What time do I need to arrive?
Make your way to the Go Ape cabin and be ready to get going on your Go Ape adventure at your booked time. Late arrivals that miss their session will be charged at full price. Allow plenty of timeas it may take considerably longer than you think to drive into the forest, park and get to the Go Ape cabin, particularly on busy days when traffic queuing is more likely. At most sites you’ll have to pay for parking. This is because car parks are managed by forest owners, not us. Parking charges vary from course to course and can change at any time, so bring plenty of loose change.
What should I wear?
We suggest that you wear something you don’t mind getting grubby. Dress for the weather so bring along a mac if it’s raining! Please wear appropriate footwear with soles with good grips. No sandals or slip-off shoes. Some people recommend thin gloves. Long hair must be tied back.
Can I bring my camera/camcorder?
Yes you can! Getting a camera into the trees is straightforward. Talk to the guys at the Go Ape cabin and they’ll kit you out with a lanyard so that you and your camera are always attached – safer for everyone (Please note that lanyards are available to purchase for £2 at the Go Ape cabin).
Are there storage or changing facilities?
We don’t provide anywhere to store your belongings. There are toilets on site where you can change before and after your Go Ape experience.
What happens in bad weather?
Go Ape is an excellent wet weather activity! The course remains open in all weathers, except when it is icy, stormy or during lightning. Rain makes the course muddier than usual – which all adds to the fun! Don’t forget to dress for the weather.
Up in the Trees
How long does the course take?
The Go Ape adventure takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and that includes your safety briefing.
Is there a time limit to complete the course?
Nope, you can go at your own pace and let people ‘overtake’ if you fancy taking a little more time over an obstacle or section. If you want to reduce the chance of being held up by people in front of you, we recommend that you book an early morning slot, as there will be fewer people ahead of you.
Swinging Safety
Is it safe?
Go Ape! courses are substantial and physically testing tree-top obstacle courses. There is inevitably a risk of injury when undertaking such activities. Participants will be responsible for attaching themselves to the safety system. If you do not attach yourself to the safety system you risk falling, which could result in a serious or fatal injury. However, the courses and operating procedures are inspected annually by Jacobs (specialist engineering inspectors) and Harraway Tree Services. All participants receive a safety briefing from a trained instructor at the start and have to wear a safety harness at all times.
Is there an instructor with you on the course?
You will receive a 30 minute safety briefing and training from an instructor before you start the course. After that you’re on your own, free to swing through the trees. Of course, instructors are always on hand, regularly patrolling the forests (not in monkey suits unfortunately!)
I’m afraid of heights!
If you’re worried about your knees knocking and your arms trembling – never fear; Go Ape is here and we are proud to have helped lots of people to conquer their fear of heights. Why not give it a try – you might surprise yourself!
Do I need to be fit or strong?
Doing Go Ape does require a degree of physical fitness but if you can climb up a rope ladder you should be fine. You can always catch your breath between obstacles.
What happens if I get stuck?
Our instructors will come to your rescue! They have specialist equipment to lower you safely back to the ground.
What if I fall?
Your safety harness will catch you. Then you can regain your footing and continue having fun!
Is Go Ape insured?
Yes; Go Ape holds £10m of public liability Insurance covering all of its courses.
What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
The staff at Go Ape are not medically qualified and so are not in a position to assess the capacity of participants to undertake a course. It remains your responsibility to undertake such an assessment prior to use of the course. We advise you to visit the course prior to booking to undertake your own risk assessment. You may also wish to contact your doctor for further advice.
