Treetop Challenge

Treetop Challenge Frequently Asked Questions

What is Go Ape Treetop Challenge?

Treetop Challenge at Go Ape Matfen, Newcastle is an exhilarating outdoor high ropes activity that involves navigating a series of high ropes obstacles set among the treetops, providing a thrilling and immersive experience for participants.

What does the Treetop Challenge course include?

The high ropes course includes suspended bridges, 5 zip lines (including a skateboard zip), a Tarzan Swing, and other challenging obstacles designed to test participants' balance, agility, and courage. It offers a unique and engaging way to experience the outdoors.

Is there an age limit for participants?

Participants need to be 10 years old and 1.4m tall to take part. There's no upper age limit either. While our adventures are challenging (both mentally and physically), you will be able to conquer them as long as you're reasonably fit and healthy.

Do I need to supervise while on the course?

Under 16s need to supervised while on the course by a participating adult. One adult can supervise up to two children.

Do I need to be physically fit to participate?

Go Ape designs our adventures to be as accessible as possible. Our high ropes courses require a degree of physical fitness but if you can climb up a rope ladder you will be fine.

What should I wear and bring for the adventure?

We recommend you wear gloves for comfort. Bring your own or pre-order our recommended gloves and collect from our cabin.

We suggest that you wear something you don’t mind getting grubby. Dress for the weather so bring along a mac if the forecast is for rain.

You need to make sure you have the correct footwear which can’t fall off easily. This should offer protection to your toes and heels. Please do not wear sandals, flip flops, Crocs, slip-off or high heel shoes.

Your stomach area will need to be covered to prevent the harness rubbing, and long hair must be tied back to prevent entanglements in the equipment.

Can I bring my camera or smartphone on the course?

Please do! You’re going to want to capture these moments to share! In order to keep your gadgets and others safe we do ask that all phones and cameras are attached to the participant.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak times. We offer flexible booking terms:

• Up to 7 days before your activity, you can cancel an existing booking and receive a full refund, minus the booking fee*. You can also move your booking free of charge.
• Up to 48 hours before your activity, you can move the activity date, subject to availability. This will incur a £5 administration charge. Any requests to move or cancel must be made by telephoning the booking line: 01603 895500. A refund is not possible within the 7-day period before your activity date.
• Within 48 hours of your activity date, if Go Ape are operational, you will not be entitled to move your booking, or receive any refunds for cancellations.

*If you originally moved your booking within the 7-day period, you will not be eligible for a refund on the moved booking. If your booking is made less that 7 days before your activity date, it is non-refundable.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

Go Ape is an excellent wet weather activity. Our courses are substantially sheltered from rain and wind by the trees themselves. So as long as you’re appropriately dressed for the weather you should still have great memories of your experience. The course remains open in all weathers, except thick ice, thunderstorms and gales. Rain makes the course muddier than usual – which can add to the fun, but you might want dry clothes to change into for the journey home.

If we have to close for unsafe weather conditions, we will offer you a refund, credit note or reschedule your booking. If unsafe weather is forecasted we will aim to make the decision as early as possible, and will do our best to contact you to try and save you a wasted journey.

Is the experience suitable for team-building or group events?

Absolutely! Go Ape Treetop Challenge is a fantastic choice for birthday parties, team away days or hen and stag parties.

Can I purchase gift vouchers for Go Ape Treetop Challenge?

Yes, we offer Treetop Challenge gift vouchers that make for fantastic presents.

For the sixth consecutive year, we have been recognised as world-leaders in health and safety practice, achieving the RoSPA Gold Leisure Safety Award. This is the highest possible accolade in what is the UK’s longest-running health and safety industry awards.

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