Plan your visit

We are excited to welcome you to the GPU Festival! To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable visit, please review the following information:

Q: Is there a map of the venue?

A: If you require a map of the venue please contact info@excel.london

Q: What is the nearest station to ExCeL?

A: You can plan your journey to ExCeL using our travel section

There are two DLR stations: Custom House for events taking place in the west of the venue and Prince Regent for those taking place in the east. We’d advise checking the details of your event before you travel so that you can alight at the most convenient station. 

Q: What is the nearest underground station to ExCeL?

The nearest underground station to the venue is Canning Town. Take the DLR (Dockland’s Light Railway) from Canning Town towards Beckton and alight at Custom House or Prince Regent DLR station depending on the nearest entrance for your event.

Alternatively, you can walk to the venue – ExCeL is approximately 20-minutes walking distance away from Canning Town underground station. Download ExCeL’s walking route map here.

 

Q: How do I get there by car?

A: Please use E16 1FR if you are using a sat nav system. Please note access to the car park under the venue is only via Royal Victoria Dock Road or the A112, click here to see the map.

  1. Can I find your venue using what3words?
  2. We are using what3words to help you find different places around the ExCeL estate such as the entrance to your event or the car park. what3words has given every 3m square in the world a unique three word address.

Click here for website

Download the what3words app

Android

iOS

Q: Are there any cycle racks?

A: Cycle racks are located by the west entrance, near the taxi rank. There is no charge to use the cycle racks.

Q: Where can I purchase an Oyster Card near the venue? 

A: You can buy an Oyster Card at any underground station, the closest to ExCeL London is Canning Town. Contactless credit and debit cards can also be used to travel on travel on tube, DLR, London Overground, buses and most National Rail services in London for the same price as an Oyster fare.

 

Q: When does the cable car run?

A: The cable car has a different timetable in winter

Winter         (1 October to 31 March)

Mon–Thurs     07:00-21:00

Friday               07:00-23:00 

Saturday          08:00-23:00

Sunday              09:00-21:00

 

General Queries

Pre Book your Parking Space

Planning on driving to ExCeL London?  The car park is available for pre-booked customers only during the GPU Festival Weekend.  If you are planning to drive, then please reserve your space ahead of your visit. To prebook please visit Official Parking – ExCel London (aeroparker.com)

  1. What is the price of parking?
  2. Parking is charged at £25.00 per day, per vehicle, per entry, with some exceptions. Please check with the organiser of your event to see if there are special arrangements when it comes to parking.

Q: Is there a map of the car park?

A: Please find a link to a map of the car park here.

  1. How many Blue Badge Spaces do you have?
  2. There are 88 blue badge spaces within the car park, located conveniently next to the entrances to the venue. 
  3. Is your blue badge parking free of charge? 
  4. To pre-book a blue badge parking space please visit the on-line booking platform here.Once you select the date(s) you would like to park which should then display the event you are planning to attend. Select the type of space you need and complete the form to secure your spot. 
  5. How can I get a refund?
  6. If you have pre-booked your parking space and no-longer require it, you can cancel your booking for a full refund within the “manage-my-booking” section of the booking portal. If you have paid for parking on-site (i.e., not pre-booked) please contact parkingonline@excel.londonwhere your refund request will be considered. Refunds will be considered within 5 working days of receipt of any email.
  7. There are no more blue-badge spaces available within the car park for pre-booking, what can I do?
  8. There are a total of 88 blue badge spaces within the car park. When booking your parking, if there are no blue-badge spaces available, then please contact parkingonline@excel.london. With best endeavours we will temporarily convert some standard parking spaces into additional blue badge spaces. 
  9. Am I able to charge my car at your venue?
  10. We are currently reviewing the provision of electric car charge points which will be available soon. To find the nearest charging points across London please visit https://www.zap-map.com/live/
  11. Do you have motorcycle parking and how much does it cost?
  12. Our motorcycle parking is free but cannot be pre-booked. Please enter the car park at the West entrance (E16 1FR). Please follow the one-way system and it will take you to the upper level where you will see designated motorcycle bays in Zone 2.

