How do I book tickets?

Tickets are available online via See Tickets. Booking in advance is strongly recommended – not just because it guarantees your place, but because early bookers get the best prices, and the first 9,500 bookers receive a free cookbook

What are the ticket prices?

Adult tickets cost £25 (£23.25 + booking fee) on Thursday, Friday and Sunday, or £26 (£24.50 + booking fee) on Saturday. Children aged 5 to 17 are £6.75 (£5 + booking fee) on any day. Children aged 0 to 4 are free. Adult VIP tickets cost £101.75 (£100 + booking fee) on Thu/Fri/Sun, or £106.75 (£105 + booking fee) on Saturday (VIP available to guests aged 18+ only)

Is there a booking fee?

A booking fee of £1.75 applies per ticket

When and where is the Festive Good Food Show?

The Festive Good Food Show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from 26 – 29 November 2026

What are the opening times?

The show is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 9.30am to 5.00pm on Sunday

What's included in my general admission ticket?

Your ticket gives you full access to the show floor, all free stages (including the Festive Kitchen, Christmas Challenge Stage and the Let's Talk Good Food Stage), the Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre browsing area, all 350+ exhibitors, and your free welcome gifts on arrival – including your exclusive show recipe booklet and a free gingerbread man. Big Kitchen seats, the Cheese Hub, Kitchen Tales, Fabulous Food Finds tasting sessions, the Christmas Table workshops and the restaurant are available to book separately

Are there group discounts?

Yes – groups of 10 or more can save up to 25%. To start a no-obligation reservation, complete the group booking enquiry form

Is the Festive Good Food Show suitable for children?

Absolutely – families are very welcome. Children aged 0 to 5 go free throughout the show. Children aged 6 to 17 are £6.75 (£5 + booking fee) every day. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult at all times

Is the NEC accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes. All levels of the NEC are accessible to wheelchair users via ramps and lifts. The Atrium and piazza entrances have automatic doors. If travelling by train, disembark at Birmingham International Station and follow the skywalk to the NEC

I am registered as disabled – am I entitled to a free carer ticket?

Yes. Any visitor who is registered disabled and purchases a ticket is entitled to bring a carer free of charge. Simply add an essential carer ticket at the time of booking for each visitor with a registered accessibility requirement. Please bring proof of eligibility on the day – a Blue Badge, Freedom Pass, DLA letter or PIP letter will all be accepted

BBC - Good Food Show Winter 2026

Event overview

Overview

The Festive Good Food Show is the UK's ultimate Christmas foodie show, bringing together top chefs, experts, and over 350 handpicked artisan producers and big brands under one roof at the NEC Birmingham. The event is packed with live cooking demonstrations, hands-on workshops, tasting theatres, and festive shopping, all designed to inspire and delight food lovers ahead of the Christmas season.

Highlights include the Big Kitchen theatre with celebrity chefs, the Festive Kitchen for practical cooking tips, the Cheese Hub, the Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre, and the Christmas Challenge Stage. Visitors can also enjoy free samples, grab lunch from a variety of food-to-go options, and shop for unique festive products.

The show offers general admission, VIP packages, and subscriber-exclusive benefits, with tickets now on sale.

TL;DR

1The Festive Good Food Show (formerly BBC Good Food Show Winter) runs 26–29 November 2026 at the NEC Birmingham.
2Over 350 handpicked artisan producers and big brands offer festive food, drink, and gifting products.
3Live cooking theatres feature top chefs and experts, including the Big Kitchen, Festive Kitchen, and Kitchen Tales Q&A.
4Specialist zones include the Cheese Hub, Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre, and Christmas Challenge Stage.
5VIP packages offer front-block Big Kitchen seating, fizz, exclusive lounge access, parking, and a goody bag.

Why visit

The Festive Good Food Show is the ultimate Christmas foodie day out, offering a unique opportunity to taste, shop, and learn from the best in the food industry. With over 350 handpicked producers offering free samples, you can discover new festive flavours, artisan products, and gift ideas. Watch top chefs and experts cook live on the Big Kitchen and Festive Kitchen stages, picking up practical tips, clever shortcuts, and festive inspiration. Participate in hands-on workshops at the Cheese Hub, Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre, and Christmas Table. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with live music, dining options, and exclusive VIP experiences. Early bird tickets start at £25, and the first 9,500 bookers receive a free cookbook. The show is family-friendly, with free entry for under-5s and discounted tickets for children.

