Zipworld Tower
Just a 32 minute drive along the A465 from Tan yr Eglwys Cottages is the spectacular Zipworld Tower attraction. It is located just off the A465 Heads of the Valleys road near Rhigos. Our suggested route from the Midlands and beyond to Tan yr Eglwys Cottages, via the M6, M5, M50 and then the A465.
The Zipworld family
This Zipworld Tower attraction is the latest addition to the other 3 Zipworld attractions operating in Wales. These are Zipworld Fforest near Betws-y-Coed, Zipworld Penrhyn Quarry near Bethesda and Zipworld Slate Caverns near Blaenau Ffestiniog. Zipworld Tower near Rhigos above the Neath valley. Zipworld Tower is on the site of the former Tower Colliery. You might initially assume this experience is aimed at the younger thrill seeker, but age is no barrier – we know of a dedicated 70 year old Zipworld fan!
Tower Colliery history
Tower Colliery was the oldest continuously working deep-coal mine in the United Kingdom, and possibly the world. The Colliery closed in 2008. It was the last mine of its kind to remain open in the South Wales Valleys. It was located near the villages of Hirwaun and Rhigos, north of the town of Aberdare in the Cynon Valley, South Wales.
During the lifetime of Tower Colliery, coal was mined from 14 different coal seams. The boundaries of the area mined were defined by faults, seam splits or flooding. Tower Colliery produced good quality coking coal. The coal produced was then washed onsite, in the coal washing plant built during the mid-1980s.
The valleys and hillsides of South Wales have altered beyond recognition in recent decades. Some industrial scars remain, but nature has reclaimed the once bare, industrial landscapes. The valleys are now green and heavily wooded and without industrial pollution, there is lush green plant growth. Mountains that were once barren, scarred and black from pollution are green once again.
Zipworld Tower
The Zipworld Tower location at Rhigos near Hirwaun is an impressive setting, perched on the Rhigos mountain. It sits just outside the Brecon Beacons National Park and has incredible 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside. It is overlooking the many mountains that are collectively known as the Brecon Beacons.
The Phoenix Tower
The thrilling Zipworld experience of the Phoenix is a seated zip line. Participants in search of a never to be forgotten experience soar high above the historical coal mining site. Enjoy the thrill and unparalleled views of the Brecon Beacons National Park as you make the journey down the world’s fastest seated zipline.
Children should be a minimum age of 7 to experience this ride and if between the ages of 7 – 17, then a participating adult is a requirement for this experience.
Tower Coaster
The Tower Coaster experience is unique to the Tower site and is not to be found elsewhere in Europe.
This attraction is a kilometre in length and the price allows for 2 rides of the course to be taken. The driver is required to be a minimum of 9 years of age and must be over 1.35 metres in height. 4 – 8 year olds are able to share this experience.
The speed of the cart is always controlled by the driver. As the cart weaves along the course, chose to be the adrenaline fuelled junkie or travel at a more relaxed pace enjoying the incredible views.
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