Pre-Booking

  1. How do I pre-book a parking space for my event?
  2. To pre-book your parking space please visit the on-line booking platform here. Please select the date(s) you would like to park which should then display the event you are planning to attend. Select the type of space you need and complete the form to secure your spot. 
  3. I do not know my arrival or exit times at the time of booking, what should I do? 
  4. Please continue with your booking with estimated times. Times can be amended at any time prior to your arrival for entry to the car park by using the manage my reservation link within the website. If you have arrived and wish to extend your booking, then this can also be amended within the manage my reservation link within the website. Please note, if you extend beyond the day of your attendance, you will be required to pay an additional fee as per the parking tariff applied.
  5. My event isn’t listed on the day I am attending?
  6. From time-to-time special arrangements are made for parking at a specific event.  If this is the case for the event, you are attending then the organiser will be given promotional code for visitors and exhibitors to use. If you don’t have this code, please contact the event organiser so that you can proceed with your booking. 
  7. I have made a booking, but now I am bringing a different vehicle, can I amend my vehicle registration on the booking? 
  8. You can amend the registration of your vehicle at any time following your booking by using the “manage my reservation” link on the website. An unlimited number of changes can be made, but your vehicle details must be correct at the time of arrival.
  9. I do not know my vehicle registration at the time of booking, how can I secure parking? 
  10. You can edit your booking at any time up to 24 hours before you arrive.Your vehicle registration details can be edited using the “Manage Reservation” link at the top-right corner of the booking platform. Please ensure that your vehicle registration details are correct prior to arriving on site to minimise any delay entering the car park.
  11. I have decided no longer to drive to my event, how can I cancel / get a refund?
  12. Your booking can be cancelled at any time using the “Manage Reservation” link, located in the top-right corner of the booking platform. Please note that this may be subject to a cancellation fee. 
  13. What if I decide to not pre-book my parking?
  14. Pre-booking your parking is the only way to guarantee a space in the venue’s car park. However, if you arrive without a booking, you will be allowed entry if there is capacity to park. You will need to pay for your parking prior to leaving the car park at either the payment stations, or by using the on-line payment platform.  There are QR codes in the car-park lobbies that direct you to the on-line payment platform.
  15. I am attending an event for multiple days, how should I book my parking?
  16. There are two options. You can either enter and exit the car park each day making a booking for each day or if you are intending to park your vehicle and leave it in the car park for your entire stay, then you can make just one booking for the entire period. 
  17. How do I obtain a VAT receipt?
  18. You can obtain your VAT receipt on the confirmation page (there’s a button where you can download your invoice once you have booked your parking), on ‘Manage Reservation’and there is also a link to this in your confirmation email.

Accessing the Car Park

  1. How do I get to the car park? 
  2. The car park can only be accessed by arriving via Royal Albert Way (A1020). Please use postcode E16 1FR or what3words ///cheer.events.began.There is no access to the venue car park from Western Gateway or Seagull Lane. 
  3. What do I do when I arrive at the car park?
  4. There are two entrances from Sandstone Lane. One for vehicles under 1.9m in height (the first entrance you come to) and one for vehicles between 1.9m and 2.8m (the second entrance). Stop your vehicle at the barriers, your vehicles registration will be read by the cameras, and if successfully read, the barriers will lift . A ticket will be produced if your vehicle registration cannot be read successfully. If a ticket is produced, please retain this for validation on exit.
  5. I have made a pre-booking but the barrier is not opening for me, what should I do?
  6. In the rare occurrence of the barriers not opening on your arrival, please use the intercom system at the barrier to contact a member of staff for assistance.
  7. Do you have blue badge parking bays and if so where are they located? 
  8. We have a number of blue badge parking bays that are spread across the car park.

The Orange under-venue car park has the following spaces:

Zone 2: 11 bays

Zone 3: 15 bays

Zone 4: 4 bays

Zone 8: 12 bays

Zone 9: 5 bays

Zone 13: 6 bays

Zone 14: 28 bays

Zone 15: 4 bays

See our car park map here for more details.

