Olympia Events: London’s Historic Exhibition and Event Venue
Historic London venue blending Victorian grandeur with modern events, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and conferences in West Kensington.
Olympia Events, located on Hammersmith Road in West Kensington, London, is a renowned exhibition, conference, and event centre with a rich history dating back to 1886. Featuring iconic halls such as the Grand Hall and Pillar Hall, Olympia hosts a diverse range of international trade shows, concerts, sporting events, and cultural exhibitions. Its blend of historic architecture and modern facilities makes it a premier destination for business and entertainment in London.
A brief summary to Olympia Events
- Hammersmith Rd, London, W14 8UX, GB
- +442073851200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Plan your visit around major events to experience the venue’s full atmosphere and diverse offerings.
- Use public transport via Kensington (Olympia) Station for the most convenient access.
- Pre-book parking in the Olympia Car Park to secure a spot and avoid high on-site fees.
- Explore nearby West Kensington and Barons Court areas for dining and accommodation options.
- Check the venue’s official calendar for special exhibitions and shows during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Arrive via Kensington (Olympia) Station served by London Overground and Southern Rail, with frequent connections from central London; journey times typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, with step-free access available.
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Underground
Use West Kensington or Barons Court Underground stations on the District Line, both within a 10-15 minute walk; services run regularly but note some stations have limited step-free access.
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Car
Drive to Olympia with parking available at the Olympia Car Park for approximately £15 per day; expect 25-40 minutes travel from Heathrow Airport depending on traffic; congestion charge applies in central London.
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Bus
Several TfL bus routes serve Hammersmith Road near Olympia, including routes 9, 27, 391, and 228; buses run frequently with journey times varying by origin, offering a convenient alternative to rail.
Olympia Events location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Olympia Events
A Storied Venue with Architectural Heritage
Olympia Events, also known as Olympia London or the Olympia Exhibition Centre, stands as one of London’s most iconic event spaces. Established in 1886, it was originally designed to host large-scale exhibitions and agricultural shows. The venue’s architecture includes the Grand Hall and Pillar Hall, both completed in 1885 in an elegant Italianate style, featuring intricate ironwork roofs crafted by Handyside of Derby. Subsequent additions include Olympia National (1923) and Olympia Central (1929), the latter known for its distinctive Olympia signage facing Hammersmith Road. These historic halls combine to offer a unique blend of Victorian grandeur and early 20th-century design, preserving a rich cultural legacy within a bustling urban setting.A Hub for Diverse International Events
Olympia has long been a magnet for a wide variety of events, ranging from international trade fairs and consumer exhibitions to concerts, sporting competitions, and conferences. Over its nearly 140-year history, it has hosted landmark events such as the International Motor Exhibition, the Doctor Who Experience, and major music performances. Today, Olympia continues to attract a broad spectrum of events including art fairs, fitness challenges, and immersive exhibitions like the Titanic Exhibition London. Its flexible spaces accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale trade shows, making it a vital centre for business networking and cultural exchange.Modern Transformation and Facilities
While retaining its historic character, Olympia is undergoing a significant transformation to establish itself as a world-leading entertainment and cultural destination. This ambitious redevelopment includes new state-of-the-art music venues, theatres, restaurants, and office spaces, aiming to blend heritage with modern innovation. The venue offers approximately 45,000 square meters of exhibition space, supported by modern infrastructure and adaptable rooms to suit various event requirements. Facilities include two advanced auditoriums ideal for presentations and award ceremonies, alongside event-specific amenities such as parking and shuttle services.Accessibility and Location Advantages
Strategically situated in West Kensington, Olympia benefits from excellent transport connections. It is adjacent to Kensington (Olympia) Station, served by London Overground and Southern Rail, with nearby access to West Kensington and Barons Court Underground stations. The venue is also approximately 25 minutes by car from Heathrow Airport, making it highly accessible for international visitors. Parking is available on-site for a fee, and the surrounding area offers a range of accommodation options, enhancing convenience for attendees.Vibrant Atmosphere and Cultural Significance
Olympia’s atmosphere is shaped by its historic architecture and the dynamic events it hosts. Visitors experience a blend of Victorian elegance and contemporary vibrancy, with the venue often transformed to suit the theme of each event—from sparkling Christmas festivities at Winter Funland to high-energy fitness weeks. The venue’s cultural importance is further highlighted by commissioned artworks celebrating its legacy and its role as a London landmark for exhibitions and entertainment.Community and Future Outlook
Owned by Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance, Olympia is backed by substantial private investment aimed at securing its future as a global centre for arts, entertainment, and business. This vision includes integrating exclusive partnerships, such as with British Airways, to enhance visitor experiences. As Olympia evolves, it remains a cornerstone of London’s event landscape, balancing historic prestige with cutting-edge developments to continue attracting world-class events and audiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Monument
0.5 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Mr Mathias Winkler
1.2 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Hammersmith Bridge
1.5 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Kensington War Memorial
1.5 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.6 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
George Orwell Plaque
1.9 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.9 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
1.9 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
The Castle
2.3 km
Experience the charm of a traditional British pub at The Castle on Portobello Road, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
2.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of All Saints' Church, a must-visit Anglican church and cultural hub in Notting Hill, London.
