We’ve been going to Center Parcs for holidays since Erin was about 2. As she now gets older each time we try to do different activities than we did before. On our most recent holiday to Center Parcs Elveden Forest, Erin gave aerial tree trekking a go.
Who can do aerial tree trekking?
As with a lot Center Parcs activities, aerial tree trekking is based on age, height and weight. This particular activity can be enjoyed by people who meet the following requirements:
- Minimum height 1.10m
- Maximum weight 18 stone/114kg, all participants will be weighed before the session starts
- Children up to 8 years must be accompanied by a paying adult
There are other options for younger children as well as other courses for older children and adults.
How much does it cost?
At the time of booking for a break in July 2022, aerial tree trekking was £34 per person. The price was no different whether you book for an adult or a child.
What does it involve?
The aerial tree trekking course lasts for 30 minutes and you need to book online before your break or while you are at Center Parcs. During your time slot, you will climb around the trees while being safely connected by a harness. Some parts are trickier than others, with climbing, crawling and zip lines being involved.
Did Erin enjoy it?
Yes and no. Erin was really excited beforehand, having been looking forward to this for such a long time, especially as she was doing the course with her Uncle Chris. Getting to the activity was absolutely fine, as was getting her harness and helmet on. However, once she started to climb around and realised that it was fairly high up and hard, she was quite worried and scared.
You are connected to a harness the whole time so there’s never any possibility to fall. There are lots of different kinds of challenges on the aerial tree trek including walking along a climbing wall, zip lines and wobbly bridges. I think Erin was a bit scared of not knowing what to do about some things and not being sure of herself.
For some reason, Erin’s biggest issue seemed to be the zip lines which we found strange because she usually loves them. Erin was so scared that she had to get staff to help her, which they did immediately. The staff were great in this aspect and really encouraged Erin to try but also realised when she needed a hand.
Although Erin struggled with some of the course, she came off it really proud of herself and said it was amazing. She did explain that she was scared but now that she knew what it was all about, she would do it again. I was, of course, so proud of her for getting around the course even when she was scared and maybe didn’t want to continue.
I do think this particular experience is quite expensive considering it’s only meant to last 30 minutes. However, Erin was really happy with it afterwards and to see her challenge herself and push herself made it worth paying for.
Looking for more to do at Center Parcs?
- All you need to know about Pottery Painting
- Aerial Tree Trekking
