Part of Totally Attractions, Totally Roarsome NorthWest is a fun pop up event for all the family currently open at Mottram Hall, Cheshire. Dates are still available midweek until the end of June 2021 at https://www.totallytickets.co.uk/roarsome-nw
The Site
The trail itself takes you through the natural woodland, just south of the Mottram Hall Hotel and is just over 1km. We were lucky with the weather so the paths were clear and dry, but it was obvious where patches of thick mud had been so wellies would be essential if there’s been recent rain! Thick mud, along with uneven paths and tree roots, would make it quite tricky for pushchairs, so a carrier is recommended for non-walkers. The staff were very friendly and great with the kids, but no dogs are allowed in.
The Trail
The trail takes around an hour and entry is staggered to aid with social distancing. A clear information guide is on video loop at the start which explains the one way system and each zone has an emergency contact phone as well as CCTV to ensure everyone is safe. There is the option to complete a free quiz as you go round, with 3 difficulty levels to suit everyone. The hardest one requires reading all the information plaques sited with each model, but the kids gave up on that one pretty quickly! There was also a bit of pressure from groups behind to keep moving to everyone could remain safely distanced, so we didn’t want to spend too long at each stop.
Zones
There really is something for everyone! The trail is separated into different themed zones so as you walk through you’ll see everything from dinosaurs and wild animals, to pirates and superheroes. You even get a trip to Alice’s Wonderland and can spot a life size unicorn! All the models are static, so there’s no scary surprises for the younger visitors, but if you listen carefully you might be lucky enough to hear a dinosaur roaring in the bushes.
At the end of the trail there is a small gift hut where you can purchase Totally Roarsome souvenirs. The staff will also take your photo with a final dinosaur model and give you a free 6×4 print, which is a lovely touch.
Facilities
There was a dedicated car park on site, but if you’re after a picnic as part of your day out, these sadly aren’t allowed in and around the trail at present. There was a sign saying you could bring in beverages purchased at Mottram Hall but we were unable to find a café or anything there. There are some mobile toilets at the entrance, however that’s it for the rest of the trail, so go before you enter!
Overall
This was a fantastic day out for kids and adults alike. The walk was short enough for the kids to manage easily and so jam packed it kept their attention throughout.
There were signs at the end for future events for Halloween and Christmas, and I’d definitely consider going again with another theme. Totally Storytime is also currently running in Ashton-under-Lyne where children’s stories come to life in an indoor trail.