Why exhibit

Exhibiting at the Festive Good Food Show puts your brand in front of 45,000+ festive food lovers who come specifically to shop and discover new food, drink, kitchen, and gifting brands. The show is the crown jewel of the Good Food Shows calendar, attracting a fiercely loyal, high-spending consumer demographic who love to cook, entertain, and seek out unique produce. With over 350 handpicked artisan producers and big brands, the event offers an unparalleled platform for brands of every size to build consumer relationships, launch products, and drive sales. Exhibitors benefit from the show's credible, long-standing reputation within the food community and direct access to tens of thousands of passionate food lovers in one extraordinary festive environment. For more information, contact the team on 0207 150 5126 or email sales.rse@immediate.co.uk.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Food lovers and home cooks seeking festive recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and new products.

Christmas shoppers looking for unique artisan food, drink, and gift ideas from over 350 producers.

Families and groups of friends enjoying a festive day out with live entertainment, tastings, and hands-on workshops.

Good Food Magazine subscribers and app users accessing exclusive ticket rates and the subscriber lounge.

VIP ticket holders (aged 18+) seeking a premium experience with front-block seating, fizz, lounge access, and goody bags.

Food industry professionals tracking seasonal trends, consumer behaviour, and premium product launches.

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Artisan food and drink producers offering unique, handcrafted products.

Established food and beverage brands looking to deepen consumer relationships and drive sales.

Specialist manufacturers in chilled, ambient, frozen, and confectionery categories.

Gifting and festive product suppliers targeting the Christmas market.

Kitchenware and cookware brands showcasing new products to a foodie audience.

Ingredient suppliers and foodservice brands seeking exposure to high-spending consumers.

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Artisan Cheeses

Craft Gins & Spirits

Handmade Chocolates & Confectionery

Hot Sauces & Condiments

Luxury Preserves & Chutneys

Handcrafted Granola, Muesli & Porridge

Craft Beer & Cider

Speciality Coffee & Tea

Festive Gifts & Hampers

Kitchenware & Cookware

Outdoor Cooking & BBQ Equipment

Gourmet Food-to-Go

Bakery & Patisserie

Meat & Poultry Products

Seafood & Fresh Produce

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

17181920

National Exhibition Centre

North Avenue, B40 1NT Birmingham, United Kingdom

Entrances & gates

Main NEC Entrance (via Skywalk)

17181920

Access via covered walkway from Birmingham International Station; flat travelling escalators and lifts available.

Facilities

Parking

Ample on-site parking with 16,500 spaces. Standard daily rate £10, Express Parking £20 Pre-booking recommended for discounts and guaranteed entry. Free shuttle buses operate from car parks to venue entrances. EV charging points available on a first-come, first-served basis

16,500 spaces · £10.00/day

Accessibility

Step-free access throughout the venue. Free Blue Badge parking available (pre-book required) Accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities. Quiet Space available. Mobility equipment hire available (wheelchairs £5, scooters £20) Assistance dogs welcome. Hearing loop systems in many halls

Prayer rooms

Multi-faith prayer room located on the Piazza (Halls 1-5) next to the chaplaincy office. Equipped with wudu facilities, prayer mats, and holy books. Open to all visitors and staff

Cloakroom

Cloakroom facilities available for storing coats and bags

Charging points

EV charging points available for electric and hybrid vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis

On-site shuttle

Free shuttle buses operate between car parks and venue entrances

Food options

Wetherspoon's, The Atrium Restaurant, Vietnamese Street Kitchen, Bagel Factory, Resorts World Dining

On-site dining

Parking: Ample car parking with over 20,000 onsite spaces. Pre-paid parking is strongly advised (available 3 months out) at £14.95, saving £5 on the day rate (£19.95). Pre-pay up until the night before the show. Blue Badge disabled parking available at same pre-paid rate, close to halls, first-come first-served. EV charging spaces available. Shuttle buses operate between car parks and the show. Traffic officers direct to most convenient parking on arrival. Satnav postcode: B40 1NT.