  1. What size are your blue badge bays?
  2. They are 5.90m x 3.60m.
  3. Where can I park my over height vehicle?
  4. Please note: the car park only permits vehicles up to a maximum of 1.9 meters in height. Please email parkingonline@excel.london if you require a taller blue badge parking space for your vehicle.

Payment & Exiting the Car Park

  1. How do I pay for car parking if I haven’t pre-booked?
  2. If you have not pre-booked parking, you will need to pay at the machine in the car park lobbies or using the QR code displayed in the car park that takes you to the on-line booking portal. Firstly, input your vehicle registration number and then the system will ask you which days you are planning to park and then ask you for payment. 
  3. I didn’t pay prior to reaching the exit barrier, what do I do?
  4. If you have not paid for your parking, the exit barrier will not raise to let you leave. The exit terminal will calculate the parking charge and you will be able to pay using the contactless payment point at the terminal. Once payment is received, the barrier will raise, and you can leave the car park.
  5. I paid for parking, but the barrier is not opening for me to leave, what do I do?
  6. Please use the intercom system at the barrier to speak with a member of staff. They will be able to confirm whether payment has been received, and if it has, will open the barrier to allow you to leave.
  7. I was provided a ticket on entry, how do I validate my parking?
  8. If you were provided with a ticket when you entered the car park, please scan the barcode at the payment machine, so you can pay for parking.

 

We are excited to announce that we have secured discounted rates for visitors attending the GPU Festival! To take advantage of these special rates and book your room, please visit GPU Festival.

We look forward to seeing you at the festival!

 

Q: Do you have ATMs?

A: There are one Note ATM on the left at level 0 N4/S4. There is also an ATM nearby at the Tesco Express.

Q: Is there anywhere I can change money?

A: There is a shop on level 0 at the bottom of the stairs near N4/S4 which sells a range of stationery items and has its own Bureau de Change.

Q: Do you have a foreign currency ATM?

 A: There is a Travelex ATM by the S11 entrance on the boulevard. 

 

Q: Do you recognise Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme? 

A: Yes we do, click here for more information.

Q: What is Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme? 

A: Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. Simply by wearing the sunflower lanyard, visitors are letting everyone know that they might need extra help, understanding, or just more time. , click here for more information.

Q: Do you have blue badge parking bays and where are they located? 

A: We have a number of blue badge parking bays that are spread across the car park.

The Orange under-venue car park has the following spaces:

  • Zone 2: 11 bays
  • Zone 3: 15 bays
  • Zone 4: 4 bays
  • Zone 8: 12 bays
  • Zone 9: 5 bays
  • Zone 13: 6 bays
  • Zone 14: 28 bays
  • Zone 15: 4 bays

See our car park map for more details.

Q: What size are your blue badge bays? 

A: They are 5.90m x 3.60m.

Q: Is your blue badge parking free of charge?

A: Blue badge holders can park for £25 per day in one of the clearly marked bays in the car park. There is an £80 fine without displaying a valid blue badge.

Q: Where can I park my height vehicle?

  1. Please note: the car park only permits vehicles up to a maximum of 1.9 meters in height. Please email parkingonline@excel.london if you require a taller blue badge parking space for your vehicle.
  2. Where are the disabled toilets?
  3. The disabled toilets are located at the following points:
  • Between South Halls S9/S10
  • Between North Halls N10/N11 on level 0
  • At the back of the North Halls N4/S4
  • South Gallery level 2 and the dock edge on level 0
  • Platinum Suite levels 2 and 3
  • Prince Regent walkway
  • Level 0 at the east end of the venue
  • Capital Suite levels 2 and 3

For more information, please contact info@excel.london or connect with us on Twitter. 

Q: Are dogs permitted at ExCeL London?

A: ExCeL welcomes all Guide and Assistance Dogs. Guide and Assistance Dog owners have important rights under the Equality Act 2010 meaning they are legally permitted to enter establishments where the public are admitted. 

