Free Olympic events

Triathlon

Hyde Park will host the Olympic Triathlon course for 2012, and spectators can gather to watch the furious running, swimming and cycling for free. Athletes will run and cycle laps of the park, and swim in the famous Serpentine. The men's triathlon is on Saturday 4 August and the women's triathlon is on Tuesday 7 August.

Cycling

The Olympic Road Cycling events are open to all for free. Even better, they take place around some of London’s loveliest attractions. Beginning at The Mall, the route for the road races (28 and 29 July) passes Buckingham Palace, Richmond Park, Hampton Court Palace and The Natural History Museum. The time trials, (1 August) will take place at Hampton Court Palace.

Marathons and walking

Taking place on the 5 and 12 August, the marathons will see hoards of runners sweep through London. As they do, they’ll pass by St James Park, St Pauls Cathedral, the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament. The Race Walking events take place on 4 and 11 August, starting and finishing at The Mall and passing a fine collection of London sights on the way.

Sailing

The deep blue waters of Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour will play host to 10 sailing events over the course of 14 days during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. These free events will offer fans excitement and drama as they watch teams race in the beautiful but testing waters on the south coast of England.  Sailing takes place from 29 July-11 August.

Live sites

With large screens carrying live broadcasts of the Olympic events, you’ll be able to see all the action in at least 20 locations around the UK and get the best seat in the house to watch your favourite event. So wherever you are in the UK, you won’t be far from the Olympics!