Gate: The NEC is well signposted from the M6 (J4), M42 (J6), A45, A446 and M1.

Attend

Entry & tickets

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Event daysThursday, Friday & Saturday: 9.30:00 AM – 5.30:00 PM

Event daysSunday: 9.30:00 AM – 5.00:00 PM

Adult (Thursday, Friday, Sunday)
Early bird price; includes booking fee of £1.75 (total £23.25 + fee)
£25.00
Adult (Saturday)
Includes booking fee of £1.75 (total £24.50 + fee)
£26.00
Child (5–17 years)
Any day; includes booking fee of £1.75 (total £5 + fee)
£6.75
Child (0–4 years)
Free every day
Adult VIP (Thursday, Friday, Sunday)
Aged 18+ only; includes booking fee of £1.75 (total £100 + fee)
£101.75
Adult VIP (Saturday)
Aged 18+ only; includes booking fee of £1.75 (total £105 + fee)
£106.75

Ticket info

Badge collection

E-tickets are sent as PDF via email from See Tickets approximately 3–6 weeks before the show. Bring printed ticket or show on mobile device for entry

Ticket notes

Booking fee of £1.75 applies per ticket. Early bookers (first 9,500) receive a free cookbook. Groups of 10+ can save up to 25%

Who runs the show

Organisers

Immediate Live

Organiser

Website

Sales Team

Exhibitor & Sponsorship Sales

Email Call Website

Sponsorship Enquiries

Sponsorship Sales

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Speakers

James Martin

Celebrity Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

John Torode MBE

Celebrity Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Lisa Faulkner

Celebrity Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Jane Dunn

Founder @ Jane's Patisserie

Baking and patisserie

Glynn Purnell

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

David Taylor

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Mariella Frostrup & Belles Berry

Presenters

Interviews and book signings

Sabrina Ghayour

Chef and Cookbook Author

Middle Eastern cuisine

Chris Baber

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Cyrus Todiwala

Chef

Indian cuisine

Chris Bavin

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Marcus Bean

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Barney Desmazery

Food Editor @ BBC Good Food

Cooking tips and recipes

Samuel Goldsmith

Senior Food Editor @ BBC Good Food

Live interviews and Q&A

Ping Coombes

Chef

Malaysian cuisine

Andy Clarke

Drinks Expert

Drinks pairing and demonstrations

Katy Truss

Chef

Live cooking demonstrations

Maunika Gowardhan

Chef and Cookbook Author

Indian cuisine

Topic tracks

Big KitchenFestive KitchenChristmas Challenge StageKitchen ClinicKitchen TalesFabulous Food Finds Tasting TheatreCheese Hub

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 45,000 visitors · 350 exhibitors

Organiser forecast from exhibitor opportunities page

Forecast — not final

Visitors

127,000

Exhibitors

350

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Good Food Hub
Immersive section with live podcasts, merchandise, and a kitchen clinic, introduced at the 2025 edition
Source
2
Gifting Village
New area with stalls selling festive gifts from brands like Soctopus and Selbrae House, introduced at the 2025 edition-
Source

Next edition outlook

2026

confirmed

The 2026 Festive Good Food Show (rebranded from Good Food Show Winter) returns to the NEC Birmingham from 26–29 November. Organisers forecast 45,000+ visitors-, with a continued focus on festive indulgence, artisan discovery, and live entertainment. The show will build on 2025's innovations – including the Good Food Hub and Christmas Table workshops – while introducing new features aligned with seasonal trends like 'Newstalgia' and experience-led dining. With over 350 exhibitors expected, the event remains the UK's definitive Christmas food and drink destination.

