Q. I have downloaded my Trail but I cannot open it. Why?
A. There could be two reasons why the file will not open. The first reason could be that you have not got an up-to-date version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. Version 9 is the most up-to-date. This is free software available to be downloaded from this link: http://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/
The second reason could be that you have WINZIP on your computer and this program is by default trying to open any downloaded files. The Trails are in PDF format and do not require unzipping. Open Adobe Acrobat reader first then open the Trail document from the place where you saved it using Reader. (File - Open)
Q. How much does a Trail cost?
A. Each Trail costs £5 as a pdf download and £6 when posted out as a professionally printed booklet.
Q. How do I buy a Trail?
A. There are two ways to buy a Trail. You can purchase a Trail online with a debit or credit card, using our secure payment system. You can choose to download the Trail as a pdf to print at home or to have a professionally printed Trail posted to you. If you choose to download your Trail you will receive an electronic receipt containing a link to a Trail which you can then download and print. Alternatively, you can order a Trail by telephoning us on the number for the region your chosen Trail is in. We will take your card details over the telephone and send your Trail to you by first class post.
Q. What does a Trail consist of?
A. A Trail is a series of clues that you have to solve whilst you explore your chosen location. The clues are all set on permanent features such as gravestones, signposts, information boards, memorials, drain covers, post boxes etc. The answer to each clue will be a name, word, date, number etc.
The Trails are themed and are either Murder Mystery, Treasure Hunt or Spy Mission based, so the answer to each clue eliminates a suspect/weapon or a location, or gives a code letter which you cross off from your list when you find it. When you have completed the Trail you should be left with only one name and weapon, (the whodunnit and with what), the location of the hidden treasure or the code to de-activate the device. And by this time you have had a good walk (or cycle), lots of fun, and learnt about the local history.
Q. I have downloaded and printed my Trail at home. How do I put it together?
A.
Q. How many people can do the Trail?
A. In theory as many as you like! However, generally groups of up to about six are ideal. If you want to do the Trail with more people, get in touch for details of our bulk order discounts and Trail Organisers' Packs which we can provide.
Q. How long does a Trail take?
A. The Trails vary in length. The shortest ones will only take an hour or so, whereas the longest (car-based) Trails will probably take four or five hours. The estimated duration is specified on the Trails homepage for each location.
Please remember that the estimated duration is meant as a guideline only. You can, however, take as long as you like. Also, as there is no time limit, you may do the Trail on two (or more) separate occasions if you wish.
Q. Is the Trail suitable for children?
A. The Trail is a wonderful family activity. On the whole we suggest that children of reading age will really be able to participate, although smaller children could still enjoy the fresh air and exercise.
Q. Are the Trails suitable for pushchair and wheelchair users?
A. We have tried to make the Trails as accessible as possible. Unfortunately, we have not always been able to make every Trail pushchair and/or wheelchair friendly. Please refer to the specific Trail for more information.
Q. When I have solved the mystery how do I submit my answer?
A. On the homepage there is a 'Submit Your Answer' Tab on the Map where you can fill in a form with your answer. Alternatively you can telephone us or write to us with your answer. Please ensure you include your unique reference number. If your answer is correct you will automatically be entered into the prize draw.
Q. How much can I win?
A. The individual prize pots for the Trails vary, as they are dependent on the number of Trails sold. Ten pence from the sale of each Trail goes into the prize fund. Click here for more information about the prize pot.
Q. When and how will I find out if I have won?
A. The prize draw for 2010 will be made in early January 2011. If you have won we will contact you directly. The full list of prize-winners will be published on our website.
Q. Can I print off more than one copy of the Trail?
A. Yes, you are permitted to print more than one copy but only if it is just for your own personal use. Please remember you are only permitted to enter the competition once per Trail purchased.
What you cannot do is photocopy the Trail and use it for groups of people. This would infringe copyright law and impact on us as a business. If you wish to purchase larger numbers of Trails for groups, please give us a call and we can give your a bulk purchase discount.
Q. What do I do if I cannot find a clue?
A. If you cannot find a clue, retrace your steps to the last answer you found and try again. If you are still stuck you can use our free Trail Trouble Textline to find out the answer and continue solving the mystery.
Q. What do I do if I change my mind?
A. Unfortunately, once you have been sent the electronic link we are unable to refund your payment.
Q. What do I do if I accidentally order the same Trail twice in quick succession?
A. If your second order has clearly been made in error shortly after the first, please contact us and we will arrange a refund of your second payment.
Treasure Trails has been commissioned by the BBC to write four brand new exciting Trails as part of the 'Hands on History' series Read more...
