The O2

The O2 stands as London’s central location for sports, shopping, history, art and many forms of entertainment. Each year, millions of visitors from across the globe are drawn to this spot to take in its architectural design, find a wealth of entertainment options and see some of the world’s finest entertainers, musicians and athletes.

Located on the Greenwich peninsula in the South East part of London, O2 is a massive entertainment district with a modern music club, 11-screen cinema, exhibition hall, and an area filled with bars, restaurants and activities to please anyone’s taste.

O2 sits on the location of the former Millennium Dome, a large facility erected to celebrate the new millennium. The Millennium Dome was open throughout the year 2000 with a plethora of exhibitions surrounding the themes of “who we are,” “what we do,” and “where we live.” After the close of the millennium exhibit, the dome and 150 acres around it were converted into a world-class entertainment and sports district with events, shopping, housing and businesses.Naming rights were sold to the telecommunications firm, O2.

The new venue opened in 2007 with a concert by Bon Jovi. The Millennium Dome was converted into the O2 Arena, and its exterior design still stands as part of the visual look for the current venue. The large, white dome with tall, yellow towers is recognizable as one of London’s top landmarks.

The O2 Arena is at the heart of this venue; its 23,000 seats make it one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe. Many of the world’s top musicians, particularly in the genres of pop, rock and classical, have graced the stages of this magnificent facility since its opening. The area is also designed for world-class sporting events, including the upcoming 2012 Olympics.

Performances from world renowned acting troupes and ballet companies can also be enjoyed here. Huge numbers of visitors take in such performances at the arena, putting its ticket sales above other world-wide venues, including Madison Square Garden.

Smaller events are held in the venue’s indigO2, which holds 2,410 attendees. In addition to live shows and music concerts, indigO2 holds private events, club events, and corporate functions.

Cineworld @ O2 boasts the largest movie theatre in London, a 770-seat theater; in total, Cineworld houses 11 screens spread throughout two floors. Popular, traveling exhibitions are frequently on display in the venue’s exhibition space. For easy access, the venue is served by the close-by North Greenwich station.

Many hotels near O2 offer visitors exceptional stays and proximity to popular London sites. Surrounding O2, the Greenwich area of London is full of maritime history and scenic outdoor views of the river. The location’s strong links with British royalty mean that visitors will have plenty to see of the area’s history.

Hotels Near the O2