New 'immersive' virtual reality ride set to open at south Essex garden centre
A NEW virtual reality ride is set to open at a garden centre this weekend in the bid to add “affordable fun” for families.
Scott’s of Southend Nursery and Garden Centre, based in Rochford, will open the new attraction this weekend and tickets are already being sold online.
The virtual reality ride will be a feature throughout the year, with the theme changing for Halloween and Christmas.
READ MORE >> Southend’s Jill Allen-King OBE pays tribute to ‘kind’ star Paul O’Grady
It will begin with a “jungle run” theme which sees families whizz through the jungle.
Alice Worby, the social media and event manager said: “Housed in our themed jungle house once aboard, you will be seamlessly transported into the virtual boat house using our HD VR headsets.
“Your intrepid journey will soon begin, along with the incredible range of motions our boat has to offer; two front fans and surround sound for a fully immersive 4D experience.
“Tilting forwards, backwards and side to side, the boat’s movements have been specially designed to mirror those of the full 360-degree experience, creating a truly spectacular journey for all the family.”
Guests will have to book in advance with walk-in’s only available this weekend. Booking, depending on availability, can however be made on the day.
Alice added: “We wanted to offer something fun and affordable for families all throughout the year.
“It is a permanent fixture of the garden centre, and we will be running throughout summer with the jungle run. Then at Halloween we will have a fun spooky ride, and a magical Christmas makeover.
“We are always looking to offer the families of the area something new.
“We have also just added our new kids’ afternoon tea to our menu in our kitchen too.
So, you can have a full day out at Scott’s of Southend.”
The VR ride is located at the bottom of the garden centre in the polytunnel next to the Hungry Harrys’ food and drink hut.
It can seat up to eight people and offers a “perfect family attraction all year round”.
There is no set age range, with Scott’s of Southend stating it is up to the parents to decide what is suitable for their child. However, under 6’s will need a paid adults with them on the ride at all times.
Tickets cost £3.75 and to book, visit https://bit.ly/3nth06b