The Zip Wire at Bournemouth Pier, sold as PierZip, starts from a steel tower at the seaward tip of the pier and sends riders 250 metres over the water to the beach. RockReef, which operates it, describes it as the first pier-to-shore zip line in the world. The two wires run side by side, so a pair can race from the tower to the landing point on the sand, an unusual way to reach Bournemouth beach.
Tickets and who can ride
Rides are booked online ahead of time as solo, dual (2-person) or Friends & Family (4-person) tickets, and going a second or third time costs less. To ride you must be 6 or over, at least 1.3 metres tall and weigh between 30kg and 120kg; pregnant women cannot take part on safety grounds. You can add a video recording of your descent, and a "Climb 'N Fly" package pairs PierZip with entry to RockReef's climbing walls and rope courses on the pier.
Opening pattern
Weather allowing, PierZip runs every weekend of the year and daily through school half terms, July and the summer holidays. January is given over to annual maintenance, when it is closed. Because the exact hours move with the season, check RockReef's website on the day you plan to go.
The ride is positioned at the gateway to Bournemouth's well-known beach, so it fits naturally with a stroll along the pier or a dip in the sea below. Our guide to things to do in Bournemouth has more suggestions.