Portobello Road Market
2.3 km
Discover London’s vibrant Portobello Road Market, a historic treasure trove of antiques, vintage fashion, and street food in the heart of Notting Hill.
Queen's Tower
2.4 km
A towering neo-Renaissance landmark in South Kensington, the Queen's Tower stands as the historic heart of Imperial College London and a symbol of Victorian ambition.
The Albert Memorial
2.4 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens honoring Prince Albert’s legacy and Victorian achievement.
The Tabernacle
2.4 km
Discover The Tabernacle in Notting Hill, a vibrant community center and performing arts venue showcasing London's rich cultural tapestry.
Sussex Mansions
2.4 km
Discover the elegance of Sussex Mansions in South Kensington, a charming apartment building near London's best attractions and cultural hotspots.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leighton House
0.6 km
Explore the exquisite Victorian studio-home of Frederic Leighton, where art, architecture, and Orientalist design create a timeless cultural treasure.
The Tower House
0.7 km
Discover The Tower House, William Burges’ iconic Victorian Gothic Revival home, a masterpiece of architectural artistry and rich symbolism in London.
the Design Museum
0.8 km
Explore the cutting-edge world of design in London’s iconic museum, where creativity meets culture and innovation shapes everyday life.
Kyoto Garden
0.8 km
A tranquil Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park, gifted by Kyoto to celebrate cultural friendship and seasonal beauty.
Holland Park
0.9 km
Discover Holland Park’s serene gardens, historic charm, and vibrant recreational spaces in the heart of Kensington, London.
Sambourne House
1.1 km
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
DNA VR
1.1 km
Dive into thrilling virtual worlds at DNA VR Hammersmith, London's cutting-edge VR arcade and escape room venue for all ages and groups.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
1.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
Earl’s Court Police Box
1.3 km
Discover London’s last classic blue police box, a nostalgic landmark blending history, pop culture, and urban policing heritage at Earl’s Court.
Westfield London
1.4 km
Westfield London: A dynamic shopping and lifestyle hub blending luxury, entertainment, and festive charm in the heart of Shepherd's Bush.
KidZania London
1.5 km
Explore careers and creativity at KidZania London, an interactive children's amusement centre in the heart of Westfield London Shopping Centre.
Kensington High St
1.5 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Clarendon Cross
1.6 km
Discover Clarendon Cross, a quaint and vibrant village-like square in Notting Hill, blending historic charm with eclectic boutiques and a warm community spirit.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
1.6 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
The Gate Picturehouse
1.7 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Il Portico
0.8 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.4 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.5 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
1.6 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Zuaya London
1.6 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.7 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The Shed
1.8 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.9 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
1.9 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
2.1 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Osteria Napoletana
2.2 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
0.7 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
0.8 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
0.8 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.0 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
The London Heritage
1.5 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Jigsaw
1.5 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Good
1.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.5 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Urban Outfitters
1.6 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Notting hill store
1.7 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
1.8 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.8 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.9 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.9 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.9 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Curtains Up
0.8 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
Prince of Wales
1.5 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.5 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.5 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Builders Arms
1.6 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
AMARO BAR - London
1.7 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.7 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.8 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
Stables Bar
1.8 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
The Sun In Splendour
1.9 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.9 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Naked & Famous Bar
2.0 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
2.0 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
2.1 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ricco London
0.4 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.8 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Lost In Disco
1.8 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
The Duke of Wellington
2.1 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Metric
2.3 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
B London
2.3 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
The Globe
2.4 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.4 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Subteranian
2.7 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
3.0 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Le Fez
4.0 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
The Clapham Grand
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
4.9 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
4.9 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
