Ziplining (also known as zip wire or Tyrolean high line) is you zipping along a cable that has been attached between two points above the ground. Sometimes you're in a standing position, on other zip wires you're sort of lying tummy down in a harness or cradle. However you're attached to the line, the end result is the same - you'll be sliding down it very fast!

High ropes are modules that have been built at various heights above the ground either attached to trees or on purpose-built poles. It's a bit like an aerial obstacle course and you'll work your way around the course stepping along plank bridges, riding zip lines, climbing and jumping as you go.

Some high ropes experiences are called treetop adventures because the walkways and platforms are actually built in and around the trees! The high ropes set ups at each location vary, so make sure you read the full details so you know what sort high ropes course you'll be tackling.

High ropes adventures are a series of challenges and obstacles that often include short zip wires. Our individual zip wire/lining experiences are generally for longer, more extreme zip wires that can be as high as 10m or more off the ground and nearly 200m long for full adrenaline thrills!

All zip liners and high rope participants will have a full safety briefing before starting off. All the safety gear is provided and explained to you. All the lines, cables, harnesses and installations are regularly checked by certified technicians to meet all current safety standards.

You will be attached by your harness and carabiner to the safety ropes at all times. If you do slip, the safety mechanism will ensure you're locked into position and you will most likely be able to climb back up and carry on. If you're struggling to clamber back up, one of the ground crew will assist to get you going again.

High ropes and zip lines are not suitable if you are or think you might be pregnant.

All the centres we work with have a whole team of instructors who are not only very good at explaining things clearly, they also have bags of patience and are very good at encouraging you, without forcing you too far out of your comfort zone. It's also completely normal that you'll be feeling a bit nervous or scared before you start off - that's all part of the thrill!

You'll be kitted out with a harness that goes around your waist and thighs, a helmet, carabiners and lanyards (short lengths of ropes). You'll be attached to a top wire and a belay wire too. Attaching and detaching yourself from each module will be explained to you. For zip wire experiences, a technician will be with you at the start point and the finish point to assist

Yes. Most centres have more than one course. You can start with the route that's around one metre off the ground and then go higher as confidence grows.

Routes usually start around 1m off the ground. Typically, medium level courses are 5-6m high and the most difficult routes can be 7-10m above you!

Yes. Courses have been designed so if you really don't want to give certain modules a try you can come down and go straight to the next one.

In the unlikely event that you panic or find yourself stuck, instructors who patrol the courses from the ground will come to your aid.

Getting to the top of the zip wire ready to slide down it is all part of the fun. You'll need a head for heights as it usually involves climbing up ladders or steps onto a small platform where you'll be attached to the zip line.

Each venue specifies its own weight limits, so please check the full details on each individual page. In general the upper weight limit is between 18 and 21 stone.

High ropes courses usually start from around the age of 6 years. Children under 16 will need to be accompanied on site at all times. In some cases (usually for the youngest children taking part) you will need a participating adult to do the course at the same time. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us by 'phone, email or the on-line chat for more info.

Decent footwear (no crocs, flip flops or boots) is essential. It's also best to cover your arms (no vest tops) and to tie back long hair.

A bit of light rain won't stop play. If there are thunderstorms the organisers may be obliged to close the course. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather as most of the zip wire and high ropes activities we offer are outdoor.

You have to be fairly fit to tackle a high ropes course. Less so for the zip wires, but you will need to be even more daring to whizz along a wire that's sitting wayy off the ground at high speed!

We have a selection of thrilling zip wire rides and high ropes courses around the UK for you. Locations include:

• Yorkshire
• Hertfordshire
• Essex
• Birmingham (indoor)
• Sheffield (indoor)
• Devon