Zip World Conwy, a prominent UK attraction housed within the former Adventure Parc Snowdonia, has unexpectedly announced its permanent closure, leaving many families disappointed. Launched in March 2024 following the closure of the surf lagoon the previous year, Zip World Conwy promised a thrilling indoor adventure experience. Despite plans to reopen after the winter season in February half-term, the company made the difficult decision to cease operations with immediate effect. This sudden closure marks the end of a brief but impactful chapter for the attraction, leaving a void in the region’s entertainment landscape.
The announcement, delivered via social media, expressed gratitude to guests and supporters while acknowledging the gravity of the decision. The reasons behind the closure remain undisclosed, leaving room for speculation and raising concerns about the viability of similar ventures in the area. Customers with existing bookings were assured they would be contacted by Zip World to arrange refunds or alternative arrangements. The closure has sparked disappointment among families who frequented the site, with many sharing fond memories of their experiences and lamenting the loss of a beloved entertainment option.
Zip World Conwy offered a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities catering to various ages and thrill-seeking levels. Inside the repurposed facility, “Adrenaline Indoors” boasted a ninja assault course, exhilarating slides, jump zones, rope courses, and monkey bars. “Elevation Indoors” offered a challenging high ropes course, while “Altitude Climber” provided a massive climbing wall for those seeking vertical ascents. The indoor soft play area catered to younger children, featuring multi-level obstacles, slides, and a ball pit. Outdoors, the “Adrenaline Drop” tested bravery with a 40-foot freefall. For extended stays, 30 heated camping pods with outdoor decking nestled on the site’s perimeter provided comfortable accommodation.
This closure contrasts sharply with the broader success and expansion of the Zip World brand. Three other Zip World locations continue to operate in Wales, each boasting unique attractions. Zip World Penrhyn Quarry, for instance, is renowned for hosting the world’s fastest zip line. Zip World Llechwedd houses the world’s first underground golf course, opened in 2022, and Europe’s pioneering four-person zip line. Zip World Fforest offers the UK’s sole alpine coaster, offering a distinct thrill ride through forested terrain. Beyond Wales, Zip World has expanded to Manchester, Windermere, and even London’s Olympic Park, demonstrating the brand’s ambition and wider appeal. This raises further questions as to the specific challenges faced by the Conwy location.
The recent launch of “Aero Explore,” the UK’s first zipline roller coaster, at another Zip World site showcased the company’s ongoing innovation in adventure tourism. Furthering this pursuit of novel experiences, Zip World has submitted plans for “The Swing,” a thrilling new ride concept. Harnessed to a rail, passengers on The Swing would navigate a 400-meter track at speeds of up to 30 mph, adding yet another layer of excitement to the Zip World repertoire. This continuous development underscores the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and diversifying its offerings, a stark contrast to the closure of the Conwy branch.
While the closure of Zip World Conwy is undoubtedly a setback for the region and a disappointment to its loyal patrons, the wider Zip World brand appears to be thriving. The company’s other locations continue to operate and innovate, offering a diverse range of thrilling experiences across the UK. This suggests that the Conwy closure is likely attributable to site-specific factors rather than a wider downturn for the adventure tourism sector. The focus now shifts to the future of the former Adventure Parc Snowdonia site and whether another venture will emerge to capitalize on its unique potential and infrastructure. The abundance of other indoor attractions across the UK, particularly those designed for rainy days, offers alternatives for families seeking entertainment, but the distinctive combination of experiences at Zip World Conwy will undoubtedly be missed.
