England: Beach volleyball in the shadow of Big Ben? Yes, and other Olympic events next door to London historic sites
There is no way to ignore the towering cupola and arched windows, the 18th century architecture all around.
Then comes another surprise — bells tolling from Big Ben just a few blocks away.
It makes sense that beach volleyball players have felt a little out of place as they move into their new home for the 2012 London Olympics, a trio of sand courts set amid historic government and military buildings in the heart of the city.