Earls Court Guide 2012

Earls Court is sure to outshine the rest of London during the Olympic and Paralympic Games as it plays host to one of the most popular sports, volleyball. It is an impressive building that already has a history with the Games and when lit up, the art deco building is nothing less than breath taking. This is a fantastic place to watch an Olympic Sport, you’re sure to walk away with memorable anecdotes, tales of victories and legendary stories to share with family and friends.

Events taking place at Earls Court

Earl’s Court during the 2012 London Olympic Games will be hosting the volleyball competition, taking place between 28^th July and 12^th August.

Venue Address

Earls Court

Warwick Rd,

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea,

SW5 9TA

Telephone Number: 020 7370 8539

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk)

The recommended London Underground stations for this venue are Earl’s Court (Central, District and Piccadilly Lines) and West Brompton (District Line), which is located across the road from Earls Exhibition Centre and Earls Court Two. However, if you will be travelling using the Overground, use the West London Line services to West Brompton station. Again this station is located across the road from the venue. London has an extensive bus network and to get to the Earls Court area you will need to jump onto the 74, 430, 190, C1, C3 or 328.

For any information regarding changes to routes or stops during the Games, check the Transport for London website.

About Earl’s Court

Earls Court has once again been chosen to host part of the London Olympic Games, hosting the Volleyball competition. In 1948 Earls Court was chosen to host the Olympic Boxing, Weightlifting, Gymnastics and  Wrestling and now 288 athletes will enter the doors to compete for the Volleyball gold medal. The action begins on 28^th July and will run through until 12^th August, accommodating 15,000 spectators. Earls Court was chosen as the perfect choice of venue for the Volleyball events by the International Volleyball Federation and with fantastic transport links and a history with the Games, it is the ideal location.

Since its inception in 1397, Earls Court has played host to hundreds of events from exhibitions and conferences to live music and sporting events. The venue attracts people from around the world and now Earls Court will once again be playing host to an Olympic sport.

The Earls Court exhibition centre opened its doors welcoming spectators to the Chocolate and Confectionery Exhibition. Then in 1991, the centre was expanded into Earls Court two, which today still boasts Europe’s biggest unsupported roof span.

The venue has also entertained spectators with shows performed by the likes of Madonna, Pink Floyd, Iron Maiden, George Michael, Elton John, Kylie, Rod Stewart, Queen and the Rolling Stones.

Over the years, the venues have welcomed visitors to shows such as the London Boat Show, the British Motor Show, the Ideal Home Show and Graduate Fashion Week. The BRIT Awards, the International Horse Show and some of the country’s largest companies have also held conferences, training sessions and massive staff parties at Earls Court, the Brewery and Olympia.

Now Earls Court will be playing a valuable part in the London 2012 Olympics, selected as the ideal venue to host the Olympic Volleyball competition. According to Lord Coe, Chairman of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, Earls Court was chosen for its west London location and excellent transport links.

Accommodation

If you’re lucky enough to have tickets to see the volleyball at Earls Court you’re sure to want to make your stay in the capital as spectacular as possible. At Refresh Accommodation we have some Olympic worthy apartments that are available in a range of sizes from studio apartments to four bedroom accommodations, and all at fantastic prices. Below you will find a list of our recommended apartments that are situated close to Earls Court.

Think Earls Court, Earls Court (nearest station: Earls Court)

High Street Kensington Apartments, High street Kensington (nearest underground: High Street Kensington)

Astons Apartments, South Kensington (nearest underground: Gloucester Road)

SO-Sienna, Hammersmith (nearest underground: Hammersmith)

What else is in the area?

There is much to do and see in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; why not visit the Leighton House Museum or the Linely Sambourne House? You will be amazed as you walked through the area, boasting historical and architectural significance and beautifully designed buildings that feature intricate and stunning frames and decorative hallways.

If architecture isn’t what you’re searching for, the Chelsea Physic Garden might tickle your fancy; the gardens are extraordinary and throughout the year it hosts many exhibitions. Holland Park can also be found within the borough and offers scenic green views, a rarity in such a vast city.

Kensington High Street runs straight through the borough and offers fashion followers with a shopping Mecca. Whether you’re searching for designer, vintage or high street treats, you’re sure to find it here. 

Excel London Guide 2012

There is no better time to visit London than around the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Royal Victoria Dock is sure to be buzzing with excitement and celebrations as athletes and spectators come together to share their victories.  With seven Olympic and six Paralympic events to watch, the ExCeL London venue is going to breathe new life into the Lower Lea Valley and East London, filled with competitive attitudes and sporting stories.

