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Travel & Accommodation

Help and advice on how to get to SQLBits.

With SQLBits 2025 taking place in the Capital Suite (on the third floor at the East end of the building) at the London ExCeL; we’ve gathered some handy tips to help you query your way to the venue and sort out hotel bookings with no errors!

Accommodation

Accommodation is your home on the go – a comfy space where you rest and recharge during your travels. Here's our suggestions...

As SQLBits 2025 will be held at the London ExCeL, we have curated a list of recommended options, ranging from the closest to the furthest from the venue.

There’s plenty more if none of these take your fancy; why not check out what Booking.com has in the area?

Confirmed speakers can book accommodation through SQLBits and will be sent full details after selection. The speaker hotel options are either the London Docklands Premier Inn or the DoubleTree By Hilton London Excel. If you have submitted to speak and are waiting to hear if you’ve been selected, but also want to book your accommodation, we suggest booking a room with flexible terms. This is because we only host speakers in one of our two speaker hotels, and will not be able to cover the cost of accommodation at any other hotel. For more information visit the Speak page.

 

Travel

Whether you're arriving from afar or just a short distance away, our venue is accessible by air, rail, or road. Should you have any mobility needs, please reach out to us so we can assist you in making your way to SQLBits 2025.

Our venue, the London ExCeL, is conveniently connected by the Elizabeth line and three DLR stations, along with multiple bus stops and a cable car station.

Plan Your Journey: Utilise Transport for London’s journey planner to ensure a smooth trip. The Elizabeth Line and DLR are the quickest routes to ExCeL. Disembark at Prince Regent for the entrance to Capital Suite and SQLBits.

National Rail Connections: London is seamlessly connected by rail to all major cities in the UK. It’s a quick journey from any of London’s rail stations to ExCeL. Transport for London’s journey planner.

Travel Zones and Payment: London’s public transport network is divided into nine travel zones. For the best travel value, purchase a visitor Oyster card, Travelcard, or use a contactless payment card. Find out more about contactless payment.

For more information on getting to the London ExCeL, see here. 

Take the scenic route to ExCeL London by river or cable car and turn your trip to the venue into a tour of the city. Enjoy breathtaking views and a unique travel experience.

All exhibitors and visitors to ExCeL can use the cable car for just £3 per single fare. To redeem this exclusive discount, simply present your confirmation email or ticket from SQLBits 2025

For more information on getting to the London ExCeL, see here. 

London is one of the most well-connected cities globally, making it easy for international visitors to reach ExCeL London. Here are your options for flying into the city:

Airports: London is served by six major airports: London City, Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Luton, and Southend. Each airport offers a range of international flights, ensuring you can find a convenient route to London.

International Trains: You can also travel to London via international train services from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The Eurostar is a popular choice, providing a fast and comfortable journey from major European cities.

International Ferries: For those coming by sea, direct ferry services are available from various European ports. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to arrive in London.

For more information on getting to the London ExCeL, see here. 

The taxi drop-off location is conveniently situated at the west entrance of the venue. For a more sustainable journey, London offers a fleet of electric taxis. Simply use the postcode E16 1XL when planning your route.

For more detailed directions and information, click here for our Campus Travel Map.

Taxi Suggestions:

To guarantee a parking space at ExCeL London, we highly recommend pre-booking. Pre-book your parking here.

Navigation Details: If you’re using satellite navigation, please enter the postcode E16 1FR for the car park entrance. Alternatively, you can use what3words ///cheer.events.began to navigate directly to the location.

Blue Badge Holders: Blue badge holders can park for £25.00 per day in clearly marked bays within the car park. Please ensure your blue badge is visibly displayed to avoid an £80 fine.

Vehicle Height Restrictions: The venue car park permits vehicles up to a maximum height of 1.9 meters. There are limited spaces available for over-height vehicles up to 2.8 meters.

Motorcycle Parking: Motorcycle parking is free and cannot be pre-booked. Upon entering the car park, please follow the one-way system to the upper level where designated motorcycle bays are located in Zone A.

For more information, see here. 

Cycle Racks: ExCeL London offers free cycle racks located at the west entrance taxi drop-off point, underneath the DLR walkway. For planning your cycling route, check the TfL Go app for optimal paths for all or part of your journey.

Cycle Superhighway Route: We are conveniently close to Cycle Superhighway Route CS3, which runs from Barking to Tower Gateway. Plan your journey to take advantage of this dedicated cycling route.

IFS Cloud Cable Car: You can bring your bike on the IFS Cloud cable car at any time and at no extra cost. This scenic option adds an enjoyable element to your journey. Find out more about taking your bike on public transport.

Bikes on Public Transport: Bikes are permitted on the DLR during off-peak hours: Monday to Friday until 07:30, between 09:30-16:00, and after 19:00, as well as all day during weekends and Bank Holidays. For detailed information, find out more about taking your bike on public transport.