I want counting, but it feels like it’s been a couple of minutes in our ascent to the top of the first. How high are we going?!
365m high to be exact. At least it’s a nice view through the forest. We can hear the screams from riders in front of us and the noise of the sledges whoosing on the rails.
We finally reach the top and push the handbrake down.
With nothing but gravity, it’s a thrilling 710m journey down to the bottom full of twists and turns.
And you can see there are brake signs on sharp turns. We followed those brake signs as it felt very fast, reaching speeds of 25mph and gradients of 25% gradient.
You get three rides and each ride takes around 6 minutes with prices starting at £22 per adult driver. A driver and child (3yrs-8yrs) starts at £33.
We (two adults in our thirties) went on one sledge which is bit of a squeeze, but I think this was more thrilling to share the experience! It probably made the ride all the more dangerous as we were very close to the max 150kg weight limit.
You can add a small video camera to the front of the sledge (you’re not really supposed to have your phone out on the ride but we saw plenty of people do this. Afterwards, you can preview the video and buy it for £8.
I would say the only negative about the experience was the queuing. When we started to queue at our allocated time. We joined the back of the queue of the group before us who were on their third run.
Overall, I’m glad we rode the coaster and would recommend it!
Rating
https://www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/fforest-coaster
Zip World Fforest, A470, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0HX
If the Fforest coaster isn’t for you, you could try Europe’s highest five seater swing (which looked even scarier too be honest), zip lining or tree hopping.
History of Fforest Coaster
The Fforest Coaster is the UK’s first alpine coaster, opened in 2017 by Zip World in the Conwy Valley near Betws-y-Coed, North Wales. Inspired by traditional European mountain coasters, it was designed to offer a gravity-driven thrill ride through 120 acres of forest. Riders ascend 300 metres before racing down a 700-metre track at speeds of up to 25 mph, weaving between trees and banking around sharp bends.
Built to blend adrenaline with nature, the coaster uses manual brakes so riders control their own speed. It’s suitable for all weather and all seasons, making it a year-round attraction. The coaster is part of Zip World Fforest, which also includes high ropes, net adventures, and Europe’s highest five-seater swing. With its scenic woodland setting and family-friendly design, the Fforest Coaster has become a standout experience in Snowdonia, combining outdoor adventure with sustainable tourism and Welsh hospitality.
10 Interesting Facts About Fforest Coaster
- It’s the first alpine coaster in the UK, opened in May 2017.
- The track spans 1,075 metres, with a 300m ascent and 700m descent.
- Riders control their speed using manual brake levers.
- The coaster reaches speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/h).
- Each ticket includes three rides, allowing you to build confidence and speed.
- The ride operates year-round, even in rain and snow.
- The coaster is set in 120 acres of forest, rich in wildlife and birdsong.
- The track includes 10 banked bends, designed for thrill and safety.
- It’s part of a larger adventure park with seven activities at Zip World Fforest.
- The coaster was built with sustainability in mind, using low-impact construction.
Things to See and Do at Fforest Coaster
- Ride the Coaster (Three Times!)
Enjoy three thrilling descents through the forest. Each ride lasts around six minutes, with increasing confidence and speed. - Control Your Speed
Use the brake levers to adjust your pace — go slow for the views or fast for the adrenaline. - Enjoy the Scenic Ascent
Relax during the 4-minute cable-pulled climb through peaceful woodland, listening to birdsong and watching the trees pass by. - Capture Your Ride on Camera
Pre-book a camera to record your adventure. Footage is downloadable to your phone for sharing and keepsakes. - Visit the Tipi Bar and Fforest Caffi
Refuel with hot drinks, snacks, or meals in cosy woodland cafés after your ride. - Explore Other Zip World Adventures
Try Zip Safari, Plummet, Skyride, or Treetop Nets — all located on-site for a full day of fun. - Browse the Gift Shop
Pick up Zip World souvenirs, adventure gear, and local crafts. - Relax in the Woodland Setting
Enjoy the natural surroundings, picnic areas, and fresh mountain air. - Bring the Family
Children aged 3–8 can ride with a driver aged 9+; older kids can ride solo with supervision. - Stay Overnight
Book a Forest Lodge or Camping Pod nearby for a full adventure getaway.
Practical Information for Visiting Fforest Coaster
- Location: Zip World Fforest, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, Wales LL24 0HX
- Opening times: Daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (may vary seasonally)
- Entry: From £25 per person (includes 3 rides); £35 for driver + child combo
- Tickets: Book online in advance via Zip World – Fforest Coaster
- Parking: Paid on-site (£3 per vehicle); pre-booking available
- Accessibility: Ground-level access; coaster via steps; not suitable for all mobility needs
- Dogs: Welcome on site (not on rides); must be supervised by non-participant
- Food: Fforest Caffi and Tipi Bar on site
- Toilets: Available, including accessible facilities
- Nearby: Betws-y-Coed village, Swallow Falls, Gwydir Forest Park, Snowdonia National Park