Zip World Tower: South Wales’ Premier Adventure Hub
Experience the world’s fastest seated zip line and Europe’s unique coaster track on the historic Tower Colliery site in scenic South Wales.
Zip World Tower, located in Aberdare, South Wales, is an exhilarating outdoor adventure destination set on the historic Tower Colliery site. It features the world’s fastest seated zip line, Phoenix, and Europe’s unique 1-kilometre two-seater coaster track, the Tower Coaster. With family-friendly activities, a café, and stunning views, it offers thrills and fun for all ages amid a rich mining heritage backdrop.
A brief summary to Zip World Tower
- Zip World Tower, Treherbert Road, Aberdare, Hirwaun, CF44 9UF, GB
- +441685706666
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your adventure online in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
- Wear warm, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor activities.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled activity for check-in and safety briefings.
- Enjoy a meal or snack at the Blondin Restaurant with panoramic views of the quarry.
- Parking fees apply on-site; these support maintenance and improvements of the facilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Cardiff takes about 40 minutes via the A470 and A4059. On-site parking is available but requires a fee, which supports maintenance. Note that parking can be busy during peak times.
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Aberdare station from Cardiff Central (approximately 50 minutes), then a local bus or taxi to Zip World Tower, about 15 minutes away. Bus services may have limited frequency on weekends.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Aberdare station and nearby towns, offering a flexible option with a typical journey time of 10–15 minutes. Prices vary but expect around £10–£15 per trip.
Zip World Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Zip World Tower
Historic Roots and Modern Thrills
Nestled on the grounds of the former Tower Colliery, Zip World Tower pays homage to South Wales’ deep mining heritage while delivering cutting-edge adventure experiences. The site’s transformation from an industrial coal mine to a vibrant outdoor activity park symbolizes the region’s resilience and reinvention. Visitors can appreciate the juxtaposition of history and adrenaline as they explore the expansive grounds.Signature Adventures: Zip Lines and Coasters
At the heart of Zip World Tower is the Phoenix, the world’s fastest seated zip line, which propels thrill-seekers at breathtaking speeds across the valley. Complementing this is the Tower Coaster, a unique 1-kilometre two-seater coaster track that offers a thrilling ride through the rugged landscape, unparalleled anywhere else in Europe. Both attractions are designed to deliver exhilarating experiences while prioritizing safety and accessibility.Family-Friendly Adventure Zone
Beyond the high-speed thrills, Zip World Tower caters to younger visitors with the Adventure Zone, featuring mini zip lines and climbing challenges tailored to children. This ensures that families can enjoy a day out together with activities appropriate for all ages, fostering fun, confidence, and active play in a secure environment.On-Site Amenities and Visitor Experience
The site includes the Blondin Restaurant, where guests can enjoy meals with floor-to-ceiling views overlooking the quarry, enhancing the immersive experience. The viewing terrace offers a prime vantage point to watch adventurers in action, making it a social and scenic hub. Parking is available on-site with fees reinvested into maintaining the facilities.Accessibility and Location
Situated near Aberdare in the South Wales Valleys, Zip World Tower is accessible by car and public transport, with regular bus and train services nearby. It lies approximately 40 minutes from Cardiff, making it an ideal day trip destination. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred adventure times.Seasonal Operations and Practical Tips
Open year-round except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, Zip World Tower adjusts its operating hours seasonally with extended times during peak periods. Guests should wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Safety briefings and weight checks are part of the check-in process to ensure a safe experience for all participants.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Y Bwlwarcau
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Fan Frynych
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YHA Brecon Beacons
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Brecon Beacons
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Uncover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Brecon Beacons, a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Wales.
Corn Du
19.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Corn Du, a majestic peak in the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Pen y Fan
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Discover Pen y Fan: the breathtaking peak of the Brecon Beacons, offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in South Wales.
Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion
19.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion, a hiker's paradise in Merthyr Tydfil, where nature and tranquility converge.
Fan y Bîg
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fan y Bêg in Brecon Beacons National Park, where stunning hikes await in the heart of nature.
Tours of Wales
20.0 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Fan Brycheiniog
20.2 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Fan Brycheiniog for stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in Wales' beautiful Brecon Beacons.
Parc Bryn Bach
20.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational fun of Parc Bryn Bach in Tredegar, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Glamorgan Family History Society
20.9 km
Explore your roots at the Glamorgan Family History Society, where Welsh heritage and family history come alive in the heart of Bridgend.
Dramatic Heart of Wales
22.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the Dramatic Heart of Wales, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Bedwellty House and Park
22.0 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Bedwellty House and Park, a historic gem in Tredegar offering beautiful gardens and serene landscapes.
