What is it?
So what did we get for our £8.77bn? In addition to an expectation-busting Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012, there's the small matter of those remaining buildings and all that parkland, now officially known as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The immaculate park was first opened to the public in summer 2013, a year after the Games, their paths and waterways enhanced by the new Timber Lodge Café. Next came the Zaha Hadid-designed Aquatics Centre, which is open for public swimming and diving sessions, followed by the VeloPark, home to road, track, BMX and mountain biking, and the southern section of the park. The latter comprises all the remaining parkland, including children's play areas, four walking trails and a couple of dozen public artworks.
To the north, the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre has two superfast hockey pitches and ten tennis courts (four indoor, six outdoor) – you can just turn up and play, although it might be advisable to book ahead.
The retooled Olympic Stadium (renamed the London Stadium) opened most recently, and now plays host to West Ham as well as various athletics championships and big concerts. But the Olympic Park isn’t finished yet. Work is ongoing around its fringes on a crop of new cultural destinations, housing and other bits and bobs.
Why go?
To take in the greenery and look at all the fancy Olympics buildings in London’s newest postcode, E20 (playfully shared with the fictional Walford of ‘EastEnders’ fame).
Don’t miss:
The park is fringed by pretty canals lined with barges and boats that double up as bars and restaurants. They’re the perfect place to head for an afternoon pint on a sunny day or hang out with friends into the night.
Time Out tip:
The Olympic Park never gets boring, it’s full of hidden corners, so each visit brings something new. I always make time to stroll through the Great British Garden, a twee, but pretty, little spot that’s full of woodland plants and a pond teaming with wildlife. It’s a quiet spot to eat a picnic away from the crowds.
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