If you’re craving a burst of adrenaline and breathtaking scenery, the Giant Swing Experience at Bluewater in Kent is a fantastic choice. For $47.95 per person, you get about an hour of high-altitude excitement, with the chance to swing through the air at 50 mph and 50 meters above ground. It’s a compact, well-organized thrill that offers a memorable mix of daring and stunning views, perfect for those who love a little adventure paired with natural beauty.
We especially appreciated the professional safety briefing and the friendly, approachable instructors who put nervous first-timers at ease. The opportunity to capture footage of your plunge with optional media packages is a real bonus, letting you relive the adrenaline rush later. That said, if heights aren’t your thing, or if you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, this might not be the best fit. It’s best suited for thrill-seekers, adrenaline junkies, or anyone looking to conquer a fear of heights with a safe, guided experience.
Key Points
- High-Altitude Thrill: The swing reaches 50 meters—the highest in Europe—offering unmatched views and excitement.
- Safety First: Qualified instructors and safety briefings ensure a secure experience, even for nervous participants.
- Spectacular Views: During the climb, you’ll enjoy panoramic sights of the surrounding Bluewater area and beyond.
- Media Package: Optional footage access lets you share your adventure easily.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 5 participants) mean more personal attention and better experience.
- Value for Money: At under $50, you get a genuine adrenaline rush with excellent safety measures, making it a worthwhile splurge.
An In-Depth Look at the Kent Giant Swing Experience
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What Makes This Experience Stand Out?
The Giant Swing at Bluewater is Europe’s highest of its kind, and that alone sets it apart. The moment you arrive, the friendly vibe is palpable—staff members welcome you with a warm smile and clear instructions. The check-in takes place inside a large, cream-colored dome directly opposite the House of Fraser car park, making it easy to find.
What truly draws visitors is the combination of scenic views and raw adrenaline. As you’re hoisted 50 meters into the air, you’ll peer out over the sprawling Bluewater shopping complex, the surrounding countryside, and on clear days, glimpses of the distant coast. This perspective makes the free-fall and arc even more memorable—you’re not just swinging for fun; you’re doing so with a stunning backdrop.
The Itinerary: From Safety Briefing to the Final Plunge
Your adventure kicks off with a comprehensive safety briefing from qualified instructors. They’ll fit you with a harness and walk you through what’s happening at each stage, putting any nerves to rest. We found this step reassuring because safety is paramount, especially when dealing with such heights.
Once strapped in, you’ll ascend in a climbing mechanism to the 50-meter peak, dangling at the edge of the cliff with panoramic views all around. This climb is a highlight in itself—an opportunity to pause and soak in the scenery, understanding just how high you’re about to go.
The instructor then gives the signal, and suddenly, you’re free-falling in a controlled, exhilarating descent, followed by a giant arc at over 50 mph. The sensation of gravity pulling you downward is intense but controlled, thanks to the excellent safety measures in place.
What the Experience Feels Like
The actual swing is a pure adrenaline hit. One reviewer described it as “feeling like a roller coaster but with the added thrill of being suspended high above the ground.” The free fall is brief but impactful, and the swing arc provides a long, sweeping view of the landscape, giving you that perfect blend of thrill and sightseeing.
Many appreciate the professionalism of the staff. As one traveler noted, “The team was reassuring and made me feel safe, even as I was hanging there ready to plunge.” This balance of fun and safety is essential for making it accessible to first-timers.
More Great Tours NearbyAfter the Jump: Unharnessing and Sharing
Post-swing, the team helps you out of the harness, and if you opted for the media package, your footage is accessible within 20-30 minutes. Being able to watch your face in that moment of pure adrenaline adds to the fun and makes sharing with friends and family easy.
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Group Size and Accessibility
The activity is limited to small groups of up to five participants, ensuring you don’t feel lost in a crowd. The experience is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal, though it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or anyone afraid of heights.
Practical Details: When, Where, and How
The experience typically lasts around an hour, but check availability to see the specific starting times. It’s best to arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in and get ready. The meeting point is straightforward to find, located opposite the House of Fraser car park.
Pricing at $47.95 is reasonable considering the quality safety measures, the professional staff, and the unique thrill of being in Europe’s tallest swing. Optional media packages add value if you want a keepsake of your adventure.
Considerations and Tips
- Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.
- Not suitable if you’re pregnant or have back issues.
- People afraid of heights should think carefully—this is a high-impact, high-altitude activity.
- Remember, no alcohol or drugs are allowed before the swing, and open-toed shoes or bare feet are not permitted.
Who Would Love This?
This experience suits travelers who enjoy adrenaline activities and spectacular views. It’s perfect if you want to challenge yourself and tick off a bucket list item, especially if you’re visiting Bluewater or nearby Kent. It’s also excellent for groups or couples looking for a shared thrill. If your travel style includes a mix of sightseeing and daring adventures, this is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts
The Giant Swing Experience at Bluewater offers a cost-effective, exhilarating adventure in a beautifully scenic setting. It combines adrenaline, safety, and panoramic views in a way that leaves most visitors buzzing long after the swing ends. The small-group format and professional staff make it accessible and enjoyable, even for first-time thrill-seekers.
While it’s not for those with severe fear of heights or certain health issues, for most, it’s a chance to push boundaries and enjoy a genuinely exciting experience. The optional media package is a lovely bonus, allowing you to relive the moment anytime.
If you’re after a unique, high-altitude thrill that’s well-organized and offers stunning visual rewards, this swing in Kent is definitely worth considering. It’s a perfect blend of adrenaline and sightseeing—an experience you’ll be talking about for years.
FAQ
How long does the activity last?
The entire experience is around 1 hour, including check-in, safety briefing, the climb, the swing, and unharnessing.
What is the price of the experience?
It costs $47.95 per person, with optional media packages available for capturing your ride.
Is it suitable for children?
The activity is generally suitable for those comfortable with heights; however, specific age or height restrictions aren’t detailed. Children should be supervised and comfortable with the concept of heights.
Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those afraid of heights.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where is the meeting point?
The activity starts at the reception located opposite the House of Fraser car park, inside a large cream-colored dome.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the experience is accessible to wheelchair users.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Just wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes—no open-toed shoes or bare feet. Arrive at least 10 minutes early.
Will I get footage of my swing?
Yes, if you purchase the media package, your footage will be available on your phone within 20-30 minutes after the ride.
Is this activity offered in other languages?
The activity is conducted in English.
For thrill-seekers wanting a safe yet exhilarating challenge and spectacular views, the Kent Giant Swing offers bang for your buck. It’s a rare chance to experience Europe’s highest swing with professional guidance and unforgettable scenery—an adventure that’s well worth your time and a great way to add a dash of daring to your trip.
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