Events taking place at the ExCeL London

ExCeL London has five arenas and will host a total of 143 sessions across a range of Olympic and Paralympic sports including:

• Boxing
• Fencing
• Judo
• Table Tennis
• Taekwondo
• Weightlifting
• Wrestling
• Boccia
• Paralympic Table Tennis
• Paralympic Judo
• Paralympic Powerlifting
• Sitting Volleyball
• Wheelchair Fencing

Venue Address

ExCeL London
One Western Gateway
Royal Victoria Dock
London
E16 1XL

Telephone Number: 020 7069 5000

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk)

The Royal Victoria Dock is serviced by some of the greatest DLR transport links. To get to ExCeL London jump off at the Royal Victoria Station, Custom House Station or Prince Regent Station. However, if you wish to use the London Underground you want to make your way to Canning Town (Jubilee Line). There are also some fantastic bus services that will take you to ExCeL London, catch the number 241, 325, 678 or 474 to watch the games, just in the nick of time.

City Airport is also situated close by, perfect for those coming to watch the games from overseas. 

About the ExCel

ExCeL London is an immensely successful and poplar venue for many exhibitions, home to London’s first International Convention Centre (ICC) and is now set to become a major venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. This extraordinary event has offered ExCeL London to host seven Olympic competitions and six Paralympic events, which will see a total of 80 Olympic and 74 Paralympic medals.

ExCeL London is the capital's largest and most successful exhibition and conference centre, hosting over 3,500 events and welcoming over 10 million visitors since its inception in 2000. It has played host to a wide variety of conferences, sporting and cultural events, motivational events, roadshows and trade events including Salon International, The London International Wine and Spirits Fair and Grand Designs Live. However, in the summer of 2012, ExCeL London will be playing its part to accommodate the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Accommodation

With ExCeL London situated on the scenic waterfront of the Royal Victoria Dock you can imagine the views from a Refresh Accommodation apartment. There are many apartments to choose from that range in size and price, ensuring every party and wallet is catered to. Whether you’re looking for the perfect apartment fit for a family of four or for an intimate party, you’re sure to find the right accommodation to suit your needs.

Canary South  Marlin, Canary Wharf (nearest underground: Canary Wharf, South Quay)

City Docklands, Docklands (nearest underground: Limehouse DLR)

Grainstore – Diverse Apartments, Docklands (nearest underground: Custom House (DLR))

Stratford Bellhaven, Docklands (nearest underground: Stratford)

Fraser Place Canary Wharf, Canary Wharf (nearest underground: Canary Wharf)

What else is in the area?

From the Royal Victoria Dock you will see the towering office blocks of the infamous Canary Wharf, the dome of the O2 Arena and people participating in sailing and canoeing activities. There are many restaurants and bars to choose from when visiting or staying in the area including the Docklands Bar and Grill Restaurant and the 07 Zero Sette Italian Bar and Restaurant.  Canary Wharf is not only a place for business, it is also a shopping hub, an eatery haven and a popular arts and entertainment area. 

X Factor - The Live Tour 2012

A comprehensive guide on the X Factor Live Tour 2012 that takes place at Wembley Arena during 3^rd and 4^th March 2012 and at the O2 Arena between 31^st March and 1^st April.

Last year’s X Factor was nothing short of incredible, with Frankie Cocozza being kicked off the show, the rivalry between X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing hotting up and of course, Little Mix’s victory as they become the first ever girl band to win the show. The show boasted big stages, awe-inspiring productions, powerful voices and more gossip than ever before. Bearing all of this in mind, we’re sure the X Factor Live Tour will not disappoint.

The live tour is a blessing for all X Factor fans as they’re given the opportunity to see their favourite acts perform on stage once more. Misha B, Kitty Brucknell, Janet Devlin, Marcus Collins, Amelia Lily (who controversially replaced Frankie), Johnny Robinson, Little Mix, The Risk and Craig Colton will be entertaining you, dressed in flamboyant costumes and performing your favourite songs. This is one event you can’t afford to miss. 

Date and Tickets

3^rd March at 7.30pm at Wembley Arena

4^th March at 2.30pm at Wembley Arena

31^st March at 2.30pm and 7.30pm at O2 Arena

1^st April at 2.30pm at O2 Arena

You can book your X Factor 2012 tickets at Ticket Line, priced from £37

O2 Arena Address

The O2 Arena,

Peninsula Square,

London,

SE10 0DX

020 8463 2000

Wembley Arena Address

Arena Square,

London,

SW1P 3BU

020 8902 8833

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/)

Bring some soul to the way you travel to the O2 Arena and Wembley Arena using some of London’s finest public transport. Below you will find multiple ways of getting to the arenas in style.

