Olympia - a major exhibition complex in West Kensington - stands on the site of a former vineyard, and it predates its partner, Earls Court, by more than fifty years. Olympia's Grand Hall opened its doors on Boxing Day 1886 with a performance by the Paris Hippodrome Circus. This led to a tradition of circus at Olympia, with visits from famous troupes such as Barnum & Bailey and, later, Bertram Mills, which staged shows into the 1960s. From the outset, Olympia matched its entertainment spectaculars with important exhibitions: in 1905, the first big international motor show was presented there. The venue became so successful that adjoining buildings were added, the National Hall in 1923 and the Empire Hall (now Olympia 2) six years later. Today, Olympia is a world-class exhibition centre staging something like 170 conferences and events every year, from the London International Horse Show and the BBC's Good Food Show to musical jumble sales and exhibitions of erotica. The owners are currently planning to build a gym and health club in the complex, with further possibilities for a new hotel, restaurant and offices. As a bonus, Olympia is close to the excellent shopping opportunities of Kensington High Street.
Restaurant
School
Solicitor
Davis Hanson
Kean Etienne
Mark & Co
Taxi
Shops
Places to Stay near Olympia
Russell Court Hotel (0.09 miles)
Holland Court Hotel (0.11 miles)
This beautiful 3-star hotel offers all the facilities the discerning business traveller or tourist would require, with Earls Court and Olympia Exhibition Centres close by.
Having been established for the last 30 years, the Holland Court ... More | visit website
Hilton London Olympia (0.12 miles)
The Hilton London Olympia is located on one of London's most famous and exclusive shopping streets in the fashionable district of Kensington. The 405 newly refurbished rooms offer excellent facilities and a high level of ... More | visit website
The Hand and Flower (0.14 miles)
The Hand and Flower in Hammersmith is a large Victorian pub that has recently been refurbished to gracefully combine a contemporary style with the traditional features you would expect from a pub that is over ... More
Access Kensington Olympia (0.19 miles)
Centaur Hotel (0.25 miles)
Extending you with a warm welcomeWe are devoting our time and energy in ensuring that your stay in London is both comfortable and enjoyable. We take care and pride in ... More
Westfield Hotel (0.28 miles)
This popular hotel is situated in central London, offering spacious and elegant accommodation with traditional decor.
Fully air-conditioned throughout, all guest rooms have private en suite facilities. The Hotel is located on the Holland Road in ... More
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Avonmore Guest Accommodation (0.30 miles)
Privately owned and run hotel, a winner of a national Award for the best private Hotel in London organised by 'AA'. Within easy walking distance from West Kensington Underground Station and main bus routes. The Avonmore ... More | visit website
Hotel Olympia Rooms (0.33 miles)
K West (0.43 miles)
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