Are you seeking an adventure that will leave you exhilarated and your heart racing? Look no further than Lee Valley White Water Rafting. Nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, this purpose-built course is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers looking to experience the rush of white-water rafting. With a range of different courses to suit all levels of experience, from beginners to experts, this is an unforgettable adventure that you won't want to miss. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, bond with friends or family, or simply experience the great outdoors in a new and exciting way, Lee Valley White Water Rafting is a perfect choice. So, grab your paddles, strap on your life jackets, and get ready to ride the rapids for an experience you'll never forget.

Place to stay near Lee Valley White Water Rafting

The History and Design of the Course

Lee Valley White Water Rafting was established in 2011 and was designed specifically for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Whitewater Parks International, a world-renowned provider of white-water venues for competitions and recreational activities, created the course. The course is in the River Lee Country Park, just north of London. It features a unique design that allows for a range of white-water experiences, from the gentle rapids of the Legacy Loop to the challenging Olympic Standard Course.

The course is fed by water from the river Lee and is 300m long. It has a drop of 5.5m and a maximum gradient of 1:6, which provides the perfect conditions for white water rafting. The course is designed to simulate natural white water conditions and comprises a series of pools and drops, each with its unique challenges. The course also has a state-of-the-art pumping system allowing consistent water flow, regardless of the weather.

The Different Courses Available, from Beginner to Expert

Lee Valley White Water Rafting offers a range of courses to suit all levels of experience. The Legacy Loop is perfect for beginners and families, with gentle rapids and calm pools. The course is 300m long and takes around 30 minutes to complete. The Drop is a more challenging course, with faster rapids and bigger drops. This course is 300m long and takes around 45 minutes to complete.

The Olympic Standard Course is the most challenging course at Lee Valley White Water Rafting, and it is the course that was used during the London 2012 Olympic Games. This course is 300m long and takes around 1 hour to complete. The course features a combination of fast rapids, drops, and eddies, providing an exhilarating whitewater experience.

What to Expect on Your White Water Rafting Adventure

When you arrive at Lee Valley White Water Rafting, you will be greeted by experienced and friendly staff who will guide you through the safety procedures and provide you with all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets. You will then be given a safety briefing and a demonstration of how to paddle and steer your raft.

Once you are ready, you will be taken to the course and paired with a guide who will accompany you on your white water adventure. Your guide will provide you with instructions on how to navigate the course, and you will work together as a team to paddle your raft through the rapids and drops.

As you progress through the course, you will encounter a range of different white water features, each with its unique challenges. You may need to paddle harder to get through a rapid, or you may need to steer your raft to avoid a rock or an eddy. But don't worry, your guide will be there to help you every step of the way.

Safety Measures and Equipment Provided

At Lee Valley White Water Rafting, safety is a top priority. All participants are required to wear a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket, which the centre provides. The centre also provides paddles and rafts, which are specially designed for white water rafting.

Before you start your white-water adventure, you will receive a safety briefing and a demonstration of how to paddle and steer your raft. You will also be accompanied by an experienced guide who will provide you with instructions on how to navigate the course.

Tips for First-Time Rafters

If you're new to white water rafting, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you have a great experience. Firstly, make sure you are comfortable in the water and can swim. Secondly, listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow the instructions provided by your guide. Thirdly, work together as a team with your fellow rafters and your guide. And finally, enjoy the experience and have fun!

Other Activities Available at Lee Valley, such as Canoeing and Kayaking

If white water rafting isn't your thing, Lee Valley has plenty of other activities to offer. The centre offers canoeing and kayaking on the river Lee, which is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside and wildlife of Hertfordshire. There are also cycling and walking trails, as well as a range of other adventure activities, such as climbing and abseiling.

How to Book Your White Water Rafting Adventure at Lee Valley

Booking your white-water rafting adventure at Lee Valley is easy. You can book online through the centre's website or by calling their booking hotline. The centre is open all year round, and different courses are available depending on the season.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Lee Valley White Water Rafting is an unforgettable adventure that is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to experience the rush of white-water rafting. With a range of different courses to suit all levels of experience, from beginners to experts, this is an adventure that you won't want to miss. The course is designed to simulate natural white-water conditions, and the experienced guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. So why not grab your paddles, strap on your life jackets, and get ready to ride the rapids for an experience you'll never forget! - Click here to contact the Lee valley white water centre.