Swinging from the treetops might not be every girl's idea of fun but if you are out-doorsy, up for a laugh and not afraid of heights, then 'Go-Ape' could be the thing!

Me along with five others including an excited hen (who had no idea where she was going) set off from our campsite in the New Forest and made the short journey to Go-Ape at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood (see www.goape.co.uk for a complete list of locations). Our time slot had been pre-booked and after a quick snack and a drink (advised as you are up with the trees for a while!) we registered, signed all the paperwork and had our thorough safety briefing.  Let the hilarity commence!  We were lucky with the weather.  It was lovely and sunny with a breeze and the atmosphere up in the trees is refreshing.  There are wardens roaming around just in case you get nervous and want to call time on your experience but all of my group loved it (even Sarah who was determined to get over her fear of heights).

In a nutshell the course is set out in about six zones and the same security code lets you in each one.  Before you start the climb at the beginning of each zone, you attach yourself to the wires with a carabina and you remain attached for the duration, ensuring that you always follow the strict safety procedure that you learned before you started.  It doesn't take long for it to become second nature though I found it a good idea to repeat the steps out loud!

The course involves lots of zip wires and all sorts of wobbly ladders, bridges and nets but in my opinion, none of it is too strenuous and there are sometimes easier routes signposted.  Everybody chips in and gives reminders on the rules if necessary, like 'no more than two people on a platform!'

Tips:

1.  Have something to eat and drink before you start (and visit the loo as it is a trek back to base once you are up there.)

2.  Cameras are not allowed unless you can fix the case to yourself and access it easily.  I took mine and it was great playing back all the videos later that night.

3.  Don't feel like you have to rush.  Take your time to take it all in. Let people pass you if you feel the pressure.

4.  Don't be precious about your clothes.  If you don't get your zip wire technique just right, you end up with bark chipping stains all over you.

Have fun!  This was my second Go-Ape experience and I'd be up for a third.