{{cta(‘86780b33-5e6e-4b78-ad3b-edb84785d4a0’)}}Can you believe the next Olympics is already here? It seems like the hype of the London 2012 Games was only yesterday, but it’s time again for our nation’s team to rise to the challenge and win all the shiny gold medals they can get! Controversies are still in the air as to whether holding the games in the developing city, Rio de Janeiro was a good idea. However, there is hope that this year’s event will potentially bring a similar legacy to the London 2012 Olympics. Unlike poor Athens that unfortunately could not maintain their sport venues from 2004, London has continued to bring all kinds of benefits to the East part of the city. So what’s become of the Olympic venues that once was home to sportsmen of the world? The good news is that all 560 acres of the Olympic Park is still inviting in the millions of visitors with all the venues still playing a vital role in the development of the area, whilst bringing in some positive economic effects.
The Olympic Stadium
After celebrating the memorable moments of Usain Bolt soaring through the 100-metre race and Jessica Ennis smashing the heptathlon, the Olympic Stadium is now undergoing major reconstruction ready for more historic memories. Soon to be the home ground of the West Ham United football team and prepared to seat a whopping 54,000 people, the stadium had a final price tag of £702 million! This may seem like a ridiculous amount of money, but with plenty of community sports and cultural events (not to mention Hammers matches) coming up, this iconic venue is sure not to be left gathering dust any time soon. Ever wondered what was going to happen to that funky looking fixture overlooking the stadium? The structure was unfortunately underperforming, with not enough people wanting to trek to the top, but then some architectural genius had a brilliant idea. The coiling red sculpture, ArcelorMittal Orbit has opened up its new feature, a giant slide! Would you dare to throw yourself down 376 feet?
The Aquatics Centre
Want to swim in the pool of champions? Whatever your level of skill, from beginners to Olympic swimmers, the London Aquatics Centre is currently offering a variety of activity programmes to the public and there’s something for everyone! Swimming lessons, family fun sessions and even diving, you can guarantee top-quality facilities that even Olympic favourite, Tom Daley calls his training ground! What’s more, prices are the same as your local swimming pool and keep an eye out for world class events to be hosted at the venue, you could be spectating in one of the 2,500 seats.
The Copper Box Arena
From hosting handball and other events at the 2012 games, the Copper Box Arena quickly re-opened to start welcoming the public and local clubs to participate in an array of different sports. Known as ‘the box that rocks’, the indoor venue offers the best opportunity to get in shape. Head to the gym, sweat out in some group exercise classes or even get involved in competitive sports, such as basketball, gymnastics, badminton and more! Of course, there’s more to this box that rocks. Not only is it sports and fitness central, the 7,500 seating capacity means the venue is the hotspot for events, from heavyweight boxing to pop concerts.
Summer in the Park
Did you know the BeachEast at the Park is the UK’s largest urban beach? Head to Britain’s version of Copacabana this Summer where beach bars, funfair rides and kid’s pools are waiting for you to enjoy, without having to leave London! Who needs Rio? Soak up the sizzling atmosphere right here in the city. Next month, join in for free at the National Paralympic Day where you can try out some exciting para-sports and enjoy an extraordinary line-up of arts entertainment. Events taking place include cycling, table tennis, judo and a long list of more sports to get involved in, everyone is welcome! Get into the Olympic spirit this Summer and support Team GB as they go for gold.
To celebrate Rio now in full swing, we’re launching a competition! Simply share with us via the link below your best memory of the London 2012 Olympic Games to be in for a chance of winning an overnight stay! Best of luck.
