Heading to the UK Games Expo for the first time? You’re in for a treat. It’s a weekend packed with board games, roleplaying sessions, miniature battles, and more game-related shopping than your wallet can probably handle. But to make the most of it, a little preparation goes a long way. With the Expo 2025 now only 10 weeks away. Here’s what you need to know.
Wear Comfortable Shoes – Seriously
You might not realise it now, but you’ll be on your feet for hours. The NEC is huge, and there’s a lot of walking between halls, demo tables, and retail stands. Trainers or anything cushioned will make a world of difference. If you rock up in fancy shoes or those boots that “look great but kill your feet,” you’ll regret it by midday. Being uncomfortable can really ruin the expo for you. If you only take one thing from this blog, make sure it’s this one.
Take Some Cash – Just in Case
Most stands take card, but NEC Wi-Fi isn’t always the most reliable. A bit of cash means you won’t miss out if the signal is playing up. It also helps keep spending in check—there’s nothing like a physical cash budget to remind you not to go overboard on the latest sensation. If you’re anything like me it’s super easy to spend more than you planned.
Want to Demo Something? Book Early
Spotted a new game you’re desperate to try? Some publishers allow you to book demo slots in advance, and if they do, take them up on it. Otherwise, get to the stand early and ask. By midday, the best tables are booked solid.
Stay Hydrated – Bring a Water Bottle
Gaming is thirsty work, and you don’t want to be shelling out for a bottle of water when there are refilling stations dotted around. A reusable bottle saves cash and keeps you going through all those intense gaming sessions.
Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds
By mid-morning, it gets busy. By early afternoon, it’s heaving. If you want to browse without shuffling through a sea of people, get there early. You’ll also have a better shot at snagging limited stock before it sells out.
Food – Good but Pricey
The food inside the NEC is decent, but it’s not cheap. If you’re happy to splash out, great. If not, bringing your own lunch isn’t a bad idea. Alternatively, check out the food trucks near the Hilton—often some of the best options on site.
Make Use of Open Gaming
Want to escape the crowds? The open gaming areas are brilliant. Bring a game, join a table, or try out something new with strangers-turned-friends. It’s one of the best ways to experience the expo outside of the bustling trade halls.
Avoid FOMO Buying
It really is tempting to grab everything in sight, especially when you see people snapping up the latest hotness. But take a breath—some deals are great, others not so much. Prices on retailer stands vary, and you might find the same game cheaper a few tables down. If it’s an exclusive, that’s different, but otherwise, shop smart.
Driving? Book Parking and Leave Early to Arrive Early
If you’re coming by car, pre-book your parking. The NEC gets jam-packed, and arriving early avoids a stressful hunt for a space and a long queue to get in the car park which builds up a long time before doors.
Pack Hand Sanitiser and Deodorant
No one likes con-crud. Between shaking hands, rolling dice, and browsing, germs spread fast. A small bottle of sanitiser is a must. And deodorant? It’s basic con etiquette—please, don’t be that person.
Don’t Be a Dick
Simple rule: Everyone is there to have fun. Be kind, be patient, and respect personal space. No one wants their expo ruined by someone being rude or inconsiderate. This includes being mindful of any backpacks you’re planning to fill with games and goodies.
Check for Convention-Only Deals (But Shop Around)
Some publishers offer great convention-only prices on their own games. However, general retailers may have wildly different prices on the same game. If you’re making a big purchase, check a few stands first. Often the best deals are found on the Sunday afternoon as retailers cut prices to avoid having to ship them back agian.
Don’t Skip the Craft Sellers
Beyond the games, the craft stalls are full of amazing, one-of-a-kind items—handmade dice, gaming accessories, artwork, and more. I always make a point to browse them; you’ll find stuff you won’t see anywhere else.
Saturday Afternoon? Avoid the Trade Halls
If you’re there for multiple days, try not to hit the trade halls on Saturday afternoon—it’s peak chaos. That’s a great time to check out open gaming or events instead.
Booking a Sit-Down Meal? Plan Ahead
Resorts World has some great places to eat, but if you want a proper sit-down meal in the evening, book in advance. By the time you think about food, everyone else has had the same idea.
Staying Over? Consider Birmingham City Centre
Hotels around the NEC are pricey. Staying in central Birmingham and taking the train in can save money and only adds about ten minutes to your journey. This will give the added benefit of more food choices after the gaming halls have closed.
Check Events Before You Travel
Tournaments, RPG sessions, live shows—many events require pre-booking and sell out months in advance. If there’s something you really want to do, book it as early as possible.
Make use of the cloakrooms
While there is shop and drop inside the halls these are usually claimed within tghe first 8 seconds of the expo each day. I generally make use of the cloakroom which is well priced and not much further to walk. It saves me having to carry everything all day.
Final Thought
The UK Games Expo is a fantastic weekend for any tabletop fan. Plan a little, pace yourself, and most importantly, have fun. See you at the tables!