Overground

O2 Arena

Once you have arrived at Charlton station take the first left out of the station and catch an approximately 10 minute ride on a 486, 472 or N472 bus to North Greenwich.

Wembley Arena

The best way to get to the Wembley Arena via railway is to use Chiltern Railways from London Marylebone.

Underground

O2 Arena

North Greenwich (Jubilee Line) will be your destination when rocking your way across London. It is only a short distance away from the Arena, approximately 200m. Other tube stations you can use include:

Canary Wharf (Jubilee Line) in 5 minutes
London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines)  or Stratford (Jubilee and Central Lines)  in 10 minutes
Waterloo (Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines) in 15 minutes
Bond Street (Jubilee and Central Lines) in 20 minutes

Wembley Arena

The closest tube station to jump off at is Wembley Park (Metropolitan and Jubilee Lines). Exit using the lift or stairs and pass under the tunnel onto Olympic Way, turning right as soon as you get to the Wembley Stadium.

Buses

O2 Arena

Make your way to key bus destinations Stratford, Charlton, Greenwich, Lewisham, Woolwich, Eltham, North Kent or Central London.

Wembley Arena

Use your chest voice to catch the attention of the 79, 83, 92, 182 and 224 buses, which all regularly run through the Wembley Arena area.

If you would like any more information about the bus routes or any other London public transport visit the TfL website.

Nearby Bars and Restaurants

After singing- a-long to your favourite songs, you’re sure to have made room for some scrumptious food and refreshing drinks. There is a great range of eateries and bars to choose from, many of which are inside the O2 Arena and Wembley Arena. Below you will find our favourites that are situated in and around the Arenas. 

• Nando’s Greenwich Peninsula(Odeon Cinema Complex, Bugsby's Way, Greenwich, SE10 0QJ)

Cuisine: Portuguese flame-grilled chicken

Telephone Number: (020) 8293 3025

• Zizzi (Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX)

Cuisine: Italian

Telephone Number:  (020) 8858 9097

• Penisula Chinese Restaurant (Holiday Inn Express, 85 Bugsby's Way, Greenwich, SE10 0GD)

Cuisine: Chinese

Telephone Number: (020) 8269 1638

• American Sports Bar & Grill (Ground Floor, The O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX)

Type: Sports Bar

Telephone Number: (020) 83055 360

• Becks Vier Bar and Two Degrees Bar (All floors, The O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX)

Type: Bar, perfect when wanting refreshments during the show

Telephone Number: (020) 8463 2870

• Alisan Restaurant & Bar (Wembley Retail Park, Wembley, HA9 0EG)

Type: Chinese

Telephone Number: (020) 8903 3888

• Wembley Arena Restaurant (Arena Square, London,SW1P 3BU)

Type: A La Carte

Telephone Number: (020) 8782 5609

Accommodation

Get operatic and enjoy the drama Refresh Accommodation’s apartments have to offer. There are many luxurious serviced apartments for you to choose from that are situated close to both the O2 and Wembley Arenas. Whether you’re a small party or a couple looking to rest up after an exhilarating show, you’re sure to find the perfect apartment for you. At Refresh Accommodation all budgets can be catered for, whether you’re searching for a studio, one, two, three or four bedroom apartment.

Sanctum Apartments – Maida Vale/Kilburn, (nearest underground: Kilburn Park)
SO-Quartier, Maida Vale/Kilburn (nearest underground: Kilburn Park)
Maltings Place,  London Bridge (nearest underground: London Bridge)
Think London Bridge, London Bridge (nearest station: London Bridge)
Empire Square, London Bridge (nearest underground: London Bridge, Borough)
Canary South Marlin, Canary Wharf (nearest underground: Canary Wharf, South Quay)
Stratford Bellhaven, Docklands (nearest underground: Stratford)

Olympic Stadium Guide

The Olympic Park Stadium is set to be one of the most picturesque stadiums during the London Olympics and Paralympics 2012, surrounded by waterways and creating its very own island.  It will be the pinnacle point of the biggest sporting event of the year, boasting a capacity of 80,000 and hosting some of the greatest Olympic sports, such as the athletics.

If you’re attending the Olympics this year and will be watching from the Olympic Park Stadium stands you won’t be disappointed with the view. The building has been beautifully designed and once the Games have drawn to a close, it will remain one of the most impressive venues for future sporting events in London.

