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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the main draw of the NEC.
National Exhibition Centre Birmingham
Best Time
Experience the main draw of the NEC.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A massive UK exhibition and entertainment complex hosting diverse events from trade shows to concerts and family fun.
"Lovely to be back at NEC, the venue was fantastic and one of its strongest points."
🗺️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Concerts & Live Events
The NEC Arena hosts major music artists and sporting events, offering a dynamic entertainment experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the NEC
Event-Specific Planning
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ 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.
👟 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.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ 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.
👟 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.
📱 Check Event Schedule
Know which halls and stands to visit to maximize your time.
🚗 Parking Logistics
Parking is available but can be extensive. Follow signage and consider pre-booking.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The NEC hosts a vast array of events, including major trade shows (e.g., Spring Fair, LAMMA
), consumer exhibitions (e.g., Crufts, Festival of Quilts ), comic conventions (e.g., MCM Comic Con), sporting events (e.g., HYROX ), concerts, and family attractions like the Indoor Funfair.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.
Facilities include restrooms, cafes, restaurants, ATMs, information desks, and cloakrooms. Specific amenities may vary depending on the event and the hall you are in.
Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the NEC complex, though connection strength can vary.
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.
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.
Professional photography or videography often requires prior permission from the NEC and the event organizer. Check their guidelines before bringing professional equipment.
Yes, personal photography of children at the Indoor Funfair is usually allowed, but be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
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
or the Spring Fair.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. 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.
💼 Business Travelers & Exhibitors
For attendees, the proximity to Birmingham Airport and the direct train link make it easy to travel for short business trips. 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 and packaging to emergency services and home and giftware.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The NEC as an Event Hub
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 is another example of a consumer-focused attraction within the complex, offering a different kind of experience.
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.
Attending an Exhibition: Tips from the Community
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. Comfortable footwear is also a must, as you'll likely be on your feet for extended periods exploring the exhibition halls.
For those attending specific shows like the Emergency Services Show, the opportunity to see new equipment and connect with professionals is a major draw. Similarly, events like the Spring Fair 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit