Sports: Cycling - road

A former royal residence based on the banks of the River Thames in south-west London, Hampton Court Palace will provide a spectacular setting for the Road Cycling Time Trial.

The palace also boasts a rich sporting history: It is home to the oldest surviving real tennis court in England – one of fewer than fifty real tennis courts in the world. There is also an 18-hole golf course within the palace grounds.

The design and build

The Hampton Court Palace that exists today was largely built in the 16th and 17th centuries. It has housed many famous kings and queens over the years, most notably Henry VIII.

London 2012 will install various temporary structures at Hampton Court Palace for the Road Cycling Time Trial, including spectator facilities, the cyclist start ramp and the 'hot seat' – where the leading rider sits until another they are beaten by another rider.

After the Games

Hampton Court Palace will continue to be a major tourist attraction and home to a number of exhibitions.