It may be scenic, pretty and covered in abundant green forestry, but there is far more to Gloucestershire than natural beauty. Yes, there are also many high-octane activities you and your family or friends can get involved in when you head down this way.
From zip wires to rock climbing, karting, caving and laser-ops, there’s pretty much something to interest everyone who likes to hear their heart beating madly against their chest. Here are a few of our favourite adrenalin-boosting go-to’s:
Forest of Dean Adventure Challenge – Bracelands
High rope courses are always sure to get the old heart pumping – and this one at Bracelands in the Forest of Dean is no exception. Whether you swing, climb, or jump your way around (or do all of this), you’re going to have plenty of fun and a few scary moments. Don’t worry, though – you’ll find qualified instructors on-site to advise (or stop) you. Kids have to be at least eight years old to embark on this, and adults are very welcome.
Caving at Clearwell Caves
You don’t have to go up to have fun, you know. Burying down below ground can be great fun, too – as you’ll find out if you sign up for a little caving adventure at Clearwell Caves. And, once you get your helmet and lamp on, you’ll start feeling the part right away. Yes, you’ll get a bit dirty, but, take it from us, it’s well worth it. Tours, with experienced guides, are usually around two hours.
For those who fancy something a little more daring, there’s the chance to go underground even further, down to 200ft that is. The deeper trails take around three hours, and you’ll get boiler suits and wellies as well as a helmet and lamp.
Wye Valley Warfare Laser-Ops
Really, who doesn’t love a good game of Laser-Ops? If you’ve never played it before, the Wye Valley Warfare course is a fantastic introduction to the game. Teams of up to 10 or 20 individuals can take part at the one time, playing SAS in the purpose-built outdoors Close Quarter Battleground. There’s even a specially-designed quest to take part in, involving armed militia, terrorists and bandits. It’s your role to eliminate the enemy. Good luck!
Segways at JDR Karting
So, who hasn’t been on a Segway yet? These electric personal transportation vehicles by Ninebot are great fun to ride indoors. They’re easy to master, and the fun comes when you are presented with a series of obstacles to master. Yep, that’s when the going gets tough – ramps and cones, amongst other obstacles, will undoubtedly test your skills. The minimum age level to ride is ten years; there’s no maximum, so older daredevils are welcome too. Groups of up to five people at a time can partake.
And about that zip slide we mentioned:
@soglos: “Just over the border, Chepstow is home to the Wire Zip Slide, one of the UK’s longest zip wires at 700 metres. Launching off the cliff, the slide will zoom its passenger over the 70m-high quarry. A thrilling activity worth getting in the car for, adrenaline junkies should put this one on their bucket lists.”
