woburn safari park tree top adventure

Go Ape Woburn

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Go Ape at Woburn Safari Park

I was recently approached by Go Ape to see if I fancied giving their Treetop Adventure a try. To be honest my first reaction was ‘yes, that sounds fun!’ followed swiftly by ‘um, actually I’m not sure’. It’s one of those things that I’ve always wanted to have a go at, while being slightly dubious about my ability to deal with heights and ropes and anything involving coordination!

There are rope bridges aplenty to traverse at Go Ape

After a little deliberation, both me and Luke decided that it could be a lot of fun, so we headed off to our nearest Go Ape at Woburn Safari Park. If you’re not familiar with the concept, Go Ape consists of a high ropes course that you follow through the trees. There are many obstacles, including rope bridges, tunnels, zip wires and swings that you navigate. I’ve never done anything like it before, so I was a little apprehensive.

We got kitted out with our harnesses and made our way around the training area. This gave us a chance to get to grips with our safety clips and the different types of obstacles ahead. To be honest, I found it all a bit tricky. There seemed to be so much to remember and I was starting to feel a bit nervous about what was ahead.

We made our way to the first section, which consisted of a ladder up to a rope bridge, a Tarzan swing and a small zip wire. It was meant to be an easy introduction, but I found it quite difficult. My legs felt a bit wobbly and I was seriously doubting the wisdom of doing this just a week after walking 50 miles .

One of the best things about Go Ape at Woburn is the views

However, as we worked our way around I found myself growing in confidence. As we traversed the different sections we soon got the hang of it. Each bit consisted of a ladder up into the trees, a couple of obstacles to cross and a zip wire to get back down to the ground. We soon got into the swing of it, and started to enjoy ourselves.

I’m not the best with heights, but I like to think that I acquitted myself well!

It was a hot day and it was quite a work out, luckily there was water available throughout the course.

The tunnels were deceptively difficult, especially the gap in the middle!

With some of the harder obstacles, there was an alternative route, but we only used this once. What I loved about Go Ape was the fact that we were left mostly to our own devices. We moved around as part of a larger group, but after the first section we were quite spread out. The instructors were around if you needed help, but didn’t interfere. It was difficult enough to feel like a real challenge, but we always felt safe. Here’s a little video of some of our best bits.

I was so proud to have finished the course at Woburn Safari Park

It was such a great way to spend some time outdoors doing something different. It was a good workout, and I actually enjoyed being pushed out of my comfort zone.

Have you ever tried Go Ape? Have you got a head for heights?

We were given two complimentary tickets to try out the Treetop Adventure at Go Ape Woburn Safari Park. All opinions are my own.

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We did the one at Alice Holt in Surrey (I say we it was mainly the kids). I must go up next time but we’d only got one adult ticket so my husband jumped in at the chance. I am a bit nervous of heights sometimes but my 5 year old managed it although I watched in horror a few times as his little legs stretched across the wobbly bridges. Sarah #AdventureCalling

oh my gosh hahahaha. you’re so brave!! we were recently in London at Battersea park and they have a go ape there, it looked so fun but I think once I got up there I would freeze… I’m scared of heights but love some adrenaline! maybe one day… #adventurecalling

I’ve done zip lining, but that looks way more extreme! What a fun adventure, I kind of want one in my backyard. It’s like an adult tree fun house!

I keep seeing these courses popping up everywhere, looks like fun! #bloggerclubuk

Ha Ha! Got to love a high ropes course, I did Go Ape years ago and it looks so much better now. Does anyone know of any more extreme high ropes courses in the UK or in Europe? I fancy a challenge!?

We love Go Ape…my husband and I went on our first date at our local tree park 10 years ago! We haven’t been to Woburn but it looks like a beautiful setting! #AdventureCalling

Yeah! This looks awesome!! We love this sort of thing (well… the kids and I do – the wife hates it ;o) ) and hope to get up into the trees sometime later this summer. Thanks for inspiring us on #AdventureCalling

I did Go Ape a few years ago. I can’t remember which one, but I do remember it being brilliant, and the leap of faith part at the end took all my nerves.

Can’t wait till Rowan is a bit bigger so I can take him.

#adventurecalling

What fun! We have one of these near to us. My partner is terrified of heights though so I’m still waiting for my girls to get a bit bigger so I dont have to it alone! Well done you. x #adventurecalling

It’s years since I’ve done a high ropes course and I know they have a Go Ape in Snowdonia so I must check it out. Would love to take my eldest but imagine he’s a few years short of their entry requirements yet. #adventurecalling

Having done this in my childhood with an activity camp it’s something I’d love to do with my daughters when they are older. I’m unsure whether hubby would join us he’d probably do all the filming as he fears heights. #adventurecalling

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Go Ape Tree Top Adventure at Woburn Safari Park

Go Ape Tree Top Adventure is the UK’s leading forest adventure company with 29 outdoor sites (locations nationwide). Visitors can experience a liberating sense of freedom as they weave their way through the forest on zip wires, cross wooden walkways and bridges, climb tree-top ladders and fly through the air on Tarzan Swings whilst safely attached by a harness.

