A white-knuckle ride, billed as Europe's first roller coaster zipwire, has now launched in the North East where visitors are invited to hit the heights this summer.
Following months of planning, the custom-built Kielder ZipCoaster is offering adrenaline junkies a thrilling ride where they will feel both the free-flying sensation of a zipwire and the ups and downs, and twists and turns, of a rollercoaster.
The latest attraction at the Calvert Kielder activity centre in Northumberland makes use of new patented technology called AvatarOne which creates the dual sensation by mimicking the moves of both the popular rides.
Peter Cockerill, chief executive officer at the centre, said he is delighted to launch the ZipCoaster which the team had first seen in action in the US.
“We are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve the Calvert experience here in Kielder," he said. "We heard about the ZipCoaster in Florida and knew that we had to bring it to the UK.
"It has taken months and months of hard work and determination from the team so we’re all now absolutely ecstatic to be able to finally confirm what we’ve been working so hard on."
The ride, which is the only AvatarOne outdoor attraction of its kind in the UK, makes use of an adapted roller coaster rail and thrill-seekers are then harnessed into a seated position for a journey which dips and twists through the trees as it reaches speeds of up to 20mph.
A team from the Netherlands-based SkyWalker Adventure Builders worked with Calvert Kielder on the bespoke ride, which includes a 270-degree bend and zero gravity drop, to make the most of the surroundings and views on offer.
"Visitors can expect a really exhilarating new experience," said Peter.
He thanked funders who have helped make the new addition possible and also visitors whose numbers support continuing developments at the centre, where attractions already include a traditional zipwire; high ropes; climbing walls; canoeing and kayaking as well as accommodation and the SkyDen tree-house which was created with TV’s George Clarke.
To find out more or to book a slot on the ZipCoaster, which is suitable for all abilities including wheelchair users who can access it by a lift, see here .
