So, I actually didn’t get past the first ladder...
Staff we very pleasant and extremely helpful at Go Ape (regrettably we were 5mins late) but staff moved us on to the 11:15 course to ensure that we got a go! After signing in, we took part in a safety demo’ given by Alice. Alice was very helpful and clear in her explanations. She had overheard that I had a fear of heights and took the time to learn my name, and to reassure me prior to entering the course. I participated in the training, and Alice had noticed I was still very nervous. After acknowledging this, Alice decided to grab a different harness, one that too would support my upper body in order to make me feel more comfortable. She also ensured that I was at the back of the group so that I did not feel pressured by other customers behind me.
We began the course and I became a bit teary at the top of the first ladder and regrettably could not continue with the trail. However, whilst I was still up the ladder and in tears, staff (Alice and a gentleman who’s name I did not catch) were so reassuring, suggesting I take a breath, attempt to position my body in different ways to try and make me more comfortable throughout. I asked if I could come back down the way I came, as I couldn’t move from the platform. Staff continued to be supportive, encouraging me to come down, one foot after the other and to take my time.
Once I hit the ground, the gentleman helped my out of my harness and explained that I would receive a full refund (which I did not expect at all, I’d already decided to admit defeat and accept my loses). I was allowed to continue around the trail, following my friends with a camera with both Alice and the gentleman ensuring I knew where I was going and that I was okay.
Upon my friends completing and receiving a certificate, I too got one for ‘being awesome’ and trying my best. Staff did not allow me to feel embarrassed about my teary descent and were reassuring and attentive throughout.
Although you will not find me up amongst the trees, I would fully recommend Go Ape Cannock (but with my feet firmly on...
Read moreWe booked for the the Treetop Adventure that takes roughly 3 hours to complete. My son is 14 and has completed this course before. I am 46, scared of heights, and have never done anything like this before. We were greeted by Jakob at the fron desk who was very helpful, well mannered, polite, and friendly. We felt welcomed from the second we started. Our instructor ( I think his name was Paul) was very thourough and very safety conscious. We were briefed on how to manoeuvre through the trees safely and instructed on how to use all of the equipment. I asked questions and the questions were welcomed. The instructors are always on the ground spurring you on and giving you the confidence you need. The Adventure was fantastic! Lots of different challenges throughout the maze in the trees. I was saved by Hannah at the end as I was unable to climb to rope netting, and no point did I feel scared. I blew my whistle provided by Go Ape and Hannah came in seconds and helped me on that part of the course. I cannot recommend Go Ape at Cannock Chase any higher. 100% 5 Stars 10/10 Beautiful surroundings, fantastic staff, highly trained staff to make you feel confident and safe. A wonderful day out for your family, friends, partner, or even a solo adventure. I am booking to go again and we only went yesterday! Be prepared to get a little dirty, it's all part of the fun! An exhilarating day, full of laughter, smiles, and challenges. I am afraid of heights and really wanted to push myself and I'm so glad I did! There are other Adventures that aren't as high, but I'm really pleased I chose to challenge myself. It was a wonderful bonding experience with my teenage son. We will be going back very soon! Thank you to all the staff at Cannock Chase Go Ape. Even the cafe is wonderful with a wide variety of food to fill your appetite after your adventure! The walks that you can go on after in Cannock Chase are stunning! All around an amazing day in beautiful surroundings! I can't fault any...
Read moreVery disappointing and unsettling experience at Go Ape Cannock Chase
Our recent visit to Go Ape Cannock Chase was unfortunately marred by a deeply concerning incident involving a member of staff named Izzy. During our time at the park, we witnessed Izzy shout at a minor who was clearly distressed and had requested help on three separate occasions after becoming stuck on the zip line. Rather than offering the support and reassurance expected from someone in her position, Izzy displayed highly unprofessional and even threatening behaviour toward the child. This kind of conduct is absolutely unacceptable, especially in an environment that caters to families and young participants. When we raised our concerns with the team leader, we were alarmed to be told that Izzy has known issues with anger. I found this incredibly troubling, if such behavioural issues are known, then she should not in my opinion be working directly with children.
Soon after, the duty manager approached us to gather our account of the situation. While we appreciated him listening and offering vouchers to use at any of the 37 Go Ape locations as a gesture of goodwill, the incident had already left a very negative impression. Although the child involved was not one of our own, witnessing the event was extremely uncomfortable and upsetting. For these reasons, we will not be returning to the Cannock Chase location and cannot, in good conscience, recommend it to other families. We hope Go Ape takes this feedback seriously and reviews its policies around staff suitability and conduct, especially when it comes to child safety and support.
On a more positive note, we would like to highlight Bromley, another member of staff, who was extremely helpful and polite throughout the day. It’s a shame that the overall experience was tainted by the behaviour of one individual, as Bromley's professionalism was a...
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