Instructors are on hand to help and all participants are given a thorough safety briefing before being let loose on an adventure like no other in the forest canopy.

For more information or to book your Go Ape adventure, visit http://goape.co.uk/.

We close our forest doors during December and January (…it gets a little chilly and we like to maintain our adventures so they’re all ready to go next year).

You can check availability and book online or by phone on 0845 643 9215.

• About Go Ape Tree Top Adventure is the UK’s leading forest adventure company with 29 outdoor sites (locations nationwide). Visitors can experience a liberating sense of freedom as they weave their way through the forest on zip wires, cross wooden walkways and bridges, climb tree-top ladders and fly through the air on Tarzan Swings whilst safely attached by a harness. Instructors are on hand to help and all participants are given a thorough safety briefing before being let loose on an adventure like no other in the forest canopy. For more information or to book your Go Ape adventure, visit http://goape.co.uk/. Read more
• Location : Woburn Safari Park, , Woburn MK17 9QN
• Telephone : 0845 643 9215
• Email : [email protected]
• Ages For ages between 13 years and 22
• All Days See website for seasonal opening days and times to

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44 things to do in woburn.

Woburn is a small picturesque Georgian village with a population of about 1500. Despite its size, there are a lot of things to do in Woburn and the neighbouring Woburn Sands. We moved to the area about 2 years ago and have been slowly exploring all that the town has to offer. Super restaurants, unique animal encounters, lovely walks and cool attractions. 

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Table of Contents

Where is woburn.

The Woburn this article is about is located in Bedfordshire, England. (There is also a city with this name in Massachusetts, USA). Woburn is an ideal location to visit from the nearby Milton Keynes and Luton, but it also makes a great day trip from London. People often refer to Woburn and Woburn Sands as the same place. They are in fact very close to each other. Only 2 miles separate them. So this article will include places in both places. My map below will help you see where each attraction is located exactly. 

Things to do in Woburn with kids

1 Soar through the sky at Go Ape Woburn They have a cool Treetop Adventure with some tricky obstacles and fun zip lines. You might even spot some animals in the Safari Park, which is nearby. This adventure is not for anyone with vertigo, as the platform is 8 m up in the trees at some places. The minimum age is 10 years old.

2. Visit Aspley Guise Recreation Ground playground

The playground had a revamp in April 2022, so it looks all modern now. The gated play area has a sew saw, roundabout, nest swing, climbing frame, zip wire, regular swings and slides. Lots to keep big and small children entertained. There is also a cricket and football field nearby.

3. Swim at the Woburn Lido

The Woburn swimming pool has cold water swimming sessions available most of the year. It is an outdoor pool, so it can be very chilly in the winter months. But in the summer season, the water temperature is heated to a pleasant 26°C. The pool is 23 metres long and 9 metres wide. The shallow end is 1m deep and a deeper end of 1.65m

Animal Encounters in Woburn

4. Make new friends at the Animal Edge Woburn

A lovely private animal farm right next to Center Parcs Woburn Forest. Visitors can get close to the animals, who are treated as part of the family by the owners. You can pet the pigs, ponies, goats, chicken, rabbis and guinea pigs. You can also book into a Birthday Party Package. The farm has small picnic area, cafe and shop, where they sell their free-range eggs and seasonal vegetables.

5.Observe the deers at Deer Park Woburn

In the grounds of Woburn Abbey you will find a deer park. The animals roar free in the gardens. It’s a great place to observe them, but keep your distance. This is not a petting zoo. 

6. Imagine you are at the African Savannah as your drive through  Woburn Safari Park

This is a drive-through safari park, where you will be able to see lions, elephants, giraffes, tigers, bears, monkeys and many more. There is also a walk through section with smaller mammals like lemurs, red pandas, birds and otters. Check the timetable before your visit so you don’t miss the keeper talks and animal demonstrations.  Woburn Safari also has a big indoor and outdoor play area, a railway and pedal boats on a lake. 

7. Pet some pigs at the  Petpiggies Pig encounters

A really unique experience to get close to these cute piggies in the heart of Woburn Forest. The pig encounters are fun and educational. You will have to book in advance. Each session lasts about 90 minutes.

