London 2012 Olympic Supplement by BRITAIN

our olympic year

BRITAIN 2012

Join us as we celebrate the biggest show on Earth!

The Flame oF B r iTa i n It is the biggest event in the global sporting calendar and 2012 is the year that the spotlight is yet again on Britain and London, as the capital hosts the games for an historic third time Olympic preparatiOns began in earnest back in 2005, when london won the bid. since then, some 200,000 people have worked to stage an event where billions will watch 10,000 world-class athletes competing for the ultimate sporting prize – an Olympic gold medal. With the new Olympic park in stratford, east london, ready to host the biggest show on earth, so begins a tradition that brings Olympic fervour to all corners of the host nation – the Olympic torch relay. this year, the relay is particularly exciting for the Uk, as it coincided with Hm Queen elizabeth ii's Diamond Jubilee bank

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holiday weekend in June, where street parties and communities up and down the country came together in celebration. the relay provides another opportunity to line the streets and the route has been designed to bring the torch to within ten miles of 95 per cent of the Uk’s population, giving everyone the chance to get involved in the Olympic excitement and history. the torch has always been a significant element of the modern Olympiad and traces its origins back to the ancient greek games. today, the flame is lit from the sun’s rays at the temple of Hera in Olympia and follows a short relay around greece before being delivered to the host nation. the idea behind the relay is to spread the message of peace before the games start and, for 2012, the torch’s design carries symbolism unique to its host nation. its golden aluminium alloy is perforated with 8,000 laser-cut holes, each representing the 8,000 inspirational torchbearers carrying the flame around the Uk. the Uk has its own unique Olympic history and played a significant role in raising the Olympic games to the iconic status it has today. the Victorian doctor William penny brookes campaigned tirelessly for the revival of the ancient greek games in his hometown, much Wenlock in shropshire. a champion of the health benefits of physical www.britain-magazine.com

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photos: Š press association/london 2012

Above: H J Bignall (right) handing over the Olympic Torch to Fred Prevett at Redhill, Surrey during the flame's progress from Dover to Wembley, London for the Opening ceremony of the 1948 Games. Left: Competitors in the 1908 London Olympic's Marathon leaving Windsor on route to London, July 1908

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photos: Š press association/london 2012

Clockwise from above: The teams lined up during the opening ceremony of the 1948 Olympic Games at Wembley; the Equestrian Stadium in Greenwich Park; London 2012 Paralympic medals; aerial view of the Olympic Park showing the Olympic Stadium. Facing page, top: Mark Cavendish victorious in London 2012 road race test event, finishing on The Mall; bottom: the start of the 100 kilometres cycle race at the 1908 Olympics in London

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exercise, he created the Wenlock Olympian Society in 1850 and its annual Olympian Games provided inspiration for the modern Olympics when it was revived in Greece in 1896, a year after brookes’s death. the importance of Wenlock is reflected in the fact that one of the London 2012’s Olympic mascots is named after it.

London itself has a long Olympic heritage and is the first city in the world to host the Olympics for the third time. its first Games were in 1908; London rose to the occasion when the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in italy meant that rome was no longer able to host as planned. London was chosen to host again in 1944, but had to postpone until 1948 due to the Second World War. the 2012 Olympics has given the UK capital the chance to build a great stage for this global event and, yet again, it has risen to the

challenge. However, along with the brand new Olympic Village in East London, a whole raft of other major sporting venues around the country are set to host events, including Wimbledon; Lords Cricket Ground; the football stadiums in Coventry, Glasgow, Cardiff, Manchester and Wembley; Hadleigh Farm in Essex; Hampton Court Palace; and Weymouth and Portland on the Dorset coastline. the flame is set to visit all of them as it makes its way through 1,018 places in the UK, culminating, of course, with the grand Opening Ceremony taking place on 27 July. back in May, the flame was passed to british football hero David beckham in a ceremony at the Panathenaic Stadium in athens. beckham, who hopes to himself compete for an Olympic gold as part of team Gb’s football squad, joined Princess anne, London Mayor boris Johnson and London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe as part of a formal delegation bringing the Olympic flame to the UK. it arrived at a Cornish air base on british airways flight ba2012, following a week-long relay around the Olympics’ ancestral home to begin its 70-day tour around the UK. Over the next nine pages, join us as we take you on a journey around the highlights of the Olympic Torch Relay, stopping to enjoy 24 of Britain’s most beautiful places and meeting some of the inspirational torchbearers along the way... britain 2012 V

land’S End, cornwall England’s western-most tip marks the relay’s starting point, which began its journey at 7.08am against a spectacular atlantic backdrop. the landmark signpost at Land’s End is famous for marking the distance

to britain’s most northerly point, John O'Groats. Successful Olympic sailor ben ainslie, who struck gold in the last three Games, is the first of 8,000 torchbearers to take the flame across the country.

EdEn ProjEct, cornwall

Snowdonia national Park, walES

One of the first major staging posts for the torch is inside Cornwall’s recently created landmark, the Eden Project, which is part tourist attraction, part educational charity and part social enterprise. the flame takes flight in a helium balloon inside one of the Eden Project’s giant spherical greenhouses. the balloon, normally used by gardeners to scale the 50-metre high rainforest ‘biome’, is one of many different vehicles being used to transport the flame throughout its journey across the length and breadth of the country.

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as part of the tour around Wales, the flame is taken to the highest peak of England and Wales, when the Snowdon Mountain railway carries it in a lantern to the summit of Mount Snowdon. the views of surrounding Snowdonia – the largest national park in Wales – are breathtaking, with its craggy landscape punctuated by historic castles and pretty villages. the Snowdonian people are proud of their Celtic heritage, and the Welsh native tongue is spoken by more than half of its residents.

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the torch continues its monumental journey into Scotland, stopping off for a major celebration in its largest city, Glasgow. Friendly, vibrant and a hub of culture and creativity, Glasgow is celebrating the Olympic flame’s visit in style with a free evening concert.

Glasgow takes its sport seriously, and as well as staging several 2012 Olympic Football fixtures at its Hampden Park Stadium, it is also gearing up to host the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

LanD'S EnD, COrnWaLL Ben Ainslie started the 70-day relay at the Land’s End landmark signpost at 7.08am on 19 May. He grew up in Cornwall and won gold medals in sailing at the beijing, athens and Sydney Olympic Games.

EnniskillEn CastlE, northErn irEland beginning in belfast, the Olympic Flame journeys across northern ireland during a four-day tour. as well as the dramatic spectacle of the Giant’s Causeway in County antrim on the outward coastal route, part of the inland route takes in Enniskillen Castle. Constructed in the early 15th century by Gaelic chieftains, the castle grounds also boast a 17th-century twin-turreted Watergate and impressive 19th-century barracks buildings, as well as two museums. Surrounded by lush irish countryside on the banks of the river Erne, Enniskillen Castle remains an important part of Fermanagh’s rich heritage.

He also won a silver medal at the 1996 Games in atlanta. “i am extremely honoured to be the first torchbearer at the start of the 70-day Olympic torch relay. it will be an amazing experience to be able to carry the Olympic Flame in the area that i grew up in.”

Balmoral EstatE, aBErdEEnshirE From the buzzing urban centres of Glasgow and Edinburgh, the torch continues northwards through Scotland’s stunning countryside to balmoral, the british royal family’s treasured Scottish home. bought

by Queen Victoria in 1848, who described it as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”, balmoral Estate itself covers more than 50,000 acres of heather-clad hills and ancient Caledonian woodland. the carefully preserved wildlife and architecture of the grounds and gardens, which are open to the public, are accompanied in the year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by a special exhibition of Her Majesty the Queen’s ballgowns, with a diamond theme. www.britain-magazine.com

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Fountains aBBey, yorkshire the flame wends its way into north Yorkshire to a hidden gem nestled between the cathedral city of ripon and the historic spa town of Harrogate in the Yorkshire Dales. Studley royal, which includes the ruins of Fountains abbey, became a World Heritage Site in 1986. Comprising 800 acres of English countryside, the magnificent estate spans 800 years of history with its 12th-century abbey, Jacobean mansion, Deer Park and Victorian gothic church.

Blackpool, lancashire Over to the west coast of England, the flame stops off at the much-loved city of blackpool. Still britain’s most popular holiday destination, blackpool is stuffed full of family attractions including the iconic blackpool tower and its world famous nightly illuminations, which will be in full radiance while the torch visits this vibrant seaside town. in true blackpool style, a star-studded spectacular evening of celebration is planned to welcome the flame at the tower Festival Headland venue on its route through Lancashire.

humBer Bridge, hull back over the border into northeast England, the Humber bridge’s iconic structure creates a dramatic backdrop to the Olympic Flame as it passes through Hull VIII britain 2012

and East riding. When it was built in the 1970s, the Humber bridge was the largest single span suspension bridge in the world, measuring nearly 1.5 miles in length. www.britain-magazine.com

yorkshire scuLpture park, WakefieLd, yorkshire indoor galleries set in 500 acres of the 18th back in Yorkshire, the flame passes century-designed bretton Estate. During through a modern cultural phenomenon.

