The Olympia Exhibition Centre is situated in West Kensington in the W14 postcode district. It hosts a number of regular annual events including the BBC Good Food Exhibition, the International Horse Show, the Education Technology Show (BETT), and the National Franchise Exhibition, to name but a few.
The hall covers an area of four acres. The Grand Hall measures 450 feet by 250 feet (140 m × 76 m). At the time of its completion, it was the largest building in the UK to be covered by a single span of iron and glass.
Olympia was built as a replacement for the Agricultural Hall, which was constructed in Islington in 1862. The original hall hosted many shows and events, and its success led to the demand for a much larger venue.
During the 1900s, the Royal Tournament was hosted here. Today there are three exhibition halls, with the Grand Hall being the most impressive structure. It resembles a railway station, although it was always designed specifically as an exhibition hall.
By the early 20th century, Olympia was regularly hosting the Royal Tournament. Kensington (Olympia) station serves as the main Underground and mainline access point, and Earls Court Exhibition Centre is within walking distance.
On 30 August 2008, The Chemical Brothers played at Olympia.
Further information can be found at: http://www.eco.co.uk/
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