The Mall is an iconic location in central London and a popular backdrop for formal ceremonies and major sporting events.
Its iconic red road will also give the effect of a giant red carpet for athletes participating in the road events that start and finish at the venue during the London 2012 Games.
The design and build
The Mall was created as a procession route in the early 20th century. It runs from Buckingham Palace at its western end to Admiralty Arch and on to Trafalgar Square at its eastern end, and was designed to welcome the royal family and visiting heads of state to Buckingham Palace.
Following the celebrations to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and birthday in June, there will be a period of 36 days in which to erect the temporary structures required for the Games. These include spectator seating, scoreboards, video boards, tents, cabins and generators.
After the Games
After the London 2012 Games, all the temporary structures will be dismantled and The Mall returned to its usual state.
London’s transport network will be very busy during the Games, so it’s important to plan your journey in advance and check for updates before you travel.
At its eastern end, The Mall runs on to Horse Guards Parade – venue for the London 2012 Beach Volleyball competition.
The Marathon distance was changed from 24 miles to 26.2 miles at the London 1908 Olympic Games so that the race could finish in front of the Royal Box.