2012, the park is exhibiting outdoor work by Yorkshire Sculpture Park provides an 20th-century surrealist master Joan Miró, extraordinary setting for some of the best as well as british sculptor antony Gormley’s contemporary sculpture, with a unique mesmerising installation Field for the british combination of the cultural, the artistic and the natural world. the park houses five isles, with its 40,000 terracotta figures.

matLock bath, derbyshire One of England’s treasured national parks, the Peak District has scores of pretty villages and tourist attractions including the Heights of abraham in Matlock bath, with its stunning aerial views of the surrounding area viewable from the park’s cable cars. the torch is carried to the park’s summit and back by cable car, before travelling a few miles down the road, to Chatsworth House. this stunning stately home to the current Duke of Devonshire is undergoing a £14m transformation programme making its cultural riches available for all to enjoy.

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LincoLn cathedraL, LincoLnshire the historic city of Lincoln signals a further stop for the flame, and will host a special free concert at Yarborough Sports Ground, where a carnival atmosphere is promised. the following morning, the relay continues from the cathedral, which rises majestically from the centre of the city. blending norman, Gothic and baroque architecture, Lincoln Cathedral was once described by the famed Victorian art critic John ruskin as “out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the british isles”.

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windsor Castle, Berkshire another royal residence is visited on day 53 of the torch relay, when HM Queen Elizabeth ii witnesses the flame prior to officially opening the Games at the Olympic Stadium. Windsor Castle remains the Queen’s private home, having been a royal home and fortress for more than 900 years. Windsor is also a host venue for the Games; the Eton Dorney rowing Lake will be where the Olympic rowing and kayaking events will take place.

Coventry Cathedral, Coventry the torch’s visit coincides with the Golden Jubilee of the rebuilding of its much-loved cathedral. Despite being ravaged by bombs during the second World War, the Cathedral was rebuilt in 1962 and exists alongside the old ruined building, which serves as a touching memorial. Coventry’s stadium is hosting several of the Olympic football fixtures, having been launched in 2007 by british Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes.

tYnDrUM, GLaSGOW Erinn Foley from Penilee, is one of the youngest torchbearers at 12 years old. She attends Paisley Grammar School in renfrewshire and was nominated by her headteacher.

“Carrying the torch is a really big event for me. i’m so excited! My great gran is 82 years old and recovering from a broken hip and she's working really hard to get mobile so she can be there to see me. i hope that one day i can take part in the Olympics and hopefully win something for my country!”

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norwiCh Castle, norfolk the flame's arrival in norwich coincides with the city’s four-day Lord Mayor Celebration festival, which includes street fayres, a carnival and fireworks show, and concerts. the torch will also visit norwich Castle, one of the city’s key landmarks. the 900-year-old royal palace built by the normans is now a museum and art gallery packed with anglo Saxon and Viking treasures and unearthed relics dating back as far as the 6th and 7th centuries.

Welcome to Fortnum & Mason Since 1707, Fortnum & Mason has been the home of fine food and gifts in the heart of historic Piccadilly. Founded by a footman at the Court of Queen Anne, we have been a favourite of the monarchy for over three hundred years.

Step through our oak doors into a world of heritage, where you will find the most wonderful range of unique goods, from teas and honeys, to fragrances, jewellery and china - and five exquisite restaurants that embody the capital’s most exciting cuisine.

Fortnum’s is history brought alive, beautifully. Come and see us and let us serve you royally.

Fortnum & Mason 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER. Telephone: 0845 300 1707 www.fortnumandmason.com Nearest underground stations: Piccadilly Circus and Green Park

INSPIRING THE TENNIS GREATS Every summer brings another exciting Championship at Wimbledon, so why not visit the amazing award-winning Museum and learn more about the history which inspires the great players, and see John McEnroe’s ‘ghost’ and the original tournament trophies. You may also take the behind the scenes tour of the grounds and explore the home of tennis, including Centre Court, for a truly inspirational experience.