Romantic things to do in Woburn

8. Get spoiled at Aqua Sana Woburn

Spend a relaxing day or evening in this Woburn spa. It has 25 innovative experiences, like hydrotherapy showers, herbal inhalation baths, thermal experiences, saunas, salt therapy, water beds, Japanese Zen Garden and outdoor pool just to name a few. They also offer spa and beauty treatments, like full-body massages and manicures. You will need to book tickets ahead of time.

Sport and Fitness in Woburn

9. Play at championship courses at the Woburn Golf Club

It has three championship courses. The club was the first 54 Hole venue to have all three courses ranked in Golf Monthly Magazines TOP 100 Courses in the UK and Ireland. The stylish clubhouse offers excellent hospitality to all guests. A must visit place for all golf lovers.

10. Go Mountain biking at Woburn Bike Trails

Woburn Trails is a great place for mountain bikers. There are trails for cyclists with different abilities. The more advanced have drops and gap jumps. There is also a separate jump area. You will need a Woburn bike trails permit . which you can purchase from the Greensand Trust. The nearby Rushmere Country Park also has bike trails.

11. Learn skateboarding at Woburn Sands Skatepark

This is a small skatepark with metal ramps. It has a quarter-pipe ramp, bank and a funbox. The park is free and always open. Unfortunately, it isn’t very well-kept, but a good place for beginners to try out skateboarding. There is also a playground next to it.

12. Learn gymnastics at the Woburn Sands Gymnastics Center

A fantastic family run gymnastics school. The staff is lovely and well-trained. New members are offered a trial session. 

13. Go horse riding to Aspley Wood

The woodland has several permissive routes. Just make sure you buy a Greensand Horse Riding Pass. 

Unusual things to do in Woburn

14. Get creative at Social Pottery MK

You can choose from over 300 pottery (plates, mugs, vases, decorative items, etc) to paint to your liking. It can be a very fun and therapeutic session. You can do it on your own, with your family or friends. The final results often make a great present and keep-sake. They also organise kids parties.

Walks in Woburn

15. Explore Woburn Woods/Aspley Wood

Aspley Woods is approximately 326ha of mainly conifer plantation. In season there is also a lovely section with bluebells. A great place to explore and you will need several visits to see it all. 

16. Walk the grounds of  Woburn Abbey and Gardens

The home of the 15th Duke and Duchess of Bedford is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. The Abbey is planned to reopen in 2024. In the meantime, the huge parkland surrounding the estate is free to visit. It is a great place for a walk with several ponds, woodlands and deers.

Art and Culture

17. Learn about history at Woburn Heritage Museum

The museum is nestled at the church of Old St Mary’s in the village churchyard. A good place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Woburn. It is free and wheelchair accessible. They also have a secondhand bookshop on the premises.

18. Buy some beautiful art at Woburn Art Gallery

The gallery is run by a group of volunteer artists. They have a lovely selection of original artwork by locals, that are available to purchase.

19. Borrow books at the Woburn Sands Library

They have a wide range of books. The library also organises different activities and events on a regular basis both for children and adults.

Shops in Woburn

20. Buy some unique homeware at Zoohause Woburn

They have a great selection of quality homeware and furniture. Some pieces are really unique. The staff is friendly and helpful. 

21. Get your camping essential from Tony wild camping shop

A lovely family-run business with a huge showroom. You will find several tents on display. The prices are very reasonable and the staff is helpful and knowledgeable. A great place to buy your camping equipment or car camping gear . They sell expedition food , camping fridges , chairs, tables, cookware, etc.

22. Browse the motorbikes at Pure Triumph Woburn

A heaven for motorbike enthusiasts. This shop sells a wide range of new and used bikes and official clothing. They also regularly organise motorcycle workshops. The staff is very kind and happy to help with any questions. They also serve coffee and food in their cafe.

23. Buy some lovely decor at Woburn China & Gift Shop

They sell a wide range of products at reasonable prices. Cutlery, kitchen items, gifts and tableware are among the many things that they stock. You can shop in person or place an order online. 

24. Browse for some unique, quality antiques and art at the Antiques Association 

A lovely antique shop in Woburn, but the prices can be quite high. Don’t forget to bargain!

25. Get some lovely flowers at Woburn Forest Growers

A beautiful horticultural nursery. All their plants and shrubs are grown on-site with the most economical watering system. The staff is very knowledgable and will give you care tips and suggestions about what to plant.

Restaurants in Woburn

Pubs in woburn.

26. Try some British classics at The Flying Fox Woburn

A lovely country pub between Leighton Buzzard and Woburn. In the summer it is lovely to eat in their gardens and in the colder months, you can enjoy the sound and warmth of their crackling log fire inside. They serve pub classics, and seasonal dishes and have a fully stocked bar.