Rebranding to 'Festive Good Food Show' with enhanced festive theming Expanded Good Food Hub with more live podcasts and interactive sessions New 'Gifting Village' area for curated Christmas presents (introduced in 2025, expanding in 2026) Increased focus on functional, health-driven products (GLP-1, gut health) and global flavours Stronger sustainability and carbon transparency messaging across exhibitor packaging

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The Good Food Show Winter 2025 was a landmark festive food event, drawing over 127,000 visitors to the NEC Birmingham across four days. With more than 350 exhibitors – from artisan producers to household brands – the show served as the UK's premier Christmas food and drink marketplace. The event featured live cooking demonstrations from a star-studded chef line-up including James Martin, Michel Roux, Si King, John Torode, Lisa Faulkner, and Gennaro Contaldo. A new 'Good Food Hub' with live podcasts, merchandise, and a kitchen clinic added an immersive layer to the experience. The show generated significant visitor spend (over £4.1 million in 2024- ) and reinforced its position as a key trendsetter for the UK food and drink industry.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 edition attracted a high-spending, food-obsessed consumer base, with 127,000+ visitors across four days. The crowd was a mix of home cooks, festive shoppers, families, and industry professionals. Visitors demonstrated strong purchase intent: 91% were likely to buy from brands again post-show-, and average dwell time exceeded 4 hours. The show's VIP area and subscriber lounge attracted a premium segment, while the broad appeal of free tastings, chef demonstrations, and artisan shopping drew a diverse, engaged audience.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors reported strong returns, with over £4.1 million in visitor spend recorded in 2024. The show's 350+ exhibitors – ranging from artisan producers like Grasmere Gingerbread to major brands – benefited from direct consumer access and high footfall. Many exhibitors highlighted the value of face-to-face sampling and storytelling, with producers noting that personal engagement drove sales and brand loyalty. The show's reputation as a launchpad for new products and a trendsetter for the UK food industry further enhanced exhibitor ROI.

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

United Kingdom

Why it matters

The Festive Good Food Show is the UK's definitive Christmas food and drink marketplace, sitting at the intersection of consumer retail, artisan discovery, and seasonal trendsetting. For buyers and exhibitors, it offers direct access to 45,000+ high-spending consumers (74% ABC1, average spend £150) in the critical pre-Christmas gifting and indulgence season. The show provides real-time insight into consumer behaviour ahead of Christmas – a period where consumers selectively trade up despite inflationary pressures. With 350+ handpicked artisan producers and big brands, it serves as a live laboratory for festive product innovation, packaging trends, premium positioning, and the 'Newstalgia' movement blending comfort with discovery. The event's unique dual consumer-trade audience makes it invaluable for understanding both retail and wholesale demand across chilled, ambient, frozen, and gifting categories.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

'Newstalgia' & Experience-Led Festive Dining

Christmas 2026 is shaping up as a season where consumers seek quality, indulgence, and memorable experiences while gravitating to familiar festive flavours. Operators are blending nostalgic flavours with contemporary formats – e.g., Turkey Dinner Pasty, Panettone Bread & Butter Pudding. 73% of consumers are likely to try small plates, with grazing and sharing formats a significant opportunity.

Source

Functional & Health-Driven Innovation

The beverage category is moving toward metabolic support, botanical enhancement, and gut health (e.g., functional lagers, high-fibre sodas, collagen tonics). GLP-1 medications are reshaping product development toward 'considered consumption' – nutrient-dense, fibre-rich, portion-controlled formats. 45% of Britons are cutting back, with health trends driving menu reformulation.

Source

Global Flavours & Ingredient-Led Cooking

Korean and Japanese cuisines identified as biggest sources of new dish inspiration. 53% of operators are using more ferments and pickles, 40% more miso and koji. The 'Levantine Wave' (Lebanon, Syria, Turkey) is influencing categories. Ingredients like miso, seaweed, and ferments are becoming pantry staples for building depth and umami.

Source

Sustainability & Clean Label as Core Pillars

Sustainability remains a structural pillar, with carbon transparency and Scope 3 emission data on packaging. Upcycling has matured (e.g., chia seed spreads as pectin alternatives). Healthy eating is redefined by natural, minimally processed ingredients – 70% of chefs say diners associate healthy with natural ingredients.

Source

Persistent Inflation & Value-Conscious Spending

Retail food inflation remains stubbornly high, forecast at 3.8% in 2026 (down from 4.3% in 2025). 33% of shoppers plan to cut grocery spend in 2026, up from 28%. Despite this, consumers will selectively trade up, especially during seasonal events like Christmas.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

UK food and drink sales surge over Christmas

Household grocery spending hit a record high over Christmas, industry data showed on Tuesday, as shoppers snapped up festive food and drink. Prices rose fastest in chilled smoothies and juices, chocolate and skincare.

