Hazards to Consider

Medical Considerations

• You may find the walk unsuitable if you have a medical history of health conditions which could be exacerbated by exercise. For example, heart conditions such as angina or heart attack, respiratory conditions such as asthma or emphysema, Musculo-skeletal conditions such as back or joint pain or other concerns such as seizures or strokes.
• If you are living with long term conditions like diabetes, it is your responsibility to make all necessary preparations in advance of The Gobbins Experience. You may bring one small waist/bum bag to carry hypo-treatments, please ask if any are available at reception if you forget and where possible we will loan one to you. Hypo treatments will not be provided by The Gobbins. No other bags will be permitted on The Gobbins Experience. If you use an insulin pump and need to bring spare supplies these will be carried by your Guide in their backpack.
• If you require the use of an Epi-pen please ensure it is carried with you and please inform your Guide at the end of the safety brief.

Environmental Considerations:

• Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy walking boots (i.e. thick tread, with ankle support) must be worn. Footwear will be checked before departure and if unsuitable, you may be refused access to the walk. A limited number of walking boots are available for hire at £5 per pair (subject to size availability).
• While measures are taken to minimise and manage the potential for rock fall incidents, the cliffs are part of the natural environment and this remains a possibility. In undertaking this walk, you accept that you may be exposed to such events and understand they could cause you serious harm. No climbing is permitted, and you must stay within the designated boundaries of the path, wear your helmet at all times and always follow the Guides instruction.
• Slip and Trip hazards can occur due to a combination of weather conditions and the uneven surfaces on the access and cliff paths.
• Drinking water is permitted and should be carried in a zipped pocket during the tour.
• Weather along the coast can change suddenly, please come prepared wearing outdoor clothing that is suitable for all possible weather conditions.
• Bags are not permitted on the path, this includes back packs and camera bags. In the interests of safety, cameras should fit in your pockets or be on a strap facing forward. Tablet computers and selfie sticks are not permitted. 'Go Pro' type recording devices may only be used in a body harness and cannot be attached to our helmets or carried on a pole.
• There are no toilets on the path so we would ask that you avail of the facilities before entering the briefing room at the Visitor Centre prior to your tour.
• Due to weather and environmental conditions, we may be required at short notice, to restrict the length of tours for safety reasons. In such instances, no partial refund will be given. The team will endeavour to substitute the tour with access to the top path viewing platform.
• There is a small risk of contracting Weil's disease from coming into contact with wildlife residue, therefore food is not permitted on the path (except hypo treatment) and you are advised to use hand sanitiser after you complete the walk and wash your hands when you return to the Visitor Centre.

Practical Considerations:

• Visitors are required to report to reception at The Gobbins Visitor Centre 15 minutes before their scheduled tour time. If you are running late please call the centre on 028 9337 2318 to discuss options. All visitors to the Cliff Path must attend the Safety Briefing for its full duration.
• The Gobbins tour is unsuitable for young children, those under 1.2 metres (approx. 4ft), will not be permitted to take part. Due to the terrain children may not be carried during the tour. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• All visitors are required to wear a hard hat which is provided. Please note, nothing can be worn under the helmet unless it is for faith or medical reasons.
• Your hands should be kept free to ensure access to handrails, any belongings must be left in our free secure lockers at the Visitor Centre.
• Smoking and vaping is strictly prohibited on The Gobbins Path.
• Animals are not allowed on The Gobbins Path.
• Due to the narrowness of the cliff face path, walking aids are not permitted.
• The tunnel is dark and narrow and may be unsuitable for those suffering from claustrophobia.
• The Gobbins is home to an active bird colony, if you have a fear of birds then this adventure may not be for you.