Discovering Places is one of the ‘Major Projects’ for the Cultural Olympiad, a four year cultural festival in the run-up to the 2012 Games to celebrate the richness and diversity of Britain’s arts, culture and heritage. Discovering Places is alongside projects being led by such organisations as the Arts Council, BBC, MLA (Museums, Libraries and Archives), Legacy Trust, UK Film Council and LOCOG themselves.

Discover the Greenway event, East London.

Discovering Places is a three-stranded programme led by Heritage Link which introduces a new generation to the hidden places and spaces of the UK. This programme is being developed in partnership with the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) and Natural England.

Historic environment
Building on the tradition of Open House in London, and on Heritage Open Days/Doors Open around the country to open up both the historic and the new, making hidden architectural treasures accessible, uncovering the buildings that express Britain’s diverse culture, and creating new audiences for heritage and architecture. Various themes will be explored, all intended to engage young people and those who are not currently taking advantage of our rich heritage. There will be two key ‘festivals of access’: in Autumn 2011 we will see the largest ever co-ordinated opening of the UK’s buildings, archaeological sites and other heritage locations; and in the Spring of 2012 we aim to provide a compelling backdrop for the London 2012 domestic Torch Relay.

Natural environment
connect new audiences to the inspiration of the UK’s natural environment for culture and sport. Natural England will lead co-ordinated activity by the organisations managing our rich and diverse natural environment together with creative and sporting partners. Open Out to Nature will join with Access All Areas during Autumn 2011 and for the London 2012 domestic Torch Relay.

Built environment
a programme of activities being organised by CABE to showcase the regeneration and architectural transformation at the London 2012 Olympic Park and its relevance to neighbourhoods across the UK. Events, exhibitions and a website will help make young people and communities more aware of changes to their own area.
If you are interested finding out more or participating in Discovering Places , please contact Catharine Bull

For more information about the Cultural Olympiad visit http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/cultural-olympiad/index.php