National Exhibition Centre Birmingham - a building with a sign on it
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National Exhibition Centre Birmingham

4.3
·37k reviews·Marston Green, United Kingdom

A massive UK exhibition and entertainment complex hosting diverse events from trade shows to concerts and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During specific event dates

Experience the main draw of the NEC.

CrowdHigh
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National Exhibition Centre Birmingham - a building with a sign on it

National Exhibition Centre Birmingham

Best Time

During specific event dates

Experience the main draw of the NEC.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A massive UK exhibition and entertainment complex hosting diverse events from trade shows to concerts and family fun.

4.3
(37k reviews)

"Lovely to be back at NEC, the venue was fantastic and one of its strongest points."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Plan Your Route

The NEC is huge! Use internal shuttles or the monorail from the airport/station.

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save money and time by purchasing event tickets online in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Major Exhibitions & Shows

Major Exhibitions & Shows

Home to iconic events like Crufts, Spring Fair, and the Emergency Services Show. Experience the buzz of large-scale trade and consumer gatherings.

Indoor Funfair

Indoor Funfair

A family-friendly attraction offering rides and entertainment, often occupying large halls within the NEC complex.

Concerts & Live Events

Concerts & Live Events

The NEC Arena hosts major music artists and sporting events, offering a dynamic entertainment experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the NEC

The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) is vast! Plan your route within the complex, especially if attending a specific event. Utilize the internal shuttle buses or monorail from Birmingham Airport and International Station to save time and energy. Check the NEC website for event-specific maps and transport advice before you go.

Event-Specific Planning

The NEC hosts a huge variety of events, from trade shows like the Spring Fair TikTok to consumer events like the Emergency Services Show TikTok and even concerts. Always check the specific event's website for dates, times, ticket information, and any special instructions. Booking tickets in advance can often save money and time.

Best Times

When
During specific event dates
Why
Experience the main draw of the NEC.
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays outside major events
Why
Fewer crowds, easier navigation.
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings for concerts
Why
Catch live music and shows.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to visit our booth (4B04) #CVS #UK #BIRMINGHAM #EVERVOX
@evervox.official
2.8K likes • 22.4K views

🗺️ Plan Your Route

The NEC is huge! Use internal shuttles or the monorail from the airport/station. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save money and time by purchasing event tickets online in advance. TikTok

Come with us to the National Exhibition Centre to visit the Spring Fair 2023! An amazing experience and met so many amazing British-Made businesses👏🏼🇬🇧 #hopeandstory #britishmade #marketplace #madeintheuk🇬🇧 #fyp #springfair2023 #nec #marketing
@hopeandstory
802 likes • 6.5K views
Once again checking things out over at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham; more Amazing video here taken during the 2005 Max Power Live Show. All the video taken from within the Main Indoor Areas, showcasing plenty of the totally Maxxed motors of the time. This video once again coming from the ‘Siramalot69’ YouTube Channel; the full video originally posted to YouTube back in September ...
s1mags
114 likes • 1.6K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast exhibition halls. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Food & Drink Costs

Be prepared for high prices. Consider bringing your own snacks and water. Reddit

Birmingham International Station and NEC national exhibition centre #Birmingham #birminghamuk #nec
homegardeninguk
2 likes • 108 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Plan Your Route

The NEC is huge! Use internal shuttles or the monorail from the airport/station. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save money and time by purchasing event tickets online in advance. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast exhibition halls. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Food & Drink Costs

Be prepared for high prices. Consider bringing your own snacks and water. Reddit

📱 Check Event Schedule

Know which halls and stands to visit to maximize your time. TikTok

🚗 Parking Logistics

Parking is available but can be extensive. Follow signage and consider pre-booking. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(37k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The NEC is a vast and versatile venue praised for its excellent facilities and accessibility, particularly its monorail link from the airport and train station. Visitors appreciate the helpful staff and cleanliness during events. However, many find the food and drink prices to be excessively high, and some specific attractions or events within the NEC have received mixed reviews regarding their quality.

"It's a nice venue for all sorts of different exhibitions, it reminds me very much of Excel in London as it's close by to an airport and is a very spacious building that hosts all sorts of events.

Today I visited the indoor funfair and it was pretty swift experience.

