A Visitor's Introduction to ExCel London

ExCeL London Overview and History

ExCeL London (Exhibition Centre London) opened in 2000 and has since become a key destination for major events in the UK and Europe. It was expanded in 2010 with the addition of the International Convention Centre (ICC), which includes a large auditorium, meeting rooms, and additional flexible spaces. The venue’s riverside setting provides a modern backdrop, with striking views over the Royal Victoria Dock and easy access to central London.

The centre has hosted numerous high-profile events over the years, including the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where it was transformed into a multi-sport venue. Regularly hosting events like the World Travel Market, London Comic Con, and BETT (British Educational Training and Technology Show), ExCeL London has established itself as a premier destination for industries ranging from technology to fashion and healthcare.

Layout and Facilities

ExCeL London is divided into two main halls, the North and South halls, which are connected by a central boulevard. The expansive layout provides over 100,000 square metres (over 1 million square feet) of flexible exhibition space, divided into multiple halls that can be adapted to suit the scale and requirements of different events. The International Convention Centre (ICC) London, part of ExCeL, includes:

Auditorium: A 4,500-seat theatre designed for conferences and large presentations.
Capital Suite: A series of meeting rooms with a capacity of up to 1,200, suitable for smaller events, seminars, and workshops.
Gallery Meeting Rooms: 29 high-specification rooms ideal for breakout sessions, board meetings, or intimate gatherings.

The venue is fully accessible, with step-free entrances, elevators, and accessible toilets throughout the complex. It also offers high-speed internet, modern AV equipment, and on-site technical support, catering to the technological needs of contemporary events.

ExCel London Highlights

1. Exhibition Halls: The North and South halls are designed for large-scale exhibitions and trade shows. The versatile space allows for customisation based on event size, making it suitable for everything from small showcases to expansive industry expos.

2. International Convention Centre (ICC) London: As part of ExCeL, the ICC London offers additional space for conferences and formal gatherings. The main auditorium, Capital Hall, and meeting suites are equipped with advanced AV technology and adaptable seating arrangements.

3. Central Boulevard: This 600-metre (nearly 2,000-foot) long boulevard is the main spine of ExCeL London, linking the exhibition halls with cafes, bars, and networking spaces. It serves as a central meeting point for visitors and exhibitors, facilitating easy navigation within the venue.

4. Waterfront Location: ExCeL’s position along the Royal Victoria Dock provides a scenic setting for events. The dock area includes outdoor terraces and is accessible for water-based activities, such as the Emirates Air Line cable car, which offers a unique aerial view of the surrounding area.

5. Versatile Event Spaces: With customisable halls and a variety of smaller meeting rooms, ExCeL London is ideal for events of varying sizes and formats. The adaptability of its spaces allows for different types of events to be hosted simultaneously.

6. Food and Beverage Options: ExCeL London offers a range of dining choices, from grab-and-go outlets to sit-down restaurants and cafés, featuring a mix of international cuisines and local flavours. During larger events, additional food trucks and pop-up vendors provide even more variety.

7. On-site Hotel Accommodation: The venue is surrounded by several hotels, including international brands like Novotel, Aloft, and Crowne Plaza, providing convenient accommodation options for event attendees. The hotels are all within walking distance, reducing travel time for delegates.

Nearby Attractions

ExCeL London’s location in the Royal Docks area places it near several other attractions:

The O2 Arena: One of London’s premier entertainment venues, the O2 hosts concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions. It is easily accessible from ExCeL via the IFS Cloud cable car or a short drive.

Canary Wharf: A short journey from ExCeL, Canary Wharf is a major business district featuring modern architecture, shopping centres, and waterfront dining options. It also has cultural attractions like the Museum of London Docklands.

Greenwich: Accessible by river or the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), Greenwich offers historic sites like the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum, as well as Greenwich Market.

London City Airport: Located just minutes away, London City Airport connects ExCeL with European cities, making it easy for international visitors to attend events without extensive travel times.

Practical Information for Visitors

Getting There: ExCeL London is served by two Docklands Light Railway (DLR) stations: Custom House and Prince Regent, both offering direct access to the venue. The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) further enhances connectivity, reducing travel time to central London and Heathrow Airport. For those driving, the centre offers 3,070 on-site parking spaces, and there are also options for coach parking.

Accessibility: ExCeL London is fully accessible, with designated parking spaces, accessible seating, and step-free access throughout the complex. Guide dogs are welcome, and there are accessible toilets and changing facilities.

Visitor Services: The venue provides a range of services to enhance the visitor experience, including cloakrooms, charging stations, business services, and information desks. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas.

Sustainability Initiatives: ExCeL London is committed to sustainable practices, holding ISO 20121 certification for sustainable event management. The venue has implemented energy-saving measures, waste reduction strategies, and green transport options to minimize its environmental impact.

Tips for Visitors

Plan Accommodation Early: Hotels around ExCeL London can book up quickly, especially during major events, so it’s advisable to secure accommodation well in advance.

Check Event Schedules: ExCeL hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, so checking the schedule on the official website can help visitors plan their visit around events that interest them.

Use Public Transport: Given the venue’s excellent connectivity with the DLR, Elizabeth Line, and river services, using public transport is a convenient option, helping visitors avoid the challenges of driving and parking in London.

Explore the Area: If time permits, exploring the nearby attractions like the O2 or taking a cable car ride over the Thames can provide a memorable addition to an ExCeL visit.