STAFF REVIEW: BRIGHTON ZIP WIRE EXPERIENCE

Aug 11, 2021
Adventure , Staff Reviews

Connor Howling

Being the fastest and longest zip wire along the South Coast, Brighton Zip is an adrenaline seeker’s dream.

Any attraction that makes my heart beat rise above my usual resting rate is avoided at all costs, but I am proud to say that I plucked up the courage to conquer this one. Approaching the famous Brighton Beach, I immediately spotted the spiral staircase which I automatically registered was the gateway to trembling legs and a sweaty forehead (the sun didn’t help!)

Arriving at the entrance of the zip wire, there was a slight queue, which I personally think was a deliberate attempt at building up the anticipation as they must’ve sensed my nervousness. Reaching the ticket booth was a pleasant process as my colleagues and I were instantly greeted by the most welcoming staff. They quickly dealt with handling our pre-booked online tickets, which were provided at a fair price. Discounts are offered through their website to local residents, as well as students.

Next, I was required to sign a waiver form before being directed to the lockers which were priced at an unthinkable charge… ABSOLUTELY FREE! I thought this was a meticulous touch that evoked a sense of honesty from the company, as the only costs involved were for the attraction itself with everything else being included.

After leaving civilization behind, sadly having to part with my trusty phone that was secured away, reality hit and myself alongside a group of ten individuals were being kitted up to be prepared for the thrill of a lifetime!

On a serious note, safety is one of my biggest concerns when it comes to these experiences, and all the staff at this attraction paid great attention to detail in regards to this; clear explanations and thorough checks were communicated to each of us with advice on how to stay safe at all times - which definitely put me at ease!

I felt as though the ascension when climbing the staggering 30 metre staircase was scarier than the actual descent - dizziness from the looping steps, vulnerability to being exposed to the wind… it still gives me shudders to this day! Aside from the minor fears kicking in, standing on the top of the platform made it all worthwhile and could be deemed an attraction on its own, as the view was astonishing.

Then came the moment when I was imminently preparing myself to sprint back down the stairs, as they called me to be secured onto the zip wire. It all became too real when I was asked to step on the edge of the platform, before the countdown began to soar over the beach and down to solid ground again!

I found that having the option to zip wire with one more person made the experience much more enjoyable, as my colleague was there for complete moral support (it was a necessity.) The initial drop made me realise how much I had scared myself prior, as I found the attraction to be the closest I’ve ever been to flying; it was relaxing and a breeze, both literally and figuratively!

Gliding over the hectic city for around 30 seconds felt much longer, as it was enough time to take in as much of the picturesque scenery as possible and I even managed to hold on with one hand for a short duration!

Once set free from the zip wire at the landing point, we walked along the Brighton promenade back to the entrance of the attraction to be de-kitted. After managing to stop my legs from quaking, the short walk was an extremely gratifying opportunity to reflect on what we had accomplished!

Collecting our belongings and exiting the attraction led us to The Zip Deck, which supplied food and drink at an extra cost. Needless to say, it almost felt like being transported to a destination in the Mediterranean with the recurrent themes of sunshine and surfers being observable within The Zip Deck. The venue also boasted a sundeck, providing a place to relax and let that pounding heart have a break!

The Brighton Zip is an experience that I would encourage anybody to try out when in the area as it’s affordable, unforgettable and doesn’t even take up too much time out of your day!