Plenty of staff around and the venue was nice and clean."

Mujahid Ali

"Lovely to be back at NEC as not been in 16 years, the last time was for the Commercial Vehicle Show. This visit was for the Indoor Funfair and the venue was fantastic. Loved the shuttle bus, all the staff were great, everywhere was clean and tidy. In fact, the venue was one of the strongest points regarding our visit as the Funfair wasn't anywhere near as good as I was expecting it to be. It looked daft only occupying half of the hall and the rides were nothing out of the ordinary. The organisers blocked my profile for saying that on Facebook but they can't shut me up on here!"

Daniel Booth

"Overall NEC looks old, at least to me, dirty floors, doors looked weary... We went to Gravity auto show, and wasn't such a great experience, toilets were without paper and really smelly and dirty... Food and drink prices were really high for the location and the event, plus wasn't anything special..."

George Luputiu

What People Like

Spacious and clean venue
Helpful staff
Excellent transport links

What People Dislike

Expensive food and drink
Variable event quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The NEC is easily accessible by car, train, and air. Birmingham Airport (BHX) is adjacent to the NEC, with a free Air-Rail link to Birmingham International Station. From the station, a monorail connects directly to the NEC complex. For drivers, the NEC is located off Junction 6 of the M42 motorway. InstagramReddit

Yes, the NEC has extensive car parking facilities. Follow the signs upon arrival. Parking fees apply, and pre-booking is often recommended, especially during major events. Reddit

Absolutely. National Express coaches and local bus services stop at the NEC. Trains run frequently to Birmingham International Station, which is connected to the NEC via the monorail. Instagram

The NEC is a very large site. For travel between halls or to the train station/airport, utilize the free monorail service or the internal shuttle buses. Walking is also an option, but be prepared for significant distances. Reddit

Yes, the NEC is committed to accessibility. Accessible parking, ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets are available. It's advisable to check the specific event's accessibility information and contact the NEC in advance if you have specific needs. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most events at the NEC require tickets. This includes trade shows, consumer fairs, concerts, and the indoor funfair. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance online, as this can often be cheaper and guarantees entry. TikTok

Opening hours vary significantly depending on the event. Always check the specific event's schedule on the NEC website or the event organizer's page for accurate timings. TikTok

For some events, tickets may be available to purchase on the door, but this is not guaranteed and is often more expensive. It's best to check with the event organizer beforehand. TikTok

Yes, depending on the event, there can be various ticket types, including general admission, VIP packages, family tickets, and multi-day passes. Look for these options when booking. TikTok

Re-entry policies vary by event. Some events allow re-entry, while others do not. Always check the specific event's terms and conditions before leaving the venue. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The NEC hosts a vast array of events, including major trade shows (e.g., Spring Fair, LAMMA Instagram), consumer exhibitions (e.g., Crufts, Festival of Quilts Reddit), comic conventions (e.g., MCM Comic Con), sporting events (e.g., HYROX Instagram), concerts, and family attractions like the Indoor Funfair.Reddit TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the NEC has numerous catering outlets, cafes, and restaurants. However, food and drink prices are generally considered high. Many visitors opt to bring their own snacks and drinks to save money. Reddit

Facilities include restrooms, cafes, restaurants, ATMs, information desks, and cloakrooms. Specific amenities may vary depending on the event and the hall you are in. Reddit

Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the NEC complex, though connection strength can vary. TikTok

Charging points may be available in some cafes or designated areas, but it's advisable to bring a portable power bank to ensure your device stays charged throughout the day. :iphone:

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use at most events, but always check the specific event's policy. Some exhibitors may restrict photography of their stands or products. Instagram

The architecture of the NEC itself can be interesting, especially the main atrium. For event-specific photos, focus on the displays, crowds, and unique exhibits relevant to the show you're attending. TikTok

Professional photography or videography often requires prior permission from the NEC and the event organizer. Check their guidelines before bringing professional equipment. Instagram

Yes, personal photography of children at the Indoor Funfair is usually allowed, but be mindful of other visitors' privacy. Reddit