27. Go for a Sunday Roast at The Swan Woburn Sands

A classic British pub with outdoor and indoor seating options. Nicely sized portions and cosy atmosphere.

28. Enjoy a meal with the family and your dog at Black Horse in Woburn

A dog-friendly gastropub with indoor and outdoor seating. Wide range of food, including vegetarian dishes.

29. Enjoy the beer garden at the Weathercock Woburn Sands

This family and dog-friendly pub have been recently refurbished. It has a fantastic indoor and outdoor seating options.

30. Try some seasonal dishes at The Birch at Woburn

A family-owned pub with fantastic service, nice portions of food and reasonable prices.

31. Enjoy some live music at the Royal Oak Woburn

A traditional 17th-century old English pub. Keep your eyes on their social media pages, as they often have special events, like musicians and pop up street food trucks visiting.

32. Soak in the sun in the garden of the Red Lion

Dog-friendly gastropub. In addition to seating options inside and outside, they also offer a takeaway menu.

Italian restaurants in Woburn

33. Eat some authentic Italian meals at Fratelli Woburn

An award-winning, family-owned restaurant serving fresh, authentic Italian dishes. It’s located in a stunning historic building, which adds to the unique atmosphere of the restaurant.

34. Go for brunch at Nonna’s Woburn Sand

An independent family-friendly Mediterranee restaurant in Woburn Sands serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great place to eat at special occasions. Everything is perfect from the service to the food and decor. They also have a takeaway menu.

Afternoon tea in Woburn

35. Celebrate a special occasion at Woburn Coffee House

A beautiful cafe with plenty of outdoor seating as well. Their afternoon tea is outstanding! You can choose from several different options (traditional, vegan, festive, etc)

36. Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at The Woburn

It’s an upscale hotel with its own restaurant, where they also serve afternoon tea. Book ahead of time and enjoy this special experience.

High-end Restaurants

37. Get spoiled with a Michelin Recommended Fine Dining experience at the Paris House Woburn

A really unique, high-end dining experience in a Victorian Tudor-style house inside the stunning deer park of the Woburn Estate. A great place to celebrate a special occasion. All their dishes use the best seasonal produce available. The meals are beautifully presented and interesting.

38. Eat some seafood at Loch Fyne Restaurant and Bar

A high-end restaurant primarily serving seafood, although you can also find some meat and vegetarian dishes as well on the menu. Top-quality British fish & seafood sourced sustainably.

39. Go for a meaty feast at Ottoman Kitchen Woburn Sands

A restaurant serving meze and grill. All their meat is traceable and has been produced responsibly.

Best events in Woburn

40. Meet new people and shop at Woburn Farmers Market

Woburn Market has been trading since Woburn became a Market Town in 1242! It’s been very popular ever since. It is held on the third Sunday of the month in the village centre on ‘the Pitchings’.

41. Meet Father Christmas at Santa’s Grotto Experience – Frosts Garden Centres November, December

Every Christmas season Frosts Garden Centre offers a Santa meet and greet experience. It is a very popular event, many describe it as the best one in the area, so booking ahead of time is essential.  

42. Visit some new places during the Woburn Village Open Gardens Weekend June

An annual event when a  range of gardens are open to the public over the weekend.  

43. Dance at the Woburn Sands Festival August

An exciting 2-day event with live music, food trucks and market stalls.

44. Go ice skating a the Woburn Emporium Ice Skating Rink November-January

The Woburn Sands Emporium garden centre has a pop-up ice rink in the winter. Great fun for the whole family.

Hotels in Woburn

Best for families: Center Parcs Woburn Forest

Perhaps the most popular place to stay among families is the Centre Parcs Hotel Woburn. This branch has an amazing Subtropical Swimming Paradise with pools, slides, water play area and spa treatments.

Best for couples: Woodleys Farmhouse

A cute bed and breakfast situated in a brick farmhouse just a short walk from Woburn Woods. Ideal place for couples.

Best for foodies: The Bell Hotel

The hotel has a fabulous restaurant and bar on site.

Parking in Woburn

Woburn car park: Big, free car park. Handy for High Street shops and also for many walks including the deer park and Woburn Abbey.

Layby on George Street: Max 2 hours free parking for about 7 cars. Good location for some restaurants and for a walk to see the deer park.

Sandy Lane Car Park: Free car park. Convenient location for Woburn Woods.

Longslade Lane Car Park: Free car park for Woburn Woods. The road is quite bumpy to get here.

Car Park On Woburn Road: Free car park for the woodland.

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