SUPPORTED BY

THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED FROM 9 TO 27 JULY AND FROM 5 TO 14 AUGUST BECAUSE OF THE OLYMPIC BUILDUP AND BREAKDOWN

Open Daily 10:00am until 5:00pm Nearest Underground: Southfields Telephone: 020 8946 6131 The Museum Building, The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Church Road, Wimbledon, London SW19 5AE WIMBLEDON.COM/MUSEUM

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durdle door, dorset Moving across the south of England, the flame will tour Dorset’s Jurassic Coast passing one of its flagship attractions, Durdle Door. named after the Old English word ‘thirl’ meaning bore or drill, the magnificent

arch of rock that reaches out to sea remains one of England’s most stunning natural phenomena. the surrounding seas, around Weymouth and Portland, will provide the waters for the Games’ sailing events.

the Isle of WIght the flame makes a brief stop at England’s largest island and popular holiday hotspot, crossing the Solent by ferry. One torchbearer gets to travel by chairlift over the coloured sand clifftops of alum bay down to the beach, which gives a great aerial

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view of another famous landmark carved from the sea – the needles.

Queen Victoria was so charmed by this island that she and Prince albert had a palace built. Osborne House is open so all can now enjoy the royal pavilion and terraced gardens.

Jersey Island the flame makes another jaunt across the water to the Channel islands, with Jersey being its southernmost stop. While Jersey remains a british Crown Dependency, the island retains a continental feel, being just 14 miles away from France, and enjoys milder temperatures than most of the UK. it boasts some fantastic patchwork-quilt countryside and historic attractions such as the Jersey War tunnels and Mont Orgueil Castle, with its network of staircases and secret rooms. www.britain-magazine.com

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Portsmouth historic DockyarD the torch relay continues through Portsmouth and its famed Historic Dockyard that boasts not one but three world-famous naval vessels. representing three epochs in british history, the Dockyard houses the Mary Rose – Henry Viii’s famous battleship; HMS Victory – admiral Lord nelson’s flagship famed for her role in the battle of trafalgar; and HMS Warrior 1860 – the pride of Queen Victoria’s black battle Fleet. a host of costumed characters, including nelson, Henry Viii and Queen Victoria, are scheduled to welcome the flame. the royal Pavilion, Brighton Further east along the coast, and more british history, this time from the regency period. Exotic in design, the palace reflects the lavish tastes of its creator, the Prince regent, who later became George iV. it was sold during Victoria’s reign and used as a hospital for indian soldiers during WWi. Since then, it has been lovingly restored to its former splendour and today contains a magnificent display of regency silver-gilt.

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KEttErinG, nOrtHaMPtOnSHirE Jim Redmond, father of two-time british Olympian Derek redmond, famously leapt from the stands during the 400m semi-final at the barcelona Olympic Games after his son tore a hamstring mid-race. He helped his son cross the finish line to a standing ovation. “i was absolutely thrilled to find out that i had been nominated by the british Olympic association as a torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympic torch relay. it truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity. My son’s race will forever be remembered, and while he did not win the gold medal he had dreamed of, he left an indelible mark on the 1992 Games. Hopefully, London 2012 will produce many more inspirational moments that will be remembered for years to come.”

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Royal obseRvatoRy and MeRidian tiMe line, GReenwich When the torch finally reaches London, one of its first ports of call is the home of Greenwich Mean time. by the late 19th century, most of the world’s commerce depended on sea-charts which used Greenwich as the Prime Meridian, status that was officially recognised in 1884. the royal Observatory is also home to London’s only planetarium and the iconic dome that houses the UK’s largest refracting telescope.

Greenwich is also hosting several events in the Olympics and Paralympic Games, including equestrian, modern pentathlon as well as dressage competitions.

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MiDDLEPOrt, CHESHirE Philip Greer, 55, from bucknall, contracted rheumatic fever when he was six years old, paralysing him from the waist down. He was expected to spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

However, within two years of the diagnosis, Philip began a long arduous rehabilitation. now, 47 years on, Philip is

2012 not only walking again but has also participated in 28 marathon runs.

“My dad was a great believer in my ability and always taught me to never give up. i owe my dad everything and my only regret is that he will not be here to see me carry the Olympic flame, but i know he will be watching me.”

wiMbledon, london another Olympic venue acknowledged by the flame as it gets closer to its final destination is the sumptuous lawns of the all England Lawn tennis Club. the grass courts of Wimbledon, home to the oldest tennis tournament in the world were the obvious choice to host the Olympic tennis. a huge redevelopment plan culminated in a groundbreaking retractable roof being fitted to Centre Court in 2009, but the 126-year-old club still retains its quintessentially british charm.