Read

Tradeshow Insight: UK Food & Drink Shows 2026 highlight functional beverages and gut health

The UK Food & Drink Shows (NEC, April 2026) showcased 1,200+ exhibitors and 25,000 visitors. Key themes: liquid functionality (prickly pear cactus water, functional lagers with cordyceps), digestive health (gut-friendly sodas, collagen tonics), and alternative base ingredients.

Read

Creed Foodservice unveils Christmas 2026 range inspired by 'Newstalgia'

Creed's Christmas 2026 range reflects consumer demand for quality, indulgence, and memorable dining. Key trends: Newstalgia (nostalgic flavours in contemporary formats), experience-led dining, and social connection. 73% of consumers likely to try small plates; grazing and sharing formats present significant opportunity.

Read

IFE 2026: GLP-1, 'considered consumption', and the Levantine Wave

IFE 2026 (London, March-April 2026) featured 1,500+ global suppliers, 25,000+ trade professionals. Key themes: GLP-1 impact driving nutrient-dense, fibre-rich products; functional nootropic beverages; 'Levantine Wave' flavour profiles; sustainability with Scope 3 transparency; upcycling; and a new FoodTech section.

Read

IGD warns the food industry faces a tough year

Food and drink businesses face another make-or-break year in 2026, with persistent inflation, fragile shopper confidence, and rising household taxes. Retail food inflation forecast at 3.8% in 2026. 33% of shoppers plan to cut grocery spend. Opportunities exist in seasonal indulgence and premium moments.

Read

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

BHX

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Primary airport for the NEC. A free Air-Rail Link connects the airport terminal to Birmingham International Railway Station in 90 seconds, with trains every 2 minutes. From the station, the NEC is a short walk via a covered walkway

2.2 km (1.4 miles)

to venue

5 minutes

by car

EMA

East Midlands Airport (EMA)

Secondary option. Direct bus connections to Birmingham available, or take Skylink bus to Derby/Nottingham then train to Birmingham International

60 km (37 miles)

to venue

50 minutes

by car

LHR

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Major international hub. Direct train services from Heathrow to Birmingham New Street, then connect to Birmingham International

180 km (112 miles)

to venue

2 hours

by car

MAN

Manchester Airport (MAN)

Northern England hub. Direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham International run regularly

130 km (81 miles)

to venue

1.5 hours

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget

Birmingham Airport / NEC vicinity

USD 80–120 / night

Basic but comfortable options like ibis Budget and ibis Styles. Often include free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Some may offer shuttle services to the NEC or airport. Prices are estimates based on typical rates for this category.

Mid-Range

NEC Campus / Birmingham Airport

USD 120–200 / night

Popular choices include Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC, Moxy Birmingham NEC, and ibis Birmingham Airport NEC. These hotels offer a good balance of comfort, amenities, and value. Many provide free shuttle services to the NEC or train station.

Premium

NEC Campus / Resorts World

USD 200–350 / night

Top-tier accommodation for a luxurious stay, including Hilton Birmingham Metropole (on NEC campus, connected by covered walkway- ), Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC, and Genting Hotel & Spa at Resorts World (attached to the NEC complex- ). Offer full-service amenities, spas, and fine dining.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Train

Estimated cost£5–£10

Best forBirmingham New Street – Birmingham International (NEC)

Direct trains run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours, every 15-20 minutes off-peak; journey time approximately 10 minutes. Birmingham International Station is a 5-minute covered walk (Bridgelink) to the NEC Served by Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, and Transport for Wales

Bus

Estimated cost£2–£5

Best forBirmingham City Centre – NEC (services X1, X12, 75/75A, 900, 97, 97A, 17A, 96)

Bus interchange at Birmingham International Interchange. X1 connects Birmingham City Centre and Coventry; X12 connects Birmingham City Centre and Solihull service runs every 15 minutes during the day, taking approx. 30 minutes 97 service operates every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day, taking approx. 45 minutes 97A, 17A, and 96 also serve the venue

