Olympia is a historic exhibition and entertainment destination on Hammersmith Road in West London. It hosts trade shows, public exhibitions, conferences, sporting events and live music performances throughout the year. With its famous exhibition halls and major redevelopment, the venue is becoming an even bigger destination for visitors, businesses and entertainment fans in 2026.
The venue is located at Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX, close to Kensington (Olympia) railway station. Visitors can attend events in its historic halls or discover newer spaces designed for concerts, conferences, dining and other experiences. The best way to plan a visit is to check the schedule for the specific date, as opening times, ticket arrangements and access rules vary between events.
Whether you are looking for concerts, upcoming exhibitions, venue capacity, transport information or photographs of the building, this guide explains what to know before travelling.
What Is Olympia in London?
Olympia is a major exhibition and events venue in West London with a history dating back to 1886. It has traditionally been associated with large exhibitions, trade fairs, consumer shows and business conferences. Over time, it has developed into a wider destination that combines its original exhibition spaces with modern facilities for entertainment and hospitality.
The site includes three historic halls: the Grand Hall, the National Hall and the West Hall. These spaces accommodate different types of events, from industry exhibitions and shopping fairs to public gatherings and specialist shows. The wider redevelopment has also introduced new facilities, including the British Airways ARC live music venue, a convention centre, restaurants and hotels.
The name Olympia is now used for the wider destination, while many visitors still search for Olympia London when looking for its established exhibition halls, concerts or event information.
Olympia London Events Today
Anyone searching for events today should check the official event calendar before travelling. The programme changes regularly, and not every event is open to the general public. Some exhibitions are intended for trade professionals, while others welcome visitors who buy tickets or register in advance.
As of Monday, 12 October 2026, the official calendar lists Decorex, running from 11 to 14 October 2026. The event focuses on luxury interiors, furniture, lighting and design. Other events are scheduled later in October, including business exhibitions, live music and public entertainment.
Opening times can differ even when events take place in the same hall. Check the event date, admission requirements and ticket information before setting off. Do not assume that the venue offers general admission throughout the day simply because an event appears on its calendar.
For the most accurate information, use the venue’s current programme to confirm what is happening on your chosen date.
Olympia London Events 2026
The 2026 programme includes exhibitions, consumer shows, live performances, sporting activities and business events. The variety makes the venue useful for both specialist visitors and people looking for an activity or day out in London.
Several events listed for the remainder of October and November 2026 include:
- CustomerX: A business event scheduled for 14–15 October.
- Khalid: A live music performance listed for 15 October.
- Battle Cancer: A fitness event scheduled for 17 October.
- London Snow Show: A winter sports and travel event running from 17–18 October.
- The Baby Show: A family-focused event scheduled for 23–25 October.
- The Reytons: A live performance listed for 24 October.
- Topps UCC Match Attax Half Term Celebration: A football-themed event scheduled from 28 October.
- Spirit of Christmas Fair: A festive shopping event running from 2–8 November.
- The Luxury Travel Fair: A travel-focused event scheduled for 5–8 November.
- The Ideal Christmas Show: A seasonal event scheduled for 26–29 November.
Dates, venues within the site and ticket arrangements can change. Check the latest listing before making travel plans, particularly if you are attending a concert or a ticketed exhibition.
Olympia London Concerts and Live Music
The venue’s entertainment offering is expanding beyond traditional exhibitions. British Airways ARC is a dedicated live music space designed for major performances, established artists and emerging acts. Its programme brings another reason for music fans to visit West London.
Khalid is listed for a performance on 15 October 2026, while The Reytons are scheduled for 24 October. These events are examples of the live music programme rather than a complete list of concerts for the year. New dates and artists may be announced, so visitors should check the current calendar for the latest information.
Before booking, confirm the artist, performance date, doors-opening time and ticket conditions. Check whether the event is standing, seated or uses a mixed layout, as arrangements vary between performances. It is also sensible to plan your return journey in advance, especially if the concert finishes late.
The British Airways ARC is part of the wider transformation of the site into a destination for live entertainment, dining and other cultural experiences.
Olympia London Venue and Capacity
The site contains several event spaces, so there is no single capacity figure that accurately describes every exhibition, conference or performance held there. The number of people admitted depends on the building, event layout, safety arrangements and whether the occasion uses seated or standing areas.
The most useful published figure for concertgoers is the capacity of British Airways ARC, which is designed to accommodate 3,800 people. This makes it a substantial live music venue for performances and entertainment events.
The wider destination includes the historic Grand Hall, National Hall and West Hall, alongside an international convention centre and additional facilities. These spaces serve different purposes. A trade exhibition may use a large open floor, while a conference may require meeting rooms, presentation areas and seating.
A separate British Airways Theatre is planned with a capacity of 1,575 seats. Its opening is part of the longer-term development programme, so visitors should check current information rather than assume it is already operating.
For a specific event, the organiser’s ticketing information is the best guide to seating plans, accessible areas and admission limits.
Where Is the Venue Located?
The venue is at Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX, in West London. Its location makes it accessible from several parts of the capital by rail and Underground, with local buses and road connections providing further travel options.
Kensington (Olympia) station is next to the venue and is usually the most convenient rail option for visitors whose service stops there. West Kensington and Barons Court Underground stations are also within walking distance, although the best choice depends on your starting point and the transport services operating on the day.
