The National White Water Centre in North Wales is celebrating 40 years in operation, marking a major milestone for one of the UK’s leading adventure attractions.
Since its launch in 1985, Canolfan Tryweryn, based in Frongoch, Gwynedd, has grown into a key destination for white water sports, welcoming up to 40,000 visitors annually. The not-for-profit centre employs eight full-time staff alongside more than 40 freelance guides, and has become a focal point for the country’s thriving paddle sports community.
Anniversary celebrations and expansion
To mark its 40th anniversary, the centre is planning a series of special events throughout the year. In addition to offering adrenaline-fuelled activities such as white water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and canyoning, the centre has expanded its facilities in recent years.
Now boasting a café, modern changing rooms, a dedicated kayak shop, a children’s play area, and the scenic Tryweryn Trail, the centre is catering to a growing audience. Operations Manager Bledd Lloyd said the site has also seen an increase in corporate bookings, with more businesses, stag and hen parties, and other groups choosing white water activities as team-building exercises.
“We offer thrilling experiences that are also incredibly safe,” said Lloyd. “We have expert guides, many of whom are world-class kayakers, ensuring every session is as fun and secure as possible.
“We even run family sessions on a gentler river section for children aged 10 and above, but our only requirement for all rafters is that they can swim.”
Supporting Welsh paddle sports and inclusivity
As a not-for-profit organisation, the centre reinvests its earnings into the development of Welsh paddle sports, helping to support homegrown talent. Lloyd emphasised the role the centre plays in nurturing the next generation of elite kayakers.
“Having a world-class kayaking venue in North Wales allows young athletes to hone their skills and compete internationally,” he said.
Over the years, the centre has also built a strong community of paddlers, with many regular visitors returning annually.
“Some of the youngsters who first came here with their parents are now qualified guides and kayak coaches themselves,” said Lloyd.
In addition to its sporting achievements, Canolfan Tryweryn has been recognised for its commitment to accessibility. The centre has received awards from the North Wales Deaf Association and has been featured in the Lonely Planet Accessible Travel Guide. It has also contributed to the development of a postural support system for individuals with disabilities.
A legacy of safety and training
Beyond adventure sports, the centre has played a vital role in safety training, running accredited rescue and first aid courses for organisations across the UK, including emergency services personnel.
“Our training in water rescue and flood response has grown significantly, attracting groups from across the country,” said Lloyd.
Reflecting on the centre’s four decades of success, Lloyd credited the combination of natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and continuous innovation.
“We were the UK’s first white water rafting venue, and we remain the best,” he said. “Our setting, with river levels enhanced by controlled dam releases, makes us unique.
“We’ve been here for 40 years, and we look forward to many more, continuing to grow and evolve.”
