If you’re not an east London resident, a mention of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park might simply evoke an image of the world-famous Olympic and Paralympic Stadium of the London 2012 Games. But what many don’t know is that there’s lots going on in this lovely, leafy green community. Music lovers, culture vultures and foodies alike will find something to fulfil their interests here. So whether you’re planning an outing with friends or a fun day with the family, this Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park winter round-up is a great place to find some inspo…
1. Sing your heart out at ABBA Voyage
Since opening in May 2022, ABBA VOYAGE has succeeded in beguiling the million plus people that have set foot inside its purpose-built Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park arena. So whether you’re yet to experience it, or you’re planning on making a return trip (you wouldn’t be the first), now is the time to do so. This one-of-a-kind concert has been showered with rave reviews – combining cutting edge technology and spectacular lighting to take audiences on an unforgettable journey through ABBA’s greatest hits. Don’t miss your chance to watch the impossibly life-like avatars perform with a ten-piece live band in a totally unique, London exclusive concert experience. Grab a ticket now! Plus, you can fuel up pre-concert or indulge yourself after all that dancing thanks to the range of restaurants and bars in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, we’ll share a suggestion or two below! 1 Pudding Mill Ln, E15 2RU
3. Catch an inspiring exhibition at London College of Fashion
This free, multimedia exhibition at London College of Fashion will highlight the power of creativity as a force for positive social change. Spanning a range of disciplines, the exhibition will showcase textiles, film, photography and more. Explore an interactive living room installation reflecting the lives and experiences of east London residents, along with ten years of social responsibility work at Designed for Life, until January 19.
4. Taste your way around Hackney Bridge
Street food fans, pay attention. Because Hackney Bridge is home to an exceptional cohort of London street food vendors. Here you’ll find everything from Japanese-inspired soul food to Filipino barbecue and Neapolitan pizza. But this place isn’t just for the hungry. Hackney Bridge is also home to loads of great independent retailers, including Black Dahlia tattoo parlour, Cake Cult and Onyx Nails. What’s more, they use their space to host a range of events, including a brilliant flea market which takes place every Sunday. Units 1-28, Echo Building, E Bay Ln, E15 2SJ
5. Grab some to-die-for food and drinks at Darkhorse
With a delectable food offering and an exquisite wine and cocktail menu, we declare Darkhorse to be an excellent stop on your foodie tour around Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Graze on small plates such as squid ink arancini, fresh burrata with flat peaches and baked sardines. Or tuck into mains such as charred onglet steak or fresh tagliatelle with San Marzano tomatoes, ricotta and basil. 16-19 Victory Parade, East Village, Stratford E20 1FS
6. Take the plunge at London Aquatics Centre
Unsurprisingly, the main attractions of this rather remarkable, charitable social enterprise are its three swimming pools (two of which are 50m long!) and its 35m diving board. However, there is so much more you can do at London Aquatics Centre. Offering everything from personal training sessions and fitness classes to holiday activities and birthday parties, it’s a fantastic place to visit for people of all ages. The building itself is also a sight to behold and is easily reachable from Stratford International, Hackney Wick, Stratford Rail Station and Pudding Mill Lane.
7. Relax with coffee and cake at Timber Lodge cafe
The peaceful green surroundings of the Timber Lodge are just one reason why this cafe is such a great spot. Their award-winning coffee and freshly baked pastries are obviously another great attraction. But aside from all that, this wonderful community hub works with other social enterprises to help people experiencing homelessness find living wage jobs, housing, training and a fresh start. So you can enjoy your treats knowing your money is going towards a great cause! 1A Honour Lea Ave, E20 1DY
8. The Stratford
Whether you’re visiting from further afield, or you just want to treat yourself to a mini staycation, we recommend a stay at The Stratford . As well as giving you easy access to all of the fab activities we’ve listed above, it’s also just 6 minutes from St. Pancras International by High Speed Rail. Saying that, upon arriving you might find you have no desire to set foot outside ever again. Because with everything from a sky terrace, a world-class mezzanine cocktail bar, an award-winning restaurant and impossibly comfy beds, why would you? Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 20 International Way E20 1FD