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Kew Gardens, richmond upon Thames three days before the torch reaches its final destination, it visits yet another World Heritage Site. Kew Gardens is famed for its cultural and architectural significance, as well as botanical importance. its pioneering Victorian glass houses represented the cutting edge of architectural technology at their time of construction. temperate House continues to inspire awe as the largest remaining glass structure from the period. to celebrate the Olympic Games, Kew has created a spectacular floral display of the rings on a grand scale, which are visible to passengers on many flights arriving at Heathrow airport. olympic sTadium, london Finally, on the last day of the torch relay, the flame is brought from Hampton Court Palace to the brand new Olympic Park in Stratford. the Olympic Stadium is the largest venue dominating the site; it’s joined by the basketball arena, with its eye-catching, white undulating cladding – one of the biggest temporary structures ever built for an Olympic Games. next to that is the award-winning sleek curved roof of the Velodrome, which will host the indoor cycling

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anDOVEr, HaMPSHirE Will Stevenson wanted the chance to carry the Olympic flame so that he could raise awareness of a rare illness called Smith Magenis Syndrome which affects his daughter, Lily, aged five. “i nominated myself and the reason was to inspire my daughter and raise public awareness of of this syndrome.”

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events and where team Gb’s hopes of medal success run high. the Stadium itself is flanked by the tallest art installation in britain: anish Kapoor’s red spiralling structure, the Orbit. the Olympic Park, which is to be renamed the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park after the Games, represents a major transformation and regeneration of the area. it has a brand new shopping centre and hundreds of newly built homes, and it is set to become a focal point in the capital for many years to come.

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R OY AL GREENWICH Visit

• Discover a World Heritage Site, the home of Greenwich Mean Time, the Royal Observatory and the

Old Royal Naval College

• Explore the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park and the newly restored Cutty Sark

• Browse the shops and vibrant markets • Enjoy days out at The O2, Eltham

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Palace and the Royal Arsenal

A Royal Borough on the banks of the river Thames, with outstanding historic landmarks and a rich maritime and royal history.

By Docklands Light Railway, riverboat and train. tic@greenwich.gov.uk 0870 608 2000 www.visitgreenwich.org.uk Scan here for more Royal Greenwich

The stage is set for the most spectacular sporting event that will showcase Britain and London all across the world this summer’s Olympic and paralympic Games in london is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime event for everybody living and visiting britain. but the celebrations do not just apply to the capital city – nor is it solely focused on sporting endeavour. the biggest cultural festival the country has ever seen has been arranged for 2012 so that the whole of the british isles can become part of the Olympic experience. From a stunning piece of human artwork set to illuminate arthur’s seat in edinburgh to an english flower garden of ceramic blooms to a special Olympic-themed proms, there are an incredible 12,000 special events happening at over 900 venues the length and breadth of britain from now until the end of september 2012. some have a strong sporting connection, while others revolve around celebrating britain’s music, art, theatre, film and comedy. this fits perfectly with the ideals of the very first Olympics. as recently as london’s last Olympic Games in 1948, medals were still awarded to artists as well as athletes. in 2012, the only people who can win medals will be those competing this summer, but that doesn’t mean britain’s artists, performers, choreographers and musicians aren’t also aiming for a gold standard, and we’ve selected some highlights that illustrate the very best that you can watch, enjoy and even participate in.

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phOtO: ©JasOn haWKes/imaGe FrOm FrOm BRITAIN FROM ABOVE MONTH BY MONTH by JasOn haWKes. published by dOrlinG Kindersley. see paGe45 FOr mOre details

The biggesT show on e a rT h

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shropshire

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a series of spellbinding digital projections at ironbridge Gorge add to the reasons to visit this World Heritage Site in the coming months. as well as being home to the world’s first iron bridge, the area also boasts Kurt Hentschläger’s COrE installation at ironbridge Gorge Enginuity Museum, from now until the end of September. the display uses light, movement and sound to pull you into a world of weightless figures, moving and interacting with one and another and creating a dream-like world. www.ironbridge.org.uk

Into orbIt innovative and exciting artwork and installations will adorn London’s Olympic Park at the heart of the Games (27 July to 12 august) through art in the Park, a venture aimed at integrating arts and culture into public spaces. this includes the vividly colourful Steles, tall columns which accentuate the main river that flows

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through the park. they will be used as boat moorings, making them both artistic and a fully functional part of London life.

Winning Words sees inspiring poetry, such as ‘to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield’ from alfred Lord tennyson’s Ulysses, prominently displayed around the park.

Fast, Faster, Fastest is an interactive bridge that will be lit up during the Games. after the Olympics, it will be programmed so that the lights flash along it at the speed of the Games’ fastest 100-metre sprints.

