From July 27 to August 12 "Imagination – Discover the Danish Spirit" will invite the public to sample the Danish way of life with traditional food, drink and entertainment.

The event, which will include a replica 17 metre-long Viking ship, is being organsied by VisitDenmark.

One of country's two main broadcasters, TV2, will also cover the Olympics from the Tower Hamlets base.

Action from the Olympics will be shown on a giant screen while the Dickens Inn, a former brewery dating back to the 18th century attached to the Docks, will be turned into a Danish-style pub during the Games. 


"The Olympic Games touches everybody's heart worldwide," said Henrik Kahn, the director of VisitDenmark UK.

"In addition to that, London itself has always been a magnet for visitors both from the UK and abroad and during these magical international Games, it will be even more so.

"On an area of 680sqm, Denmark will have a unique chance to show the world the best and the variety of what we can offer anyone thinking of visiting our country as a tourist.

"This is not a come-and-watch event, instead it will be a place for a fun day out where visitors can engage in the activities, try and buy and have some fun whilst finding out about our country, from its Viking past to its green and environmentally friendly nation of today.

"It will be good for Danish businesses too, as we also provide areas for business meetings, exhibitions and product presentations, all in a fun, interactive and Danish way."

St Katharine Docks' history as a major shipping destination dates back to 1828 but it was badly damaged by German bombing during World War Two.

It eventually ceased to operate as a commercial operation in 1969 because of its inability to deal with large ships and has been reinvented as a leisure complex and place for small yachts to moor. 

Ben Walford from Prestbury Investments, which operates St Katharine Docks, was excited by the prospect of welcoming the Danes during the Olympics.

"We are delighted to welcome Denmark to St Katharine Docks as part of our London 2012 celebrations," he said.

"The Docks' stunning environment next to the Tower of London will offer a spectacular backdrop for people to come and visit to experience the very best of Danish culture, right in the heart of London.

"We are working and planning with the local authorities to provide the best country showcase during the Olympics.

"This is just one of a number of events being held at the St Katharine Docks this summer and will help ensure that we are a part of London's celebrations of the Games from our own unique central London waterside location."

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