Olympics 2024 highlights
Is there anybody else out there like me, who plonks themselves onto the sofa in an evening, snacky snack in one hand, mocktail in the other, pjs on and snuggled in a blanket, making comments at the tv like you're a professional athlete because the Olympics are on?
"Ooh gosh they over did that turn there didn't they?!
That splash was definitely too big for it to be a winning dive.
Is the horses leg supposed to move like that?
Bad extension that wasn't it.
What is she doing?
Why is he doing it like that?"
They have all definitely escaped my mouth at some point this week. Embarrassing for myself on my behalf, but I know I'm not the only one (haha!)
Speaking of the Olympics...
Did you know there is a free day out at the Olympic Park in Stratford?
Purpose-built for the Summer 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, the park offers an amazing diverse range of activities, events and days out - www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
I took Alfie there for the day not too long ago and we had such a lovely day out and it cost us next to nothing. This isn't an ad for the park, I just think it's wonderful we have this so close to us and for people to visit free of charge in an economy of struggle and missing days out to keep funds for basics.
Rivers, gardens and open spaces
Contrary to what you might think of when you hear "Olympic Park", there is so much more on offer than seeing the pool, indoor tracks and stadium. The park itself is home to a whole little world - big gardens and open spaces to sit down, enjoy the sun and eat your picnic; waterways and rivers, where you can choose to spend a little and rent a kayak or join a boat tour; the beautiful Blossom Garden, a stunning display of blossom trees to create a space for reflection and memorial; playgrounds, including the Tumbling Bay Playground - a huge play area blending into the nature surrounding, creating hours and hours of fun.
You could spend a whole day here and still not see half of what there is.
Transport
As far as travelling to and from the venue, this was surprisingly simple for us. It is easily accessible using tube or train, or for those choosing to drive there are numerous car parks you can use that are £1/hour for members or £2/hour for non-members.
Cultural Experience
It's lovely to have this not far from our doorstep - the London 2012 Olympics marked a special part in what will be our history and it felt quite important and emotional to visit there, knowing the dreams that were conquered for others. It's amazing to see so many countries and people unite and become one, to have some good to focus on amongst all the hard stuff going on in the world. This little park in this little corner of the world once hosted that.
Immerse yourself in our own experience
As you can see from the pictures, we really had a fun filled day and saw so much. We actually ended up having the park practically to ourselves for a while and really relished in the peace. We definitely recommend you try this one, especially if you're on a budget or just want a cheap/free day out to cure that cabin fever.