If you are travelling from central London, check your route before leaving and allow extra time for busy events. Large exhibitions and concerts can attract substantial crowds, especially around opening and closing times.
The postcode is useful when checking directions or arranging a taxi. If you are driving, review the venue’s current parking instructions before starting your journey.
Olympia London Station and Transport
Kensington (Olympia) is the station most closely associated with the venue. It provides direct access to the surrounding exhibition and entertainment complex, making it a convenient option for many visitors.
West Kensington and Barons Court are alternative Underground stations within walking distance. Depending on where you are travelling from, one of these may offer a simpler connection than the railway station. Check live transport updates before setting off, particularly at weekends or during planned engineering works.
For visitors using public transport, these steps can make the journey easier:
- Check the station and route that best match your starting point.
- Confirm any service changes or planned closures.
- Allow extra time during major exhibitions and concerts.
- Keep your ticket or event confirmation ready before reaching the entrance.
- Plan your return journey if the event ends late.
The closest station is not necessarily the best option for every journey, so compare routes rather than relying on a single travel plan. If you need step-free access, confirm the accessibility arrangements for both your station and the event entrance.
Olympia London Photos and Architecture
Photographs of the venue show a combination of historic exhibition architecture and modern development. Its original halls are an important part of the site’s identity, while newer public areas and entertainment facilities reflect its transformation into a broader visitor destination.
The Grand Hall, National Hall and West Hall offer different architectural features and event settings. Depending on the occasion, photographs may show large exhibition floors, exhibition stands, conference layouts, live audiences or the building’s exterior. The surrounding redevelopment also includes new public spaces and places to eat and drink.
If you are looking for photos before visiting, useful subjects include the exterior on Hammersmith Road, the historic halls, the entrance areas, the British Airways ARC and the newly developed public spaces. Event photographs can also help you understand the atmosphere, but they may not represent the exact layout of your own visit.
Remember that the venue can look very different from one event to another. Exhibition stands, temporary stages, seating and security arrangements often change to suit the organiser’s requirements.
Food, Parking and Visitor Facilities
Visitors can find food and drink options within the wider destination and in the surrounding neighbourhood. The available choices depend on which parts of the site are open and what is operating during a particular event. For large shows, it is worth checking whether food outlets are available inside the relevant hall.
Parking is available, but spaces are limited and advance booking is recommended. Some spaces may be available on the day, although they are not guaranteed. Visitors should check the current parking arrangements, entrance instructions and charges before driving.
The venue also provides visitor facilities that can include cloakrooms during events and free Wi-Fi. Bag searches and other security checks may apply, so travelling with a small bag can make entry easier. Rules about permitted items differ by event and should be checked before arrival.
Accessibility provisions include ramps, lifts and accessible toilets across key areas. Manual wheelchairs may be available to borrow for certain events, with advance arrangements recommended. Check the relevant accessibility information if you require step-free access, a companion ticket or other assistance.
What to Know Before Visiting in 2026
A little preparation can make a busy event much easier to navigate. Start by checking the date and location of your chosen event, as different halls or spaces may host separate activities on the same day.
Buy tickets or register in advance where required. Many events do not offer general walk-up admission, and some have specific entry slots. Keep your confirmation available and read any instructions from the organiser about identification, prohibited items or late entry.
Plan transport and parking before leaving home. Kensington (Olympia) station is beside the venue, but service changes can affect your journey. If you drive, pre-book parking where possible and follow the designated entrance instructions.
For concerts, check the doors-opening time, expected finish and ticket conditions. For exhibitions, look at the event programme to decide which areas you want to visit. If accessibility is important, confirm the facilities for your particular hall or performance space instead of assuming that every event uses an identical layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events are on at Olympia today?
The official calendar lists Decorex from 11 to 14 October 2026, including Monday, 12 October. Other events are scheduled later in the month. Check the current calendar before travelling because event times and admission arrangements can change.
What is the capacity of British Airways ARC?
British Airways ARC is designed for a capacity of 3,800 people. The actual arrangement for an individual performance may vary according to its seating plan, standing areas and safety requirements.
Which station is closest to the venue?
Kensington (Olympia) railway station is next to the venue. West Kensington and Barons Court Underground stations are also within walking distance. Your best route will depend on your starting point and current transport services.
Are there concerts in October 2026?
Yes. The published programme includes Khalid on 15 October and The Reytons on 24 October 2026. Check the latest event listings and ticket details before making plans.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available, but spaces are limited. Advance booking is recommended, and on-the-day spaces may not be guaranteed. Check the current parking information for charges and the correct entrance.
Can visitors take photos inside?
Photography rules depend on the event. General photographs of the building and public areas may be possible, but concerts, exhibitions and private events can impose restrictions. Follow the instructions displayed at the venue and any rules provided by the organiser.
Conclusion
Olympia remains one of West London’s established destinations for exhibitions, conferences and public events, while its 2026 transformation is expanding the site into a wider entertainment and hospitality destination. Visitors can explore historic halls, attend specialist exhibitions, discover live music at British Airways ARC and make use of new dining and public spaces as they become available.
For anyone planning a visit, the most important details are the event date, ticket requirements, venue capacity where relevant and the best transport route. Kensington (Olympia) station is next to the site, with additional Underground options within walking distance. Parking and accessibility arrangements should be checked in advance.
Whether you are attending a concert, exploring a design exhibition or visiting a major public show, checking the latest event information before travelling will help you arrive prepared and enjoy your day in West London.