Coach

Estimated costVaries by route

Best forNational Express / Megabus – Birmingham Airport

Over 120 daily coach services from across the UK to Birmingham Airport. From Birmingham Airport, take the free Air-Rail Link to Birmingham International Station (90 seconds, every 2 minutes), then walk to the NEC

Free Shuttle Bus

Estimated costFree

Best forNEC car parks to venue entrances

Complimentary shuttle bus service connecting all parking areas to the exhibition halls. Runs from one hour before the event starts until one hour after it finishes. Buses run every ten minutes. Also available for inter-hall transfers at some events

Taxi / Ride-hail

Estimated cost£25–£40

Best forBirmingham city centre – NEC

Official black cab partner: TOA Taxis (24/7). Book online, via app, or call 0121 427 8888 / 0800 0142 729 Journey approx. 20 minutes from city centre. Other providers drop off at Piazza or Atrium; TOA can pick up at main entrance

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Standard Visitor Visa (Business)	Nationals of countries listed in the UK Visa National List who are not eligible for an ETA and require advance entry clearance to attend trade fairs, exhibitions, and business meetings in the UK	$175.00	Usually 3 weeks (15 working days) from biometrics appointment; priority services available for faster processing
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Visa-free nationals (e.g., EU, US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea) travelling to the UK for short business visits, including attending trade fairs and exhibitions, for up to 6 months	$26.00	Usually processed within hours to a few days

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for short stays (up to 6 months) but must obtain an ETA from 2026: EU Member States, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, United States, and many others. Nationals of countries listed in the UK Visa National List (e.g., Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, China, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, Vietnam, etc.) generally require a Standard Visitor Visa in advance

The UK accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary duty-free and tax-free import of goods for trade fairs, exhibitions, and professional equipment. From 1 June 2026, the UK has introduced digital ATA Carnets (e-carnets) in partnership with the EU, Norway, and Switzerland. Exhibitors must present the Carnet at every entry, exit, or transit point. Consumable goods (e.g., food, beverages) and items intended for sale are excluded. To obtain an ATA Carnet, exhibitors should apply through their national Chamber of Commerce

Official visa page

Weather

Late November in Birmingham is cool and changeable. Average temperatures range from a low of 4.8°C (40.7°F) to a high of 9.7°C (49.5°F). Rainfall is common, averaging 54.5 mm for the month. Humidity is high at around 80%. Expect occasional showers and overcast skies. Dress in warm layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for walking the extensive show floor.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The NEC is exceptionally well-connected, located next to Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International Railway Station. The free Air-Rail Link connects the airport to the railway station in 90 seconds. Trains from Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International run every 5-10 minutes, taking just 10 minutes. The venue is directly accessible from the railway station via a covered walkway (Bridgelink) Major motorways (M42, M40, M6) provide easy road access

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

The Balti Triangle

Birmingham is the birthplace of the balti – a spicy, sizzling curry cooked and served in a cast-iron dish. Head to the Balti Triangle in Sparkbrook for an authentic experience.

Jewellery Quarter

A historic district with over 100 jewellery businesses, offering a unique blend of craftsmanship, independent shops, and museums. It's one of Birmingham's most distinctive neighbourhoods

Canals & Gas Street Basin

Birmingham has more canals than Venice. The Gas Street Basin is a picturesque spot lined with bars, restaurants, and narrowboats – perfect for an evening stroll

Brummie Etiquette

Locals (Brummies) are known for their friendliness and dry humour. Common courtesies like 'please', 'thank you', and offering your seat to the elderly are appreciated. Queuing is a serious matter in the UK – always join the back of the line.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Birmingham Airport (BHX)

BHX is served by major airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines. Book well in advance for November as demand is high pre-Christmas.