Brynna Woods
22.1 km
Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Brynna Woods, a peaceful nature reserve in Pontyclun, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Unmissable attractions to see
Zip World Top
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking zip-lining thrills and stunning Welsh countryside views at Zip World Top, Port Talbot’s ultimate adventure destination.
Dinas Rock
3.9 km
Explore the towering limestone cliffs, ancient hillfort, and enchanting waterfalls of Dinas Rock in the heart of Wales’ Waterfall Country.
Sgwd Gwladys
4.2 km
Discover the enchanting 7-meter cascade of Sgwd Gwladys, a legendary waterfall nestled in South Wales’ scenic Waterfall Country.
Waterfall Country
4.2 km
Discover the enchanting cluster of waterfalls and ancient woodlands in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park, where rivers carve dramatic gorges.
Penderyn Brecon Beacons Distillery - Visitor Centre and Shop
4.7 km
Discover the home of Welsh whisky in the Brecon Beacons – tour the original Penderyn Distillery, see the Faraday still, and taste award-winning single malts.
Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall
5.7 km
Walk behind the stunning 50-foot curtain of water at Sgwd yr Eira, the enchanting Waterfall of Snow in Wales’ Brecon Beacons.
Sgwd Gwladys Waterfall
5.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sgwd Gwladys, a graceful 7-meter waterfall nestled in Wales’ scenic Waterfall Country.
Sgwd y Pannwr
6.0 km
Discover the serene tiered cascade of Sgwd y Pannwr, a scenic highlight of the Four Waterfalls Walk in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn
6.3 km
Discover the serene multi-tiered cascades of Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, a tranquil jewel on the Four Waterfalls Walk in Wales’ Brecon Beacons.
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall
6.6 km
Discover the cascading beauty of Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, a serene multi-step waterfall nestled in the lush woodlands of South Wales’ Brecon Beacons.
Four Waterfalls Walk
6.9 km
Discover the enchanting Four Waterfalls Walk, a scenic 9 km trail through ancient woodland and cascading falls in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park.
Hawk Adventures
8.1 km
Experience bespoke outdoor adventures in South Wales’ stunning Brecon Beacons with Hawk Adventures—where safety, thrill, and nature unite.
Porth yr Ogof
8.2 km
Explore Wales’ largest cave entrance, a thrilling limestone labyrinth carved by the Afon Mellte in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Afan Forest Park
8.9 km
Explore world-class mountain biking and scenic trails in the lush Afan Forest Park, a vibrant outdoor adventure hub in South Wales.
Cadair Fawr
9.5 km
Accessible mountain views across South Wales' rolling landscape, perfect for all abilities.
Essential places to dine
The Red Lion Inn, Penderyn
4.6 km
A cozy Welsh gastropub blending traditional charm, local flavors, and legendary roasts in the scenic village of Penderyn.
Carnivore By The Mine
5.9 km
A cozy meat-lover’s haven in Neath, blending hearty dishes with heartfelt mining heritage and warm local charm.
Mango House Restaurant
11.1 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil’s Cefn-coed-y-cymmer.
Rhydycar Harvester
12.3 km
Casual family dining with classic British flavors and welcoming amenities in Merthyr Tydfil’s Rhydycar Leisure Park.
Penycae Inn Ltd
12.5 km
Cozy gastropub in the heart of South Wales offering fine Welsh cuisine, scenic mountain views, and a unique family-friendly atmosphere.
Aberglais Inn
12.9 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Merthyr Tydfil offering hearty British classics, vegan and gluten-free options, with a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Abercrave Inn
13.3 km
A rustic Welsh country inn offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy charm, and a peaceful rural retreat in Abercraf.
Pentrebach House Table Table
13.5 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly charm and hearty meals in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil.
The Pantyscallog Inn
14.6 km
A beloved steakhouse in Pant, Merthyr Tydfil, known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Red Cow Inn
14.9 km
A charming traditional Welsh pub in Pontsticill offering hearty home-cooked meals, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Llangeinor Arms
16.4 km
Authentic Welsh gastropub serving hearty home-cooked meals and local craft beers in a warm, welcoming setting in Bettws, Mid Glamorgan.
The Colliers Arms
16.5 km
Discover the charm of The Colliers Arms – where delicious food meets friendly faces in Port Talbot's welcoming atmosphere.
T Bones
17.2 km
Rustic British dining with hearty portions and warm service at a charming farm location in Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot.
The Welsh House
18.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy Neath setting with a charming beer garden and locally sourced dishes.
The Farmers Arms
18.7 km
Historic farmhouse pub in Rhymney offering scratch-cooked Welsh cuisine, a full bar, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kindle House
15.2 km
Whimsical Victorian boutique where curated rooms and creative collections inspire joy and discovery.
The Works
18.6 km
Explore The Works in Neath for a unique shopping experience filled with books, art supplies, and delightful gifts for all ages.
