Despite the London Olympia taking its place as one of the UK’s premier exhibition centres, many guests at the Hotel Amsterdam on Earls Court Road still fondly remember the former Olympic Games venue known as the Earls Court Exhibition Centre for its role in hosting everything from the Brit Awards to the Crufts Dog Show.

Indeed, one of the more common questions we’re asked after guests have passed the iconic venue en route to our hotel, is whether there’s anything going on there that they can check out whilst they’re staying with us.

The answer, thankfully, is always yes. Though mostly known these days as the London home of numerous trade fairs, the London Olympia still hosts an array of special events open to the public. Below, we’ve picked out just some of our favourites taking place this May and June 2016.

Art16

May 19th – 22nd 2016

The biggest international arts festival in London, Art16 showcases galleries and exhibition pieces from 40 countries, more than any other art fair of its type in the world.

Now in its fourth year, our team enjoy taking the walk from our Earls Court hotel to marvel at impressive pieces from places such as New York and New Delhi, Russia and Romania, Hong Kong, Italy, France and more.

Highlights of this year’s Art16 festival include the First Night celebration on May 19th, where you’ll have the chance to mingle with top artists and passionate art lovers alike, and talks from the likes of journalist Dylan Jones, artist Kenny Schachter and a host of other well-known names from the art world.

The London International Antiquarian Book Fair

May 26th – 28th 2016

From art to literature next, as the London Olympia plays host to an event that we absolutely recommend you stop by at least once during your stay in Earls Court.

After all, where else would you have the opportunity to hold in your hands ancient artifacts, medieval manuscripts, and some of the rarest, most sought after books in the world.

Family-friendly workshops, expert talks and guided tours make up this three day event which promises to fascinate literature lovers, history buffs, and even the simply curious.

The House Fair

June 22nd – 25th 2016

We’ll be the Olympia this summer looking for some inspiration to take back to our hotel on Earls Court Road. If you come along and join us, you’ll be treated to presentations from award-winning designers like Sue Timney, an array of innovative new interior design products, and stunning, unique gifts from a selection of boutique stalls.

Prefer just to simply relax and take it all in? The Louis Roederer Champagne Bar, a focal point of this year’s annual London House Fair, is just the thing for you.

Spirit of Summer Fair

June 22nd to 25th 2016

Running simultaneously with the aforementioned House Fair, the Spirit of Summer event is a highlight of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre’s programme of public events.

Almost 500 independent boutiques will be on hand, offering up everything from home and garden furniture and accessories, gorgeous summer fashion ensembles, and delicious food and drink perfect for the season.

A one-of-a-kind shopping experience isn’t the only thing you’ll find at this House & Garden magazine organised event. A number of Summer Living workshops, gourmet foods, and inspiring talks from leading designers also make this one of the Olympia’s most anticipated events of the season.