There is never a better time to see London in its full swing, than during the Olympic and Paralympic games, which kick off on 27 July 2012, with a fantastic Opening Ceremony, welcoming the world’s greatest Olympic athletes and millions of visitors to Great Britain’s vibrant and unique capital. More and more Olympic venues are being spread every day not only around London, but also in several other parts of Britain, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the country’s rich culture and history, the wealth of attractions and restaurant scene along with the varied entertainment it has to offer. Keep in mind, visiting the Olympics of 2012 in London will be a once in a lifetime experience!
In today’s post Travelvivi comes with the best places visitors can dine and have a comfortable stay while enjoying Olympics 2012 in London. With millions of tourists descending on the capital for the London Olympics, it truly pays to be prepared when it comes to eating and staying near the Games’ key venues. So, if you are lucky enough to have a ticket to the striking 2012 Olympic Games this summer, be sure to find plenty of options where to eat and stay near key Olympic venues in London.
Venue: Olympic Park
A 1.5-square-mile stretch of land in East London, the awe-inspiring Olympic Park that has the Olympic Stadium, the aquatic center, the basketball arena, the water polo arena and a range of other venues within it, will host a number of key events during the Games. Within five hundred meters of Olympic Park, one can find 5 restaurants and 5 pubs and bars, all with great offerings to cater the needs of both luxury and budget visitors.
Where to Eat
Some 7 minutes’ walk from London 2012 Olympic Park, visitors can find the in-house H. Forman & Son restaurant at Forman’s Fish Island, a nice venue to try great British ingredients and a patriotic wine list. Housed in a pink, salmon-shaped building, this family run business, headed by Lance Forman since 1994, continues to apply the same methods used by his great grandfather a hundred years ago. One the food supply side of things, smoked salmon is the best seller with 20 types of cured salmon.
Another fine getaway at 147 The Street, Westfield Stratford City, London is Jamie’s Italian under a celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who sticks to the tried-and-tested formula of rustic, simple Italian food at fair prices, served in a truly authentic atmosphere in no longer than 10 minutes. Those looking for something a bit more exotic, can try Green Papaya, featuring delicious Vietnamese Cuisine, as well as Tas Firin, serving Turkish Cuisine.
Where to Stay
Though a bit farther from the bustling city center, London’s East End is a growing neighborhood with a vast number of comfortable lodging, ideal for both budget-to-luxury traveler. Two-star hotel seekers will find at least three fine options, including The Park Tavern Hotel, City Stay Hotel, and Ibis London Stratford, while those looking for a bit luxurious setting will appreciate the three-star Holiday Inn Express London Stratford. As to four- and five-star hotels near the Olympic Park, the 4-star Staybridge Suites London Stratford City, Holiday Inn London Stratford City and the 5-star Town Hall Hotel & Apartments are simply superb.
Venue: Wembley Stadium
One of the most outstanding stadia in the world less than ten miles from the city center in the Northwest London, Wembley is another key Olympic venue, where visitors will have some of the most memorable sporting moments in history. It is largest of the six venues hosting the London 2012 Olympic Football tournament and the second largest of all London 2012 venues, after the new Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Those who have the luck to be present at the tournament and see the world’s best battle will surely be interested in eating and staying options around the stadium. Read on to get acquainted with them.
Where to Eat
Due to its immigrant community, Wembley neighborhood is a melting pot of culinary options. A family-friendly dining option in and around Wembley Stadium, the stunning Arena Restaurant is one of the best dining venues with an open and relaxed chic Mediterranean island look, where visitors can try Greek cuisine at very reasonable prices. The service is top notching with knowledge, experience, and above all a warm, friendly smile. For Portuguese food, visitors can check out Nando’s, offering quality food, quick service and excellent value for money. Some 25 minutes’ walk from Wembley Stadium one can find Ace Café London that runs as a regular restaurant during the day, while at night it features live music on a couple of Saturdays every month and 2 am late license. Pizza on the Wood is a great place to sample some delicious representatives of Italian cuisine, such as different sorts of pizza, pasta, lasagne and other traditional meals. Do not miss out also Mesopotamia, best-known for its Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as Karahi King and Mumbai Junction, both perfect options for trying Indian food.
Where to Stay
Being close to the city center, visitors can plan their stay right in the heart of London, or else closer to Wembley Arena. A post or two will surely not be enough to introduce all the city center hotels, but for those looking to stay nearby here are a few options. Wembley Plaza, for example, is a nice choice for guests wishing to explore the best of London and see a game at the stadium. A Hilton property this stunning hotel has a fully-equipped gym, an elegantly-designed swimming pool, a stylish bat and a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Venue: All England Club
Conveniently located in the southern suburb of Wimbledon, the All England Club is one of tennis’s most hallowed grounds, where Olympic tennis returns for first time in 104 years at London Games.
Where to Eat
A quiet neighborhood, which biggest claim to fame is its annual tennis tournament, Wimbledon comes with plentiful dining options, best suited for any taste and budget. Our pick of the best restaurants are certainly worth sample while enjoying 2012 Olympic Games, just make sure to book ahead during the busy season. Check out the Light House, the best place to eat before, during or after Wimbledon Tennis; Watermill Restaurant and Grill, offering a la carte or buffet style menu; Bar 191, a stylish bar and restaurant with a wide assortment of drinks, including an extensive wine list to accompany its Spanish tapas menu; La Taverna, serving Italian food lovers; and Fox and Grapes, which is a highly recommended classic English pub with a sizable menu of English standards.
Where to Stay
Patrons of the All England Club can again play their stay in the heart of Britain’s capital, where there is no shortage of one-to-five-star options. And those who want to stay closer to the tennis center can consider the highly recommended Cannizaro House, found just west of the club. The team at this four star getaway in Wimbledon is always eager to please and make your stay a truly pleasant and memorable experience. Moreover, the hotel has its own chic restaurant, where you can have a fine dinner, sampling organic, seasonal and locally sourced products.