Zoar's Ark Pet Superstore
18.7 km
Family-run since 1949, Zoar's Ark Pet Superstore offers expert pet care, equestrian supplies, and country living essentials in a welcoming Neath setting.
West View Stores
19.8 km
Experience the warmth of Trelewis at West View Stores - your local supermarket for fresh produce and unique Welsh delicacies.
Welcome Stores - Skewen
21.1 km
Discover Skewen’s friendly local supermarket offering fresh essentials, Welsh treats, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
C & C Stores
21.1 km
A welcoming family-run supermarket in Skewen offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with friendly service.
Skewen Local Store
21.3 km
Experience local shopping at Skewen Local Store, where fresh produce meets friendly service, perfect for all your grocery needs during your visit.
S & S Stores Skewen
21.6 km
A welcoming local supermarket in Skewen offering groceries, confectionery, and soft drinks with friendly service and convenient hours.
The Gift Company
21.7 km
Discover unique gifts and home furnishings with a family touch at The Gift Company in Bridgend’s Designer Outlet.
Designer Outlet Bridgend
21.7 km
Explore Designer Outlet Bridgend for unbeatable deals on top brands, delicious dining options, and an exciting shopping experience in Wales.
Izzy Roo's
22.0 km
Explore Izzy Roo's in Tredegar for unique gifts and local crafts, capturing the essence of the region's charm and creativity.
Gwent Shopping Centre
22.0 km
A vibrant retail hub in Tredegar offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Aloe Shop
22.6 km
Natural wellness products and organic beauty essentials in Swansea's Birchgrove neighborhood.
SPAR - Park Avenue
22.8 km
Discover convenience at SPAR - Park Avenue, your essential stop for snacks, local products, and travel supplies in Port Talbot.
Birchgrove Convenience Store
22.8 km
Discover the local charm and convenience at Birchgrove Convenience Store, your one-stop shop in Swansea for all essentials and delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dyffryn Arms
18.7 km
A classic Welsh pub in Neath offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Pennsylvania
19.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Briton Ferry Road, The Pennsylvania offers a classic Welsh community gathering spot with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Pontardawe Inn
20.1 km
Lively, dog-friendly pub in Pontardawe offering hearty food, real ales, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome in a cozy setting.
The Tyn
20.8 km
A charming Baglan pub blending Welsh hospitality, local ales, and lively events in a cozy setting with a popular beer garden.
The Globe Inn
22.6 km
A welcoming village pub and restaurant in Glais, Swansea, serving classic dishes with a friendly atmosphere and affordable prices.
The Bridgend Inn
22.8 km
A traditional Swansea pub offering hearty fare, friendly vibes, and a lively social scene in Birchgrove.
Bowens Arms
22.9 km
A friendly and affordable pub in Birchgrove offering hearty meals, quality ales, and a welcoming local atmosphere in Swansea.
Village Tavern
23.4 km
A friendly and affordable local pub in Clydach, Swansea, offering classic British pub charm with good music and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Overdraft
23.7 km
A boutique cocktail bar in Clydach blending heritage charm with expertly crafted drinks and a warm, welcoming vibe.
The Little Bar On The Bridge
24.5 km
A charming, intimate craft beer bar on Bridgend’s Old Stone Bridge, offering quality brews and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Millers Arms
24.6 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub in Ynystawe offering hearty homemade meals and a warm community atmosphere just outside Swansea.
Bar 141 (The Smiths)
24.9 km
Lively bar and restaurant in Swansea Enterprise Park offering hearty meals, diverse cuisines, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Coach
25.1 km
Historic Bridgend brewpub blending 19th-century charm with modern craft beers, lively events, and a welcoming community vibe.
Pipeworks Bar
25.4 km
A cozy micro bar in Pontyclun offering craft keg beers, ciders, and gins in a friendly, unique atmosphere with occasional live music.
Tafarn Tawe
25.4 km
Lively and welcoming bar at Swansea University Bay Campus, perfect for drinks, events, and socializing in a vibrant student atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Top Club
11.5 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
12.0 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
12.4 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
Squares Night club
16.3 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
18.8 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
21.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Eclipse Nightclub
22.1 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Northcote Conservative Club
26.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Northcote Conservative Club, Brecon's premier destination for nightlife, music, and local culture.
Brecon Jazz Club (Muse Arts Centre)
27.0 km
Discover the heart of jazz in Brecon at the Brecon Jazz Club, where live music and a vibrant atmosphere collide for an unforgettable night.
Brecon Working Mens Club
27.0 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Working Mens Club, where locals gather for drinks and camaraderie in a charming setting.
BRECON JAZZ
27.0 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Brecon Jazz, an intimate venue celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music in the heart of Wales.
Popworld - Swansea
29.1 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
PlanB
29.5 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Cuba Escape
29.5 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
Sin City
29.7 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly