Think white-water rafting and you might be having visions of dramatic rivers wending their way over rocks in some kind of tropical jungle-type setting. But astonishingly, you can try your hand (or oar) at this daredevil sport without leaving London. Lee White Water Centre is a former London 2012 Olympic Games venue is open to the public for adrenalin-fuelled white-water rafting, canoeing and kayaking sessions – and riding the rapids that challenged the world's best makes for an action-packed experience.
In addition to rafting, the lake, Legacy course and Olympic course are used for a number of water-based activities catering for everyone from complete beginners to kids to more proficient paddlers. You can also try Hydrospeeding, which is similar to bodyboarding, or Hot Dog sessions, which are held on two person inflatables and acts as a good introduction to kayaking. Corporate and team building days out can be booked and, during the summer, the centre hosts canoe polo as well as aquathlons.
Those who prefer to sit back and watch the action should head for the licensed café bar, which has a terrace overlooking the course. For opening times and seasons see the website.