Standing above all this is the tallest art structure in britain; the 115-metre Orbit, designed by the internationally acclaimed british artist anish Kapoor. Visiting it involves travelling in a glass lift, which takes you through the Orbit’s spiralling red structure to a viewing platform that gives you spectacular views of London’s Olympic stadiums and the capital’s cityscape. the Orbit will be open throughout the Olympics, before reopening to visitors again in 2013. www.london2012.com/ spectators/venues/olympic-park

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edinburgh

illuminating edinburgh Historic Arthur’s Seat is home to a mesmerising visual display throughout August, as the mountain is brought to life by hundreds of runners and walkers. They will wear specialised light suits and each take a specific path every night to form a spectacular Speed of Light display. You can become part of the event, as a walking audience member can carry a portable light source up the dark features of the hill or you can stand back and admire the stunning show. http://speedoflight2012.org.uk

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VIctory Medals a unique british Museum exhibition aims is to tell the narrative of London’s medals, from the mining of the metals to their design, to the eventual production at the royal Mint. as well as showing the London medals to the public for the first time, the exhibition also delves into the long history britain has with the Olympic movement. Objects from the 19th-century Shropshire games sit alongside medals from the 1908 and 1948 London Olympics, offering a fascinating historical link to the events in London this summer. Open now until 9 September. www.britishmuseum.org www.britain-magazine.com

a celebration of the quintessential british love of flowers is at the heart of Paul Cummins’ the English Flower Garden. it involves a total of approximately 15,000 hand-thrown ceramic flowers displayed at six different locations, including Castle Howard in York, blenheim Palace in Oxford and the althorp Estate in northampton.

Each flower has been selected for its historic relationship with the location in question and is carefully displayed in an open, accessible way for all to enjoy these beautiful glazed, ceramic blooms. www.paulcumminsceramics.com

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light in august Each of Britain’s capital cities hosts a breathtaking Flame Festival in late August, where four separate Paralympic fires are lit.

This is accompanied by live sporting demonstrations, a stage show featuring rising stars and a beautiful lantern procession.

From their various destinations, the four flames will then take separate journeys to Stoke

Mandeville in Buckinghamshire – the spiritual home of the Paralympic movement – where they will be combined to create one London 2012 Paralympic Flame. That marks the beginning of a 24-hour torch relay to the Olympic Stadium, where the flame arrives on 29 August to mark the opening of the Paralympic Games. http://festival.london2012.com london

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Comedian Stephen Fry and other guests, including Tim Minchin ( left ) and some world-famous athletes, are part of a two-week event running alongside the Summer Olympics, called Playing the Games, at the capital’s historic Criterion Theatre. Two new plays have been written in response to the Games' arrival in London, while Olympic greats past and present take to the stage for a series of lunchtime discussions about their life and achievements, interviewed by TV and stage personalities. www.criterion-theatre.co.uk www.britain-magazine.com

The royal institute of british architects' exhibition tells the story behind the design and engineering of London’s 2012 stadiums, via detailed models and a stunning, 14-metre mural. Entry is free from now until 21 September. www.architecture.com

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All the official posters for the Olympic and Paralympic Games are on show as part of a free Tate Britain exhibition from June until 23 September. Among the 12 artists commissioned by a select panel were Turner Prize-winners Martin Creed, Tracey Emin (below) and Chris Ofili. www.tate.org.uk

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Inside the most famous bridge in the world

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Experience the beautiful Victorian Engine Rooms.

Enter and be amazed.

Prices: Adults ÂŁ8.00 Children ÂŁ3.40 Concessions ÂŁ5.60 Under 5s FREE Contact: 020 3627 2351 www.towerbridge.org.uk Tower Bridge is provided by the City of London Corporation - a uniquely diverse organisation in that it not only promotes and supports the city and provides it with a full range of services, but also provides wider services for London and for the nation as a whole.

Creekside

Cottages sleeping from 2 - 10 Available throughout the year Dogs Welcome

Nr Falmouth, Cornwall

´(DVWQRU LV D WUXH QDWLRQDO WUHDVXUH¾ The south coast of Cornwall is a patchwork of sheltered coves with beaches the colour of Cornish cream and the best of it is perfect for 'messing about in boats'. The Falmouth area, where you find the great majority of Creekside Cottages, is best of all. It has mile upon mile of sheltered waters and numerous secluded, unspoiled and beautifully wooded rivers and estuaries just waiting to be explored.

