Abseiling is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with more and more accredited instructors becoming available each year. It seems throwing yourself from a high place with just a rope and harness for protection is the height of fashion: pun intended! Really though, it’s a fun activity and it will keep you fit. So, if you want to try it out, or you already abseil and want to see what it’s like doing it somewhere different, then this guide will tell you where to go for some really good abseiling action.
ENGLAND – THE PEAK DISTRICT
You can abseil down a building, which tends to be an activity carried out by individuals who want to make money for charities, or you can abseil from natural points, either to lower ground from a cliff, for example, or into a cavern underground. In England, an excellent place for abseiling is the Peak District, given that it gets its name from having so many peaks. With the right supervision and equipment, even a complete beginner can enjoy abseiling and, as it’s a suitable activity for wet weather, the English climate is no barrier to having fun. You can find out more from the website of one of the Peak District’s foremost activities companies.
WALES – SNOWDONIA
If you want to abseil in Wales, you know it makes sense to head for the range containing the highest mountain in Wales, Snowdonia, home of Mount Snowdon. Llanberis has a long history of climbing and abseiling, so you can drop from as high as 100 feet, whilst enjoying the breathtaking views. Children can have a go, under parental supervision, but no matter how experienced, or otherwise you are, Llanberis has locations of a range of difficulties, so it’s just as good for James Bond as it is for Mr Bean. If you’re new to the sport, there is plenty of advice about what to bring.
NORTHERN IRELAND – CASTLEWELLAN
Abseiling is a very activity popular in Northern Ireland, at least in part, due to the beautiful mountain scenery in the country. One of those mountainous areas is in County Down where, at Castlewellan, you can abseil from inland peaks or sea-cliffs, under the guidance of very professional and friendly trained instructors. For those who are looking for an adrenaline rush, there are jumps assessed to be at an eight out of ten level for the thrill-factor. Details of this and other locations in Northern Ireland are available online.
SCOTLAND – FORTH RAILWAY BRIDGE
As mentioned earlier, it is possible to abseil from man-made structures, such as tall buildings, as well as geological features and, in Scotland, where better to jump from than the 95 feet tall Forth Bridge in Edinburgh. Open to those over the age of eight, Scottish abseiling is a very well-run affair with highly professional trainers who will ensure everybody takes their safety precautions seriously so they can enjoy the experience without unnecessary worry. Charity abseils from the Forth Bridge take place regularly, with the proceeds going to the Chest, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Scotland.
One thing that all professional abseiling companies, and serious abseiling enthusiasts, have in common is training, experience and excellent equipment. For certain tasks, such as window-cleaning in a high-rise facility or for building-surveying, a professional rope access company, like Sussex Rope Access can supply operatives or teams to take on the jobs that can’t be done properly via a ladder or cherry-picker. Visit their website for more information and contact details.