Push your limits at Go Ape!

If you are looking for the perfect balance of beautiful Nottinghamshire outdoors and something exciting that’s a little out of the ordinary this Easter break- then Go Ape, at Sherwood Pines is the place!

Visit Nottinghamshire went along to unleash our inner Robin Hood, adventuring through the forest like the legendary outlaw himself on Go Ape’s testing ‘Treetop Challenge’; although, no doubt Robin did it a little more gracefully (we doubt he ever lost his shoe in the process!). Luckily the helping hand of the committed Go Ape team and the exhilarating heights and sights of the forest were more than enough to balance out any personal clumsiness and made for an unforgettable experience.

The clue is in the name that Treetop Challenge is one of the more demanding courses available, only beaten by the newest addition of the dialled-up Tree Top Challenge Plus. If the thought of navigating twisty turns, leaping from log to log and clambering cargo nets at 30 feet high seems an adventure too big for now- Go Ape have several options available for all confidence and age levels including: the entry level Tree Top Adventure or the slightly advanced Adventure Plus. For those who like to keep grounded but still have a need for speed there is a segway course open from April 1^st.

While taking to the trees via wobbly rope ladders may seem daunting at first, you’ll be given a thorough safety briefing by one of the friendly faces at Go Ape. Not only are they clearly experts of the courses (proven with swift shoe retrieval) but also a great encouragement on your journey, shouting up words of reassurance or playful hints that you can be braver. After a safety brief and short trial run, you’re good to face the real deal. The atmosphere is friendly and safe, there’s no doubt you’re in capable hands and soon enough you’ll realise how capable you are too!

A particular highlight is the Tarzan Swing. Even once you feel you’ve conquered the increasing heights of earlier obstacles, the swing hits you with a sudden awareness of just how high you are, making even the most confident of the tribe pause for breath. As you take the thrilling leap of faith (all while safely tucked into your safety harness of course) apprehension quickly transforms into a rush of adrenaline- you’ll wish you could turn back and do it again.

There is something entirely unique about the peace that comes with being up amongst the trees and the exhilaration of climbing, swinging and zipping between them. It goes to show that a day in the outdoors has so much to offer. We climbed the first ladder a little nervous of what was instore above us and zipped down to a triumphant finish with big smiles and keen to come again.

Go Ape is open 7 days a week on all activities over Easter, they recommend checking their website for times and availability and strongly advise booking ahead to avoid disappointment. Click here to discover more. 

Adventurer and blog writer - Adam Pink