Just Come & Relax, Cottages sleeping 2- 10.

Picturesque positions. Christmas & New Year.

Open fires. Dogs welcome.

www.creeksidecottages.co.uk XXVIII britain 2012

2012 Public Opening Y May/June Bank Holiday Weekends: Sun 6th, Mon 7th May & Sun 3rd, Mon 4th Tues 5th June Y Every Sunday from 10th June – 30th September Y Sunday to Thursday from 15th July – 30th August

Castle and Grounds open 11.00am – 4.30pm (last admission 4.00pm)

Family events throughout the season, Groups welcome please visit our website for details. call 01531 633160 or visit www.eastnorcastle.com www.britain-magazine.com

BRITAIN 2012

nationwide

london

PhOtOS: © EStatE Of JOhn PiPEr / COurtESy Of thE uK GOvErnMEnt art/LOnDOn 2012

INSIDE NumbEr 10 a rare chance to peek inside the Government art Collection, which contains over 13,500 paintings and sculptures dating back to the 16th century, is on offer at the Whitechapel Gallery until 2 September. the exhibition contains portraits of past british Prime Ministers, and a World War ii photograph showing the bomb damage to the State rooms at 10 Downing Street. Other documents on display for the very first time include a list of the paintings hung in number 10, plus papers detailing the loan of Churchill’s bust to the Oval Office in Washington from 1997 to 2008. www.whitechapelgallery.org

celebrate the bard not only is the Danny boyle-directed, £81 million opening ceremony set to feature a strong Shakespearean theme, the bard is ubiquitous throughout the London 2012 festival. London’s Globe theatre has taken on a vast undertaking; staging 37 plays in 37 languages, a feast of diverse theatre in honour of the universal themes of Shakespeare’s characters and plays. further events include Shakespeare’s three shipwreck plays (The Comedy of Errors, Twelfth Night and The Tempest) performed as a trilogy in Stratford-upon-avon, while the renowned Welsh actor Jonathan Pryce takes on the role of King Lear at London’s almeida theatre. it’s just the tip of the iceberg of a series of special Shakespeare performances taking place across britain. http://festival.london2012.com

london

facES of 2012 Evocative Olympic portraits taken by some of the world’s finest photographers go on display at a special exhibition at the national Portrait Gallery, running from 19 July to 23 September. as well as images of british Olympians and 2012 medal hopefuls such as Jessica Ennis, tom Daley and rebecca addlington, the three-year bt road to 2012 project has also captured some of the faces behind the scenes of the Games. including the chairman of the organising committee (and double Olympic gold medallist) Lord Sebastian Coe, kit designer Stella McCartney and some less recognisable faces, this display takes you through the story of how the Olympic dream has become a reality. http://roadto2012.npg.org.uk www.britain-magazine.com

britain 2012 XXIX

BRITAIN 2012

london

The Royal Opera House has teamed with the Olympic Museum in Lausanne to create a free and unique one-off exhibition – The Olympic Journey: The Story of the Games. This immersive experience guides you through the history of the Summer Games, highlighting the remarkable feats of achievement that have characterised the competition. All Olympic torches and medals from London 2012 will be on display here, from 28 July to 12 August. www.ironbridge.org.uk

selkirk

forest football art and sport merge as a serene forest in the Scottish borders becomes home to a full-size football pitch. Forest Pitch sees two matches take place on 21 July in an event that evokes the spirit of the original Olympics. www.forestpitch.org

nationwide

in the director's chair

london

olympian proms the world-famous Proms has added Olympic fervour this year, with beethoven’s ninth Symphony being played to mark the opening day of the Games on 27 July (it contains the glorious Ode to Joy, which is traditionally played at the Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremonies). there is also the appearance of a new Olympic Fanfare, specially created by acclaimed Scottish classical composer James MacMillan. On top of all this, Wallace & Gromit even find time to have a new Proms adventure on 29 July. www.bbc.co.uk/proms XXX britain 2012

Some of britain’s most revered directors have been commissioned by the bbc and Film4 to create new films as part of the london 2012 Festival. the legendary, baFta-winning director Mike leigh has created an upbeat comedy-drama called A Running Jump, which shows how sport intertwines with everyday life for all the

members of an east london family.

The Swimmer, a poetic short film directed by lynne ramsay, follows a lone swimmer through britain’s scenic coastlines and inland waterways, accompanied by a powerful soundtrack of music composed by ralph Vaughan Williams and Frederick delius, as well as british pop.

