A ‘first’ for tourism…. Galloway Activity Centre is innovating!
This will attract more visitors to the centre and throughout Dumfries and Galloway.
The Galloway Activity Centre will shortly open Scotland’s highest 3G Giant Swing! The Swing will be officially launched by Paula Ward, Visit Scotland’s Regional Director on Sat 8 July at 1030.
She will be accompanied by Finlay Carson MSP for Dumfries Galloway and also by a number of Police Scotland Youth Volunteers. Paula and Finlay will trial the swing in front of a large crowd at the Galloway Activity Centre’s annual open day.
The swing is 40 foot high. It can take up to three people on it at a time. It is designed to be completely inclusive and has already been used by a 3-year-old as well as a 70-year-old!
In short, participants mount the swing via a wooden buggy which is then wheeled away to leave them dangling in mid-air. Thereafter, they are winched up to the maximum height of 40 foot. The swing is released by a simple parachute mechanism at any stage during the ascent. Thus, people can go as high or as far and fast as they wish. On release, the swing descends at high speed leaving stomachs behind! It is completely safe and because it swings, there is no sensation of whiplash despite the speed of descent.
This new activity compliments a huge range of activities already being run at the Centre, both on and off the water. It also compliments the different range of accommodation facilities from Authentic Mongolian Yurts (Glamping) to new Eco Lodges as featured on George Clark’s amazing spaces. The centre aims to provide experiences in a fun, safe and informative environment using highly qualified and dedicated staff.
Galloway activity centre was nominated as the region’s champion for innovation in tourism in 2016. It also maintains trip advisor’s certificate of excellence for the fifth consecutive year as well as being a regional ambassador for sustainability, having gained Gold Status from the Carbon Crichton Centre for its sustainability improvement processes.
New activities and investments in the near future include Scotland’s only night Wild Swim (8 September 2017) and a new underground hobbit house scheduled for 2019!
Richard Hermon, Director of Galloway Activity Centre, said:
“I’m delighted to have introduced a first for engineering and design when it comes to adventure activities. I am sure people from all over the UK and further afield will be keen to experience this activity, as well as some other incredible opportunities for all ages and abilities. Besides the opportunity to participate in adventure experiences, there is also the chance to enjoy a unique Loch-side stay in some incredible structures set within magnificent Scottish scenery.”
“Our significant investment into this swing will further add to the exciting outdoor activity and accommodation portfolio offered at Galloway Activity Centre. We anticipate this and other new ideas (for example; lochside wedding venue, sailing for the disabled, dragon boating event in aid of Barnardo’s Scotland and Wild Swimming events )will extend the season and create new jobs here. Our current new accommodation occupancy is at 80% and on busy days the centre has provided activities for up to 200 people.
We anticipate Scotland’s new tourism attraction – will bring in £25K and this year’s investment to bring up to another 1500 new visitors to the centre which will be a real boost for this part of Scotland.”
“Research from national tourism organisation shows that activity holidays in Scotland are worth £848 million to the Scottish economy. We are proud to be part of this, playing a small role helping to provide some of the best that Scotland has to offer.”
Paula Ward, Regional Director of VisitScotland, said: “The opening of the 3 G Swing at Galloway Activity Centre is a first for Scottish tourism and a perfect example of how the tourism industry is embracing new ideas to compete in a competitive global market.
“The giant swing is an exciting addition to the activities on offer at Galloway Activity Centre which is sure to prove a hit with the many visitors – families especially – who come to Dumfries & Galloway to enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor experiences.
“Scotland’s reputation as a quality destination relies on continued investment and innovation to ensure current provision meets future demand. The opening of this new activity for all of the family demonstrates a real commitment to further enhancing our region’s tourism offering and attracting more visitors to Dumfries & Galloway.”
Finlay Carson, MSP, said: “Dumfries and Galloway is fast becoming the place to visit for outdoor adventure.
I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to experience the new swing in action, which I am sure will be a major draw for thrill seekers.
“This is yet another first for Dumfries and Galloway, innovating in tourism. I am positive this will have a great impact on tourism within the region.”
