Overview

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try the Skypark at Soar (Xscape), Braehead. It's an indoor, ariel obstacle course! This activity isn't accessible for everybody, but may be possible for some who wouldn't have even considered it.

Transport & Parking

Coming by car is easy, Soar/Braehead is just off the M8. They both have their own large car-parks, with many marked disabled bays. The car-park is immediately outside Soar. Coming by public transport might be more difficult. There are buses to it, but I haven't used these.

Access

Access into Soar is great. There is a push-button access door next to the main doors, no steps or ramps at entrance. All main areas have smooth, level floors, and plenty of Space. The Skypark itself though, would not be accessible for everybody. The only way to get to it, is by a spiral staircase, with many steps. This is unfortunate, as it means people who use a wheelchair, or have other mobility difficulties, can't access it, and some would have been able to take part in the activity. The staircase does have a handrail on both sides. When upstairs, you will be given a harness to wear (leg loops, arm loops, and fastened across your front) , you will be helped to put this on. At the Skypark, you are first attached to a rope which secures you to a track above the course. From now on, you remain attached to this throughout. The rope and harness can hold your full body weight, so you can actually just sit in it and be totally safe. If there are any obstacles in the course you can't do, or if you are worried you might not grip them well, have good balance etc, you can be reassured that it's impossible for you to fall! If you're struggling with any of it, you can always get past the obstacle by pushing yourself along the track in your harness. There is also always a member of staff at the course who will help anyone who needs it.

Toilets

There are accessible toilets within Soar (where Skypark is). The main Braehead centre, which is next door has accessible toilets plus a changing places toilet. We did not use any of these on our visit.

Staff

The staff were very helpful! There wasn't any information about accessibility on their website, but on the phone they were very helpful and gave all the information we needed. They were welcoming and friendly when we arrived. I was impressed by the member of staff who came onto the Skypark with us; one member of our group became frightened part-way round the course, he was very calm and reassuring towards them. He gave them plenty of time, and space to make their own choices - we never felt rushed. After doing the Skypark, all were congratulated by the staff for well they had done, and what they had achieved.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

This is a fun, adventurous activity! It is all indoors, so can be done no matter the weather. There are many other activities, shops, restaurants etc in the same centre. Spectators stay at ground level - make sure they bring their camera!