New year, new you? Why not try an off-kilter activity in 2026, one you usually wouldn’t consider? Or even know about? No, not go-karting or bowling, Go Ape or Laser Quest. These are even quirkier.
We’re not advising you quit the pub or stop playing golf. But if you want to mix it up, here’s where to start. Just be prepared to get wet.
White water rafting
Kick things off with a spot of white water rafting at Lee Valley leisure centre. It’s the same stretch used for the Olympics in 2012, a lively, intense course perfect for adventurous groups in need of a thrill. The experience isn’t cheap at £450 per raft, but they seat up to nine people so the cost can be shared.
Lee Valley Ice Centre, Lea Bridge Road, E10 7QL, better.org.uk
Circus acts
Not really. But the National Circus hosts regular courses for handy types, from juggling to taking on the trapeze. There are numerous sessions ranging from beginner to expert. To begin, why not explore the world of equilibristics with a £35 taster class. We suspect you’ll have mastered the tightwire in no time and will be proficient on a unicycle by Christmas next year.
Coronet Street, N1 6HD nationalcircus.org.uk
Sausage fest
Do you know how to handle meat? Food specialists Smoke & Cure hosts regular classes in sausage making, with expert butchers on-hand to show Londoners how to craft fine pork cylinders. The smoke school underwent a refurbishment this year and so workshops are bigger than ever, with more in-depth teaching and longer classes. From £140 per session, with lunch.
Unit 7, Spa Business Park, Dockley Road, SE16 3FJ, londonsmokeandcure.co.uk
