ExCel, London's largest exhibition and conference center is all set to host Olympic and Paralympic games this London Olympics 2012. Read further to know all about it.

ExCel

Come 2012 Summer Olympic Games and London's largest international exhibition and convention centre - Exhibition Centre London, better known as ExCel will convert itself into a host venue for several Olympic and Paralympic events. Located on the northern quay of London's Royal Victoria Dock, this venue will put up five arenas during the Games that will host no less than 13 sports - seven Olympic and six Paralympic sports. From boxing and fencing to taekwondo and table tennis and from powerlifting and wrestling to weightlifting and wheelchair fencing, this mammoth-sized exhibition center will witness some of world's best players contest for 80 Olympic and 74 Paralympic medals. This venue, situated between Canary Wharf and London City Airport, is owned by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, which was opened in the year 2000. This sprawling 65,000 square meter indoor venue is said to have the largest column free hall in Europe. This venue is also a regular site for hosting leisure as well as trade exhibitions

Fast Facts

Sports Events Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Boccia, Paralympic Table Tennis, Paralympic Judo, Powerlifting, Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Fencing
Location Near London City Airport, on the east of London's Royal Victoria Dock
New or Existing Existing
Permanent or Temporary Permanent
Number of Events 165 Events

ExCel London Olympics 2012
London's largest exhibition and convention center, otherwise famous for hosting events like international association meetings, product launches, banquets, award ceremonies, and more, is going to be the main attraction this London Olympics 2012. During the Games, ExCel's five massive contemporary arenas will host a slew of Olympic events including boxing, judo, fencing, taekwondo, table tennis, weightlifting and wrestling. Situated in a stunning waterfront location, ExCeL London was built by Sir Robert Mc Alpine in the year 2000 and was took on by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company in 2008. For the 2012 Summer Olympics, ExCeL London will be split up into four sports halls with capacities ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 spectators per hall. The

During The Game
ExCel is all set to host a wide range of sports events, nothing less than 143 sessions. During the Games, the centre will be divided into four halls for sporting activities like boxing, judo, taekwondo, weightlifting, table tennis and wrestling.

After The Game
As ExCel is already an existing site, after the Games, it will revert to its day job of hosting exhibitions and conferences.

Transport Facilities
Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is the nearest option to go to ExCel and can be availed from both the Olympic Park and central London. Inside the venue, you will find transport staff and volunteers who will direct you to the five sporting venues. All stations on the DLR network are step-free. The suggested arrival station for disabled spectators is the Custom House and the recommended departure station is Prince Regent. Both stations have step-free access. The venue is also served by local bus services. For disabled people, there will be provision for pre-booking of wheelchair spaces. What's more, park-and-ride services will be available during the Olympic Games. The walking route from the coach and park-and-ride drop-off point to the venue entrance is step-free too.

Some Interesting Facts
  • ExCel has served as the host venue twice priorly.
  • Previously, Excel has provided the base for London triathlon and the venue has witnessed Audley Harrison, Olympic heavyweight champion's match.
With ExCel all set to turn up as the host venue this Olympics and create history for the third time, the excitement just doubles up.