Book flights

Visa

Most visitors attending the Festive Good Food Show as exhibitors or delegates will travel under the Standard Visitor visa route. Permitted activities include attending trade fairs and exhibitions for promotional work only, provided no direct sales occur. Visa-free nationals (e.g., EU, US, Canada, Australia) must obtain an ETA from 2026 Nationals of visa-required countries (e.g., China, India, Nigeria, Turkey) must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa in advance. All visitors must meet eligibility requirements, including proof of sufficient funds and intention to leave the UK

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: Standard Visitor Visa: 3 weeks (15 working days); ETA: hours to a few days

The Standard Visitor Visa fee is £135 (approx. $175 USD) Priority processing services (5 working days) are available for an additional fee. The ETA costs £20 (approx. $26 USD) Applicants should apply at least 3 months before travel. For business visits, a letter from the employer or the UK host confirming the purpose of the trip and who is meeting the costs is strongly recommended

Official Partner

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

NEC Campus · Birmingham Airport (BHX) · Birmingham City Centre

Budget

$80–$120 per night

Mid-Range

$120–$200 per night

Premium

$200–$350 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Take the free Air-Rail Link from Birmingham Airport (BHX) to Birmingham International Railway Station. The journey takes just 90 seconds and runs every two minutes. From the station, it's a 5-10 minute covered walk to the NEC.

Hotel → venue: Many hotels near the NEC offer free shuttle services to Birmingham International Station or the venue itself. Alternatively, use local buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services.

Ride-hail: TOA Taxis are the official black cab partner of the NEC, available 24/7. Book via phone 0121 427 8888 / 0800 0142 729, the TOA app, or toataxis.co.uk.

Public transit: Train: Birmingham International Station is a 5-minute walk from the NEC. Up to 9 trains per hour from Birmingham New Street. Bus: The 900 service runs every 15 mins from Birmingham City Centre (approx. 30 mins). Also X1, X12, 97A, 17A.

Parking: Pre-book parking online for the best rate of £14.95 (saving £5 on the day rate). Free shuttle buses operate between car parks and the venue.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: November

Temperature: 4.8°C – 9.7°C (40.7°F – 49.5°F)

Seasonality: Rainfall common, averaging 54.5 mm. Overcast skies and occasional showers.

Packing: Warm layers (jumpers, fleece), waterproof jacket or coat, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella.

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at NEC, collect pre-paid parking, enter via Skywalk
09:30Show opens – head to Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre for morning samples
11:00Big Kitchen live demo (pre-booked seat)
12:30Grab lunch from food-to-go outlets and explore Cheese Hub
14:00Festive Kitchen free stage session for cooking tips
15:30Shopping – browse 350+ producers for festive gifts and treats
17:00Wrap up, visit Resorts World for dinner or drinks

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Thursday

Thursday is typically the least crowded day, allowing for easier access to exhibitors, shorter queues for tastings, and a more relaxed shopping experience. Early bird tickets are also available at the lowest prices (£25).

Confirm booth booking and sign contract — Secure your space early; Food Champions subsidised area is application-only and limited. Contact sales team at 0207 150 5126 or sales.rse@immediate.co.uk.

Apply for Food Champions area (if eligible) — For small artisan producers; subsidised rates up to 44% off. Complete application form and send product sample to katy@fabulousfoodfinds.co.uk.

Arrange stand design and order display materials — Order shell scheme or custom build; Reflex Exhibitions offers packages with in-house print and UK-wide delivery.

Book shipping and freight — Deliver to NEC Birmingham, North Ave, Marston Green, B40 1NT. Include stand number, company name and mobile number on all deliveries.

Obtain public liability and employers' liability insurance — Insurance certificates must be available for inspection. Check organiser requirements with sales team.

Prepare risk assessment — Every trader needs a risk assessment regardless of business size. Include fire safety and food handling procedures if sampling.

Confirm staffing and travel arrangements — Book accommodation and travel for all stand staff. Review show opening hours (9:30am–5:30pm Thu–Sat, 9:30am–5:00pm Sun).

Finalise product samples, marketing collateral and POS materials — Public-facing events like Good Food Show require higher quantities of lighter takeaway material. Prepare branded giveaways.

Confirm stand build and delivery schedule — Check NEC build-up logistics; most venues offer reliable build-up logistics. Confirm electrical and safety rules.

Final stand setup and display check — Arrive on site, set up stand, test AV/lighting, arrange stock and samples. Ensure hand-washing station if providing food samples.

Show opens – engage visitors, sample, collect leads — Be prepared to sample in volume. Average dwell time 4+ hours; 91% visitors likely to buy from brands again post-show.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day