If you wish to advise us of your planned visit, please contact info@excel.london.

  1. Are support animals permitted at ExCeL London?
  2. The wellbeing of our visitors is important to us and therefore we endeavour to welcome personal support animals to the venue during events. 

Some events may however have restrictions, where the organiser may have assessed that the specific nature of the event would not be a suitable environment for support animals. 

In order to support visitors wishing to bring personal support animals to the venue and to ensure smooth entry for those animals permitted, we ask visitors to contact the event organiser directly in advance via email, copying in info@excel.london. Organiser contact details can be found on the event website via our listings here.

Please be aware that welfare facilities for support animals are not available onsite and all owners will be fully responsible for the action of their animal, which will need to be kept under control and on a lead, harness, or in a pet carrier at all times.

Q: Are there food and beverages available at the festival?
Yes, a variety of food and beverage options will be available within the food court at the festival.

Q: Can I bring my own food and beverages?
Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed, except for baby food or necessary dietary items for medical reasons.

 

  • How can I purchase tickets for the festival?
    Tickets can be purchased online through the festival’s official website https://gpufestival.com/.
  • Can I buy tickets at the door?
    Yes, tickets will be available at the door. However, prices may be higher when purchased at the venue. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance, as they are typically cheaper and ensure guaranteed entry. For more details on pricing and availability, visit the festival’s official website.
  • What should I do if I lose my ticket?
    If you lose your ticket, contact sales@gpufestival.com as soon as possible. Provide your purchase details, and they will assist you in reissuing your ticket or providing a solution.
  • Can I get a refund if I am unable to attend the festival?
    The tickets will be non-refundable.
  • What is the Global Peace and Unity Festival?
    The Global Peace and Unity (GPU) festival is a festival aimed at promoting peace, unity, and understanding among diverse cultures and communities.
  • When and where is the festival held?
    The festival will be held in London, ExCel on the 19th and 20th of October 2024.
  • What is the dress code for the festival?
    There is no strict dress code for the Global Peace and Unity festival, but attendees are encouraged to dress modestly and comfortably. Cultural attire is welcomed and celebrated.
  • How can I stay updated on festival news and announcements?
    Stay updated by following the festival’s official social media channels, subscribing to the newsletter, or regularly checking the festival’s website (https://gpufestival.com/) for the latest news and announcements.
  • What should I do if I have a complaint or issue during the festival?
    If you encounter any issues or have a complaint during the festival, please visit the festival’s customer service desk or contact an event staff member. They are there to help and ensure you have a positive experience.
  • Is there a lost and found at the festival?
    Yes, a lost and found station will be set up at the festival. If you lose an item, visit the customer service desk or contact event staff for assistance. Found items will be held for a specified period after the festival.
  • Who are the speakers and performers at the GPU?
    The GPU features a range of speakers, including political leaders, religious scholars, activists, and cultural performers. Please check https://gpufestival.com/ for regular updates.
  • What kind of activities and workshops are available?
    The GPU offers a variety of activities, including speeches, panel discussions, cultural exhibitions, nasheeds, cultural performances, and workshops.
  • Are there any activities for children and families?
    Yes, the GPU includes family-friendly activities, including a funfair, kids’ zone, cultural performances, and interactive exhibitions designed for all ages.
  • Are there praying facilities available?
    Yes, there are praying facilities available at the GPU festival. The main prayer hall, located in the Platinum Suite, is available for attendees who wish to pray.
  • Are there any networking opportunities available?
    The festival provides numerous networking opportunities. Please visit https://gpufestival.com/ for further information.
  • Can I volunteer at the festival?
    To volunteer for the festival, please visit https://gpufestival.com/volunteer/ for further information.
  • How can I become an exhibitor or vendor at the festival?
    Potential exhibitors and vendors can usually apply through the festival’s official website (https://gpufestival.com/exhibit-with-us/), where guidelines, application forms, and contact information are provided.