Events taking place at the Olympic Stadium

There are 208 events scheduled to take place at the Olympic Stadium in 2012 including:

• Opening Ceremonies
• Athletics
• Paralympic Athletics
• Closing Ceremonies

Venue Address

Newham London Borough

London,

Greater London

Telephone Number: 0845 267 2012

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk)

There are many routes to take when finding your way to the Olympic Stadium and due to the anticipated amount of traffic we recommend you plan your journey in advance. Once in London jump onto the tube and exit at Stratford (Central and Jubilee Lines). However, if you’re travelling into London using the overground you will need to get off at Stratford Rail Station or Pudding Mill Lane Rail Station.  When using the buses hop on to number 339 from Stratford City Bus Station to Shadwell Station or number 25 from Oxford Circus to Hainault Street.

About the Olympic Stadium

The Olympic Stadium will be hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games 2012 as well as the athletics and Paralympic athletics. Located in the south of the Olympic Park, you will also find the Olympic Village, Aquatics Centre, Riverbank Arena, Basketball arena, Copper Box and London Velopark.

It took three years to complete the build with construction of the stadium beginning back in May 2008. Sustainability was a key factor when constructing the Stadium and many wanted construction workers to take on the 'reduce, reuse, recycle' approach.

This resulted in the top ring of the Stadium being built using surplus gas pipes and the Stadium’s lower section sits within a bowl in the ground, thus reducing the amount of steel and concrete used. The London 2012 Olympic Stadium was made 75% lighter than other traditional venues, due to the lack of steel resources and also features low-carbon concrete that contains 40% less embodied carbon than usual.

The Olympic Stadium is one of the most important venues in the Olympic Park, bearing the lit Olympic torch and playing host to entertainment that will be enjoyed by millions of viewers worldwide.

Accommodation

The Olympic Games 2012 is going to be one of the biggest sporting events in British history and one we are all eager to attend. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets to either the Olympic or Paralympic athletics or will be turning up for the ceremonies, you’re sure to be looking for a place to stay. At Refresh Accommodation we specialise in providing our customers with top quality apartments that make their trip to London unforgettable. Below you will find a list of the apartments situated close to the Olympic venues, all boasting luxurious comforts.

Think Earls Court, Earls Court (nearest station: Earls Court)

Westminster View, Southbank (nearest underground: Vauxhall)

High Street Kensington Apartments, High street Kensington (nearest underground: High Street Kensington)

1 Harrington Gardens, South Kensington (nearest underground: Gloucester Road)

Astons Apartments, South Kensington (nearest underground: Gloucester Road)

Grand Plaza, Bayswater (nearest underground: Bayswater)

What else is in the area?

If you have some time spare and are looking to fill in the gaps between events, why not visit Victoria Park (360 Victoria Park Road, London, 020 8533 2057) for a gentle walk? However, if shopping is more your forte and your preferred form of exercise (yes, it is exercise) you won’t be disappointed in the Westfield Shopping Centre Stratford (Stratford Shopping Centre, The Broadway, Stratford, E15 1XA, 0208 221 7300).

What could be more perfect than ending your day with an evening show at the Theatre Royal Stratford East (Theatre Square, Newham, E15 1BN, 020 8534 0310)? There is a great array of shows to catch including comedy nights. 

Guide to the London 2012 Olympics

After many years of anticipation, the arrival of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games is almost upon us. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets for an event now is the time to plan around it. Below you will find a list of all the venues hosting the Games, detailing travel information, accommodation and attractions to visit in between events.

Olympic Park Venues

The Olympic Park situated in Stratford is the main venue for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, playing host to many events including the opening and closing ceremonies. The Olympic Park has been designed and purposely built for the occasion featuring a grand total of nine venues that will host ten sporting events including athletics, cycling – track and swimming. 

Cooper Box

Aquatics Centre

Basketball Arena

BMX Track

Eton Manor

Olympic Stadium

Riverbank Arena

Velodrome

Water Polo Arena

London Venues

Across London there are 13 venues that will host the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic events. This year, well known venues such as Wimbledon will be the home of the Olympic Tennis competition, which takes place three weeks after the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament. Hyde Park, the ExCel Centre and many other prestigious London venues are all getting involved in the biggest year for sport in Britain.

Earl’s Court

ExCel

Hyde Park

Greenwich Park

Hampton Court Palace

Horse Guards Parade

Wembley Arena

Wembley Stadium