Photos often feature large exhibition stands, unique products, event highlights, and the sheer scale of the venue. Many also capture the atmosphere of specific shows like the Emergency Services Show TikTok or the Spring Fair.TikTok Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The NEC offers family-friendly attractions like the Indoor Funfair, which provides rides and entertainment for children. Reddit When attending larger exhibitions, look for dedicated family zones or activities that might be included. It's wise to check the specific event's offerings beforehand. Remember that the venue is vast, so keep a close eye on children and utilize any designated meeting points if you get separated. Bringing snacks and drinks can be a lifesaver for keeping little ones happy and managing costs. Reddit

For families traveling to the NEC, the monorail link from Birmingham International Station is a convenient and fun way to arrive, especially for younger children. Instagram Consider the age and interests of your children when choosing an event to attend. While some trade shows might be less engaging for kids, events like the Indoor Funfair or certain consumer shows are designed with families in mind. Reddit

💼 Business Travelers & Exhibitors

The NEC is a prime location for trade shows and business exhibitions. If you're exhibiting, ensure your stand is well-prepared and you've coordinated logistics for setup and breakdown. TikTok+1 Utilize the NEC's business services, including Wi-Fi and catering options. Networking opportunities are abundant at these events, so have your business cards ready and be prepared to engage with potential clients and partners. TikTokInstagram

For attendees, the proximity to Birmingham Airport and the direct train link make it easy to travel for short business trips. Instagram Plan your schedule to maximize your time at the exhibition, focusing on the exhibitors and seminars most relevant to your industry. The NEC hosts a wide range of sectors, from automotive Instagram and packaging Instagram to emergency services TikTok and home and giftware.TikTok Instagram

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

The NEC has a history of hosting automotive events, such as the Max Power Live Show Instagram and the Gravity Auto Show. These events showcase a wide array of vehicles, from classic cars to modified modern machines. If you're attending an automotive exhibition, expect to see impressive displays of engineering and design. Instagram

For those driving to the NEC, ensure you are aware of the parking arrangements for specific car shows, as they might differ from standard event parking. The venue's accessibility via major motorways makes it a convenient destination for car enthusiasts from across the UK. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The NEC as an Event Hub

The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham is one of the UK's premier event venues, hosting a staggering number of trade and consumer shows annually. Its sheer scale means it can accommodate multiple large-scale events simultaneously across its numerous halls. From the prestigious Crufts dog show to the bustling Spring Fair TikTok and industry-specific events like the Emergency Services Show,TikTok the NEC is a constant hive of activity. The venue's strategic location near Birmingham Airport and its own train station makes it highly accessible for both domestic and international visitors. InstagramReddit

Beyond traditional exhibitions, the NEC also features the Resorts World Arena (formerly Genting Arena and before that, the NEC Arena), which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and family entertainment. This dual functionality as both an exhibition space and an entertainment venue solidifies its status as a key destination for a wide range of audiences. The Indoor Funfair Reddit is another example of a consumer-focused attraction within the complex, offering a different kind of experience. TikTok

Navigating the NEC requires some planning. Its size can be overwhelming, so understanding the layout and utilizing the internal transport links, such as the monorail, is crucial for a smooth visit. The venue is constantly evolving, with recent developments including advancements in crowd monitoring technology using AI and Intel processors to manage visitor flow effectively. TikTok

Attending an Exhibition: Tips from the Community

Visiting an exhibition at the NEC can be an exciting but sometimes daunting experience. Many visitors emphasize the importance of planning your visit in advance. This includes checking the event schedule, identifying key exhibitors or attractions you want to see, and mapping out your route within the vast complex. For trade shows, having a clear objective, whether it's sourcing new products or networking, can help focus your time. TikTok+1

Budgeting for expenses is another common piece of advice. Food and drink prices within the NEC are frequently mentioned as being quite high, leading many to suggest bringing your own snacks and water to save money. Reddit Comfortable footwear is also a must, as you'll likely be on your feet for extended periods exploring the exhibition halls. Reddit

For those attending specific shows like the Emergency Services Show,TikTok+1 the opportunity to see new equipment and connect with professionals is a major draw. Similarly, events like the Spring Fair TikTok offer a chance to discover British-made products and meet business owners. The community often shares tips on how to make the most of these specific events, from finding particular stands to engaging with exhibitors. TikTok+1

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