam: Your First Taste of Shortcut Heaven

The Iconic Ladder

Soon after stepping into Central Yharnam, you’ll notice how brutal the enemies are. The first big crowd of mobs is enough to make you want to throw your controller halfway across the room. But don’t miss the ladder shortcut near the area’s giant bonfire.

After defeating the two werewolves on the bridge (or cheesing them by luring them to the doorway), unlock the ladder that connects the bridge to the earlier lantern. This single shortcut saves you from battling through hordes of enemies every time you need to return after using the Hunter’s Dream.

The Sewer Path

Another critical shortcut involves the infamous sewer system. If you drop down into the aqueduct area, you can find a ladder that leads directly back to the first zone. It might take some careful maneuvering, but trust me—this creates a convenient loop to avoid going the long way around.

The First Boss: Cleric Beast Shortcut

The Cleric Beast is a wake-up call for new players. This towering, nightmarish creature feels nearly impossible the first time you face it. But here’s the good news: there’s a shortcut!

After unlocking the gate near the lantern in Central Yharnam, you can open up a path that takes you straight to the Cleric Beast without running through the mobs on the bridge. This shortcut ensures you can focus on learning the boss fight mechanics without unnecessary stress.

Cathedral Ward: The Key to Efficiency

Unlocking the Upper Cathedral Ward

One of Bloodborne’s lesser-known secrets involves the locked Upper Cathedral Ward. To unlock it, you’ll need the Upper Cathedral Key, which you can find in the Healing Church Workshop. This area opens up new paths, tougher enemies, and more lore-building opportunities.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to utilize the circular shortcut elevator in Cathedral Ward. It’s easy to miss, but it becomes invaluable as you progress deeper into Yharnam.

Forbidden Woods: The Maze Solver

The Forbidden Woods feels like a fever dream, doesn’t it? It’s one giant maze of winding paths, snakes, and ambushing enemies. This is where shortcuts become your best friend.

The Windmill Elevator

There’s an elevator hidden in the Forbidden Woods near the giant windmill. Unlocking it creates a direct route from the main lantern to the Shadows of Yharnam boss fight. This shortcut is a game-changer because it cuts out most of the area’s frustrating sections.

The Hidden Cave

Did you know there’s a hidden cave in the Forbidden Woods? If you carefully explore the poison swamp, you’ll find an area that contains unique items like the Madman’s Knowledge and some important upgrade materials. It’s risky because of the poison, but it’s absolutely worth the trip.

Byrgenwerth: A Secret Path to Insight

Okay, Byrgenwerth is small, but it holds one of the game’s biggest mysteries. After defeating Rom, the Vacuous Spider, you unlock a hidden boss fight in the Nightmare Frontier.

To access this area, you’ll need to have collected the tonsil stone in Forbidden Woods. Once you have it, head toward the Grand Cathedral, and a giant Amygdala will grab you and transport you to the hidden zone. It’s freaky but super rewarding.

Nightmare of Mensis: A Shortcut to Sanity

The Nightmare of Mensis is one of the most challenging sections of Bloodborne, thanks to a mechanic called Frenzy. But don’t worry—there’s a shortcut!

The Elevator Loop

After carefully navigating past the Brain of Mensis and the Frenzy-inducing enemies (seriously, bring Sedatives), you’ll find an elevator shortcut that connects the main lantern to the boss arena. Unlock this ASAP to save yourself hours of backtracking.

Cainhurst Castle: A Hidden Gem

Getting to Cainhurst Castle feels like uncovering a dark fairy tale. First, you’ll need to grab the Cainhurst Summons from Iosefka’s Clinic. Then, head to Hemwick Charnel Lane and interact with the mysterious carriage.

Once you arrive, don’t miss the shortcut on the upper floors! Cainhurst is a brutal area, and this shortcut makes exploring its frostbitten halls so much easier.

Pro Tips for Finding Secrets

1. Break Everything: Barrels, boxes, and furniture often hide important items or paths. If it looks smashable, smash it.

2. Interact with NPCs: Some secrets are locked behind NPCs and their quests. Keep an ear out for dialogue that hints at hidden paths.

3. Check Every Corner: Bloodborne rewards the curious. If a path looks suspicious, chances are it’s hiding something.

4. Watch the Environment: Torches, crows, and even enemy placements can subtly guide you toward important locations.

5. Experiment with Items: Some items, like the Shining Coins, can help mark paths or reveal hidden tricks.

Wrapping It Up

Bloodborne is an unforgiving yet deeply rewarding experience. By mastering its shortcuts and uncovering its secrets, you’ll transform what feels like an overwhelming nightmare into a thrilling adventure. The beauty of the game is how much it rewards exploration and persistence.

So, don’t give up, Hunter. Embrace the challenge, take your time, and remember that every locked door has a key. And once you find that perfect shortcut? Bask in the glory—it’s one of the best feelings in gaming.

Now get out there and show Yharnam who’s boss.