April 2026

22 April 2026 marked the 15th anniversary of Lee Valley White Water Centre, London 2012’s first purpose-built Olympic venue.

Since opening in 2011, the site has welcomed nearly five million visitors – from first-time paddlers to Olympic champions – cementing its status as one of the world’s most iconic white water facilities.
The milestone coincides with the announcement that the venue will host the 2027 ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup – a fitting tribute to a venue that continues to inspire elite athletes and local communities alike. More than 700,000 people have enjoyed paddlesport activities on site over the past 15 years, while over 7,500 community programmes have supported health and wellbeing across the region. The venue has also served as a launchpad for local talent, with athletes who had never held a paddle going on to win medals on the international stage. As Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, put it: “Legacy does not stand still – we are already looking forward to ensure it remains at the forefront of paddlesports and relevant for the next generation.” A living proof that Olympic legacy, when nurtured, keeps delivering for sport, for communities, and for generations to come. To learn more, read the fact sheet here.