Canolfan Tryweryn near Bala marks 40 years as the UK's original white water rafting venue

On the banks of the Afon Tryweryn near Bala, Canolfan Tryweryn, the National White Water Centre, has been celebrating its 40th birthday. Launched in 1985, the centre at Frongoch says it was the UK's first white water rafting venue.

It now welcomes up to 40,000 visitors a year. A not-for-profit organisation, it employs a team of eight full-time staff and more than 40 freelancers, and it has grown to include a café, modern changing facilities, a kayak shop, a children's play area and the Tryweryn Trail riverside walk.

The river has serious pedigree. It hosted the 1981 Wildwater Canoeing World Championships, and the water level is enhanced by releases from the dam upstream. "The water we raft in is essentially drinking water released straight out of the dam," said Bledd of the centre.

Rafting, canoeing, canyoning and kayaking are on offer for anyone aged 12 and above, with a gentler family session for ten-year-olds on a calmer section of the river. "Our only non-negotiable for all rafters is that they can swim," Bledd said.

The centre's reputation has drawn what it calls an incredible community of paddlers from across the UK and beyond, who return year after year. It has also been praised for its inclusivity, with awards from the North Wales Deaf Association, a place in Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel Guide, and a contribution to developing a postural support system for people who need help with seated balance.

Adventures range from the Ultimate Rafting trip to the Rapid Session, Rafting Safari, a canyoning adventure and the Orca Extreme. The centre also offers Paddle UK courses, raft guide training, rescue courses and events including the Tryweryn Festival, slalom competitions and raft races.

"We've been here for the last 40 years, and we look forward to many years to come, going from strength to strength," said Bledd.

The centre promises a wild day out that a rainy day cannot spoil, and it also offers a kayak shuttle for paddlers, a dog-friendly site and ShePaddles white water sessions. Check river levels and book activities at nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk or call 01678 521083.