What If by noel clark showcases urban sport such as free-running, while asif kapadia – director of the multi-awardwinning Fomula 1 documentary Senna – returns to his london roots to make The Odyssey, exploring the relationship between the capital and the Olympics. all four films are screened at selected british cinemas throughout the summer. http://festival.london2012.com

find out more about the london 2012 festival at http://festival.london2012.com www.britain-magazine.com

PhOtOS: lOndOn 2012/iStOck

journey through history

TQhorpe h ouse B&B N ualiTy

oTTiNgham

South Somerset Rural England at its best!

• Stunning views.

• Vibrant market towns and villages.

• Flavours to delight.

All just waiting to be explored.

Thorpe House, built in 1914, retains much of its classic Edwardian character, including period features and a mature garden. Our guests find the tranquil setting a welcome contrast after a day in the busy city of Nottingham, enjoy a truly luxurious experience with breakfast served in the privacy of your own room Rooms from £69 per night including breakfast Single occupancy: from £45 per night and £50 Saturday night.

Thorpe House, 7 Albermarle Road, Woodthorpe, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG5 4FE

E: info@thorpehousenottingham.co.uk • T: 0115 962 3424

www.thorpe-house.co.uk

For a FREE brochure call

01935 462781

Beaumont Estate RR June_July 12:Layout 1 24/05/2012 14:49 Page 1

www.discoversouthsomerset.com

Beaumont Estate RR June_July 12:Layout 1 24/05/2012 14:49 Page 1

Beaumont Estate; the perfect location for your Summer 2012 stay Situated in Old Windsor, with 40 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds and just 7 miles from Dorney Lake - the venue for the London 2012 Rowing and Kayak events. Many attractions nearby including Legoland, Thorpe Park, Windor Castle, River Thames Cruises, The Magna Carta Memorial and Windsor Great Park Just 5 minutes to M25, 10 minutes from M3 and M4, 15 minutes to Heathrow airport, 5 minutes to Windsor

Prices from £129 Bed & Breakfast

St St Paul’s.

Paul’s. An An inside inside view view St Paul’s. An inside view Inside Inside St St Paul’s Paul’s discover discover the the tombs tombs and and memorials memorials Inside St Paul’s discover the and memorials Insideof Stsome Paul’sof discover the tombs tombs and memorials the nation’s greatest heroes. of some of the nation’s greatest heroes. of some of the nation’s greatest heroes. of some of the nation’s greatest heroes.

••Inside The Cathedral •• The Crypt •• The Art St Paul’s discover the Monuments tombs and•• The memorials Cathedral Crypt Monuments Art •• The The Cathedral •• The The Crypt •• The The Monuments •• The The The Whispering Cathedral The Crypt The Monuments The Art Art of some of the nation’s greatest heroes.

Gallery • The views from the Golden • The Whispering Gallery • The views from the Golden Gallery Gallery •• The Whispering Gallery •• The from Golden Gallery The Whispering Gallery The views views from the the Golden Gallery Multimedia guides •• Guided •• Oculus -- 270° Multimedia guides Guided tours Oculus 270° cinema •• The Cathedral • The Crypt •tours The Monuments • Thecinema Art Multimedia guides • Guided tours • Oculus 270° cinema • Multimedia guides • Guided tours • Oculus - 270° cinema •Visit The Whispering Gallery • The viewsthan from the would Goldenexpect.

Gallery Paul’s discover Visit St St Paul’s and and discover more more than you you would expect.

St and more you would expect.

•Visit Multimedia guides Guided tours Oculus cinema Visit St Paul’s Paul’s and •discover discover more• than than you- 270° would expect.

Dinner supplement of £20 per adult, £7.95 per child and children under 5 eat free. *Rates based on two adults sharing, supplements apply for upgrades.

Subject to availability.

For more information or to book please call and quote ‘BEAUMONT1’ 01753 640000 or visit www.beaumont-estate-windsor.co.uk

Monday - Saturday 8.30am - 4pm

Monday Saturday 8.30am 4pm Visit St Paul’soccasions) and --discover more than you would expect. (except on special Monday --- Saturday 8.30am 4pm Monday 8.30am (except on special occasions) Monday - Saturday Saturday 8.30am -- 4pm 4pm (except on on special occasions) occasions) (except www.stpauls.co.uk (except on special special occasions)

www.stpauls.co.uk www.stpauls.co.uk www.stpauls.co.uk Monday - Saturday 8.30am - 4pm (except on special occasions)

www.stpauls.co.uk

www.britain-magazine.com

britain 2012 XXXI

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