Special Events in London

2012 Games

Between July 27 and August 12, 2012, London will become the first city to host a third summer Olympic Games with another 12 days for the 2012 Paralympic Games between August 29 and September 9.

This occasion will, however, comfortably dwarf its predecessors of 1908 and 1948. Billions of pounds of public money have been spent, and a great swathe of Stratford and the Lower Lea Valley have been redeveloped, to create the venues needed to stage the events.

The build up has been going on for pretty much the full 7 years since they were awarded to London. Celebrations, parties, and associated events are expected to last the whole summer -- if not the whole year.

Tickets will be sold up until the start of each event -- subject to availability, of course -- and include free public transport for the day. Although most events, including Athletics, Swimming, and Cycling, will take place at the new Olympic Park venues, some of London's existing infrastructure will also be used, including Horse Guards Parade (Beach Volleyball), the North Greenwich Arena (Artistic Gymnastics), Wembley Stadium (Football/soccer), Wimbledon (Tennis, of course), Greenwich Park (Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon), Hampton Court (Cycling Time Trials), and Hyde Park (Triathlon).

Of course, the Marathon event will be free to watch, as well as some of the Athletics and Cycling Road Races. For the latest information, including ticket prices and competition schedule, check www.london2012.com.

The Olympic Park site can be viewed from various surrounding vantage points. One of the best is next to Pudding Mill Lane DLR station, where the View Tube Café, The Greenway, E15 (tel. 07834/275687; www.theviewtube.co.uk) offers views of the main Olympic Stadium, the Aquatics Centre, and the Velodrome.