,Rugby fans from across Europe will have the chance to zip wire from the Tyne Bridge during the European Rugby Finals weekend.
The zip wire, which is the longest ever from the Tyne Bridge, will be open from 3pm on Thursday 9 May through to 7pm on Saturday 11 May. Early bird tickets are on sale for £15 until Sunday 5 May and can be ordered online here. After 5 May tickets will be £20 and, while a limited number of tickets will be available for walk ups, organisers have encouraged people to book in advance to guarantee their zip wire experience.
The zip wire will bring fans into the official fan village – the Champions Rugby Village. Once there, fans can enjoy family-friendly activities, food and drink stalls and a stage and big screen for entertainment.
Tens of thousands of fans from across Europe will descend on Newcastle to see ASM Clermont Auvergne v La Rochelle in the European Rugby Challenge Cup Final on Friday 10 May and Leinster Rugby v Saracens in the Heineken Champions Cup Final on Saturday 11 May.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to arrive for my zip wire?
Participants must arrive at the zip wire check-in desk (beside the Newcastle Guildhall, Newcastle Quayside, NE1 3AF) 15 minutes prior to their booked time slot (i.e. if you have a 3pm ticket, please check-in at 2.45pm).
Can participants with medical conditions take part in the event?
It is important that you understand what is involved with a zip slide, you must declare and discuss any medical conditions which may prevent your involvement.
Participants travel down the wire at approximately 25mph and are stopped manually with two braking lines attached to the wire. The resulting impact does jerk the body and participants with any existing medical conditions, such as back or neck injuries should contact Zip Slides UK.
Can disabled people take part in the event?
Zip Slides UK is very keen to provide disabled people with the opportunity to take part in its events. Please speak to Zip Slides UK about specific disabilities.
What is the maximum weight for participants?
The maximum weight for participants is 17.5 stone (111kg). Participants may also need to be fitted with a chest harness in addition to the waist harness.
What is the minimum weight for participants?
The minimum weight for participants is 6 stone (38kg). Zip Slides UK reserve the right to prevent a participant from doing an event if they are too light.
What is the minimum age for participants?
Zip Slides UK recommend 12 as the minimum age for participating in these events. Any participants under the age of 16 will need to have a parent or guardian present at the event to provide written consent.
What is the maximum age for participants?
These activities are mentally and physically challenging. However any older person will not be stopped from having a go if they believe themselves to be fit enough. If there is any doubt, we advise the participant that they should consult their doctor.
Can people participate while in fancy dress?
Most costumes can be accommodated where harness, helmet, etc. can be fitted over the costume. However, ZIP Slides UK reserve the right to refuse the participation of someone in fancy dress if we think the costume will compromise safety. Participants are advised to wear sensible clothing, footwear and warm and wet weather clothing.
All participants must be sober. If a participant arrives to check in and has been drinking, Zip Slides UK reserve the right to refuse that person to ride the zip wire without refund.