ExCeL Exhibition Centre

The ExCeL Exhibition Centre is a large purpose built exhibition centre situated in the Royal Docks area of London’s redeveloped Docklands. The centre opened in November 2000 and its name is formed from the words Exhibition, Centre and London.

Excel’s site covers over 100 acres (400,000 m²) and is located on the north quayside of the Royal Victoria Dock. Whilst this dock closed to commercial traffic in 1981, it is still accessible to shipping.

The centre’s waterfront location is used to advantage when it hosts the annual London Boat Show, with visiting vessels able to moor alongside the exhibition centre; for example the 2005 show was visited by HMS Sutherland.

The exhibition building itself consists of two column free rectangular halls of 32,500 m² each to either side of a central boulevard containing catering facilities and information points. The halls can be subdivided for smaller events. There are also a number of function rooms. A temporary hall can be added on part of the car park when required, as it is for the London Boat Show.