Olympics 2012
The 2012 Summer Olympic Games will be held in London for around 6 weeks from 27th July to 12th August and the Paralympic Games from 29th August to 9th September, in various stadiums and arenas across the city. The tickets for the 26 sports broken down into 39 different disciplines have caused much controversy being allocated by random ballot, leaving many people without tickets and disappointed. Those with tickets however are in for a sporting spectacular, particularly those lucky enough to get tickets for the opening ceremony which is sure to be impressive.
If you are lucky enough to be attending one of the Olympic events, chances are you will have some time to kill whilst staying in London; here are some suggestions on how to fill your time in our great capital when not watching the games.
The Olympic Journey – The Story of the Games
If you can’t get enough of the Olympics, an exhibition usually situated in Lausanne, Switzerland telling the story from the Olympics during their ancient beginnings to the modern day games we see today will be at the Royal Opera House, London for the duration of the games. The exhibition featuring artefacts, graphics, film and audio elements will tell the tales of past great Olympians in the ‘Hall of Champions’ and what made them such world class athletes of their time, it also includes displays of medals throughout the ages and examples of the famous Olympic torches. A must see for any fans of the games who are in London during the summer of 2012.
Visit Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s favourite tourist attractions and this should be no exception during the Olympic Games. Not only is Hyde Park one of the most beautiful parks in the UK it will also play host to the Triathlon during the games when thousands of spectators will line the route to watch the races for free. Whilst at Hyde Park, visit Speakers Corner, where for hundreds of years people have come to speak their views to the London public and exercise their right to free speech, also Hyde Park is home to the Diana Fountain, a memorial to Princess Diana where visitors can enjoy some quiet reflection amid the hustle and bustle of the city.
Horse Guards Parade
Horse Guards Parade, the large parade area situated just off Whitehall and close to 10 Downing Street where the Queens bodyguards perform the annual Trooping the Colour will have its own role to play in the Olympic Games. The large parade ground will host the Beach Volley Ball events, so once you have enjoyed watching the games you can take in the nearby sights of Buckingham Palace and Downing Street. If you are lucky enough to be around from 11th June to 16th June head down to Horse Guards Parade for the Trooping the Colour, the Queens annual birthday ceremony which is presented by the Queens bodyguards.
However you choose to spend your time in London during the summer of 2012 you are sure to have a great time, enjoy the games and all the great extra attractions, food and drink venues and fun shows that will be on during this exciting time for sport in the UK.
This post was written by Charlotte McCulloch of MoneySupermarket.com, should you need travel insurance for your trip to London for the Olympic Games use their price comparison tool to find cheap deals from dozens of travel insurance providers.