The area also boasts the Rex concert hall which regularly
plays host to the biggest stars in reggae and hip-hop, and the
brand-new children's centre Discover - a unique, interactive space
designed for kids to explore their imagination and enjoy new
sensory, creative and hands-on experiences. Further south, in
Silvertown, Newham plays host to the country's last traditional
music hall - bringing a taste of the old East End into the 21st
century.
Newham also has lots to offer in the way of sports and
entertainment. Cinemas offering everything from the latest
blockbusters to the very best of Bollywood have recently been
joined by the prestigious ExCel Centre in the heart of Docklands.
The new restaurants and shopping opportunities are great side-lines
to ExCel's main business - bringing international exhibitions to
East London. Recent events include the International Boat Show,
Homes Overseas exhibition and the council's own Big Sunday
extravaganza.
Not only is Newham home to West Ham United Football Club which has
been producing top-class football and international talent - from
Bobby Moore to Frank Lampard - for the best part of a century, but
it offers a wealth of opportunity for those who want to take part
in sport. From bowling to cycling to horse riding - Newham's got
it. The completion of a £1.8million refurbishment programme for the
borough's leisure centres and the revitalisation of the docks, mean
the borough is now top of the list for anyone interested in
swimming, sailing and water sports. And by 2012, of course, Newham
will have some of the best sports facilities in the country when
seven years of Olympic development finally bears fruit.
The borough has a number of parks offering sports and leisure
facilities. From football to tennis, visitors can burn off some
energy playing the game of their choice. For those looking for a
less strenuous pursuit, East Ham Nature Reserve has nature trails
teeming with local wildlife including foxes, owls and kestrels.
With wheelchair access and a tapping board for white stick users,
it's easily accessible for all visitors.
Newham's newest green space, Thames Barrier Park, offers waterside
views over the Thames, a stunning fountain for splashing games in
summer and a relaxing cafe for all year round sustainance. In
contrast, East Ham's Central Park offers formal rose gardens, a
bowling green and rare species tree trail. During the summer the
park is home to a weekend long festival of concerts, Under the
Stars, and also Newham's Town Show, a spectacular fair for all the
family to enjoy.
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