Climbing walls the size of Kilimanjaro (well, it seemed that high from the bottom, as a novice) in the unlikely setting of the old Plas Power Colliery at Southsea near Wrexham. It aims to provide a great family oriented centre for adventure sports, for the complete novice through to the seasoned professional.

What’s on offer?

Climbing, archery, high ropes course, KMX karting and orienteering – they were expecting a hen party for archery when we were there!

How did you get there?

From the A483 Wrexham bypass (the easiest route) exit at junction 4 following signs for Ruthin and Coedpoeth (A525) Take the second turning right signed Brymbo and Southsea (B5101) After one mile turn left then left again continue downhill for 250 metres, then turn right into the entrance of Plas Power (gates) follow the road to the top of the hill. There is no access to through Colliery Road! The entrance is off Tanyfron road only. Be warned – Sat Nav will take you to the wrong part.

How long did you stay?

We arrived just before 11am and left about 2.30pm. How long you stay is up to you, as there’s plenty of activities.

Did you take a brolly?

We were planning to do the high rope but, after discussion with manager Ian Walton, because of the weather and high winds we changed our plans to the climbing wall inside.

What did you do there?

We took part in an induction lesson, with our very patient and experienced instructor Ian. He explained everything we needed to know, such as different techniques, strict safety guidelines and the various ropes and knots.

We were then given the chance to climb the wall, which is basically a pitted and moulded rock face with crevices, ledges and ominous looking overhangs. Colour coded foot and hand holds stud the walls marking out set climbing routes. You scale across the wall sideways like a Spiderman double – it is a lot harder than it sounds.

Hand and foot suckers may have helped. This is where the trust comes in. To climb you need a partner or be-layer to stand below you, with your rope attached to their harness, to anchor you and stop you falling on to the pea gravel flooring. This is used to reduce injury to ankle and lower limbs, more eco friendly than plastic and foam.

We were then allowed, much to the delight of the kids, to have a go at the KMX karts.

They are highly manoeuvrable and very stable bikes and can be ridden by anyone from six years up. They are building a big following around the world, think BMX crossed with a skate board and a mountain bike but more comfortable. They were invented in the UK and shown on Dragons Den. All hire kit is included in your induction session.

How much did it cost you?

Youth induction for two, £30, adult (min 2) £40.

How about food and drink?

There is a fantastic cafe at the site. We opted for bacon and sausage baps, the size of dustbin lids, and the biggest American muffins I have ever witnessed. All washed down with a welcome hot drink. Excellent value and highly recommended.

Are there any shops?

There is a climbing shop on site selling items such as rock boots, chalk bags and Edelwiess ropes.

Is it ok for kids?

Well we were fascinated by the sight of a three and five-year-old climbing the wall without a care in the world when we were there. The instructor told us the younger you start the easier it is as it’s instinct rather than fear at that age, as we get older the fear of height (and the actual thought of falling) takes over.

Can people with disabilities get around?

The whole centre was designed with disabled access very much in focus. We noticed a ramp at the entrance, there was a disabled toilet and the reception had a low desk with wheel chair users very much in mind. Apparently the KMX Karts have proved to be a hit with disabled groups.

What were the best bits?

Everyone enjoyed the climb. Ian bullied me into having a go, and I reluctantly obliged, clinging on to a wall, eight metres up, with toes jammed into impossibly small crevices trying to work out where to move next is a guaranteed way to clear the mind.

It’s all about trust and confidence, But by the time I'd made it to the top ledge and placed two hands triumphantly on the top I was hooked. Not only is it a fantastic physical and mental workout but you'll get so involved you'll forget that it's exercise as well. James and Danny really enjoyed the karts. you can get quite a speed out of them. They were surprisingly nippy and The sight of one of the workers there doing a few wheelies on one them showed just what fun they could be.

Opening times?

Mon- Weds 5pm-10pm, Thurs-Fri 10am-2pm & 5pm-10pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday & bank holidays 10am-4pm. Plas Power Adventure, Plas Power Road, Southsea, Wrexham, 01978 754 747 www.plaspoweradventure.co.uk