The 70-day torch relay started in Land 's End , Cornwall , and will finish in London . The flame will pass within 10 miles of 95 % of the U.K. population along the route . Ben Ainslie , who has won three Olympic golds in sailing , was the first runner . The flame was lit on May 10 at ancient Olympia , in Greece , birthplace of the torch .
The 70-day torch relay started in Land 's End , Cornwall , and will finish in London . The flame will pass within 10 miles of 95 % of the U.K. population along the route . Ben Ainslie , who has won three Olympic golds in sailing , was the first torchbearer . The flame was lit on May 10 at ancient Olympia , in Greece , birthplace of the Games .