Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at Expowest Cornwall include A E RODDA & SONS LIMITED, AG BARR Soft Drinks, Antonelli, Asahi and Az Ambalaj (UK Food Pack).

A E RODDA & SONS LIMITED
AG BARR Soft Drinks
Antonelli
Asahi
Az Ambalaj (UK Food Pack)

Event overview

Overview

Expowest Cornwall is Cornwall's premier hospitality and catering trade show, established for over four decades as the one truly essential event for the region's food, drink, and hospitality industry. Taking place on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd March 2027 at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre in Wadebridge, the show is perfectly timed for pre-season menu and business planning. It brings together a comprehensive range of products and services—from fresh produce and artisan foods to catering equipment, beverages, tableware, and business services.

The show is known for its 'try before you buy' environment, allowing chefs, buyers, and business owners to taste, test, and compare products firsthand before making purchasing decisions. With over 160 exhibitors expected, the event is a concentrated showcase of the innovations, trends, and suppliers that will shape the region's hospitality landscape in the year ahead. Beyond the exhibition floor, Expowest Cornwall serves as a social and networking hub, offering an informal yet business-focused atmosphere where operators can reconnect with colleagues, meet new suppliers, and share ideas.

The show is free to attend for trade buyers, with free on-site parking and easy access from the A30 and A39.

TL;DR

1Cornwall’s longest-running hospitality trade show, returning for its 40+ year.
2Held on 2–3 March 2027 at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre, Wadebridge.
3Free entry for trade buyers, with free parking and easy access from major routes.
4Over 160 exhibitors showcasing fresh produce, artisan foods, equipment, beverages, and more.
5'Try before you buy' environment ideal for menu planning and supplier comparisons.

Why visit

If you have a serious interest in hospitality and catering, food and drink, Cornwall and its economy, then Expowest Cornwall is the trade show for you. In just a few hours, you’ll get a real sense of which way the market is moving, what’s likely to sell best in 2027, and grab the best ideas while they’re still fresh. The show offers an unusually broad range of products and services—from foodservice and fresh produce to bakery, catering equipment, drinks, tableware, and speciality foods. You can taste artisan cheese, compare craft ales, and evaluate tableware quality in person—something no website or catalogue can replicate. Face-to-face meetings allow you to build relationships with suppliers, often securing better terms and superior service. With over 160 exhibitors and a track record where 94% of visitors would recommend the show, Expowest Cornwall is a mandatory date for anyone serious about staying competitive in Cornwall's hospitality sector.

Why exhibit

Hospitality and catering are the main drivers of the Cornish tourism economy, and for more than four decades Expowest Cornwall has been the premier trade show for all those involved in its service and supply. The show is perfectly timed for pre-season planning, connecting suppliers with a concentrated Cornish buyer audience. Exhibitors benefit from a focused environment where buyers are ready to purchase: 64% of visitors place orders at or shortly after the show, and 93% find new suppliers. The show attracts buyers from food service, hospitality, retail, and the public sector—including hotels, restaurants, pubs, cafés, farm shops, tourist attractions, schools, and hospitals. With a wealth of experience, the organiser works closely with exhibitors from booking to arrival, ensuring a smooth experience and maximising product awareness through extensive targeted promotion. Expowest Cornwall is a cost-effective way to showcase your brand to decision-makers who are actively seeking new products and suppliers for the year ahead.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Hotel and restaurant owners, managers, and buyers-

Catering professionals and F&B managers

Pub and bar operators

Café, deli, and farm shop owners

Holiday park and tourist attraction operators

Retail buyers from supermarkets, independent stores, and grocers

Public sector buyers from schools, colleges, and hospitals

Industry consultants and advisors-

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Food and drink producers (fresh produce, artisan foods, bakery, speciality foods)

Catering equipment and kitchen technology suppliers

Beverage suppliers (wines, spirits, beers, mixers, soft drinks)

Tableware, furniture, and hospitality supplies-

Business services and technology solutions for hospitality

Local, national, and international suppliers targeting the Cornish market

Companies offering sustainable packaging, plant-forward products, and operational efficiency tools

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Foodservice

Fresh produce

Bakery

Business services

Ice cream

Catering equipment

Drinks

Dairy

Tableware

Toiletries

Speciality foods

Sundry supplies

Coffee

Equipment

Artisan foods

Tech solutions

Beverages

Operational must-haves

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Royal Cornwall Events Centre

Whitecross, PL27 7JE Wadebridge, UK

Entrances & gates

Main Entrance

Drop-off point located next to accessible parking bays, at the Main Entrance, with a flat entrance to the show. Vaping is not permitted inside; visitors who wish to vape should do so outside via the Main Entrance

Facilities

Parking

Free parking for thousands of cars, with dedicated disabled parking close to the halls.

2,000 spaces ·

Accessibility

Exhibition halls have full wheelchair access. Accessible parking is available close to the halls. A drop-off point is located next to accessible parking bays at the Main Entrance, with a flat entrance to the show. Accessible toilets are available, including a Space to Change facility (bring your own sling and radar key). Guide and assistance dogs are welcome.

Prayer rooms

No dedicated prayer rooms are mentioned on the official event or venue websites.

On-site shuttle

No on-site shuttle service is mentioned. The venue has large parking areas within easy walking distance of the halls.

Food options

On-site catering

On-site dining

Parking: Free parking for thousands of cars, all within an easy stroll of the trade show halls. Disabled parking is located as close to the halls as practical. Traffic stewards direct you to appropriate parking. For sat nav use postcode PL27 7JE; for what3words use tile.invite.branching

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Free registration

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Tuesday 2 March10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday 3 March10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Ticket info

Badge collection

Badges are issued upon arrival. Trade buyers can register online or on-site; there is no charge even if printed at the show. Students under 18 are welcome when accompanied by college staff as part of an organised visit and will be issued a badge upon arrival; they should not register online. Children are not recommended but if brought, they must be supervised at all times and will be issued a badge upon arrival; do not register children online

Ticket notes

Free entry for trade buyers. No ticket prices apply.

Who runs the show

Organisers

Hale Events Ltd

Organiser

Website

Mike Anderson

Managing Director

Email Call Website

General Enquiries

Data Protection Officer

Email Website

What's on

Programme

Previous edition

Current edition

2027

Current edition details are based on the event's official website. Specific exhibitor and visitor counts for 2027 have not been published. The organiser typically promotes 'over 160 exhibitors' in the lead-up to the show.

Forecast — not final

Growth over time

Edition recap

Following this year's successful events, The Source trade show and Expowest Cornwall – two of the UK's leading events for the food, drink, and hospitality sector – have announced the 2026 dates. Expowest Cornwall once again showed why it's the heart of Cornwall's food, hospitality, and catering community. The event showcased a comprehensive range of products and services, from fresh produce and bakery items to cutting-edge catering equipment and business services, alongside more than 50 leading drinks brands brought together by distributor LWC. Many first-time visitors to Expowest Cornwall are surprised by just how much is on offer. With everything from essential supplies to new innovations all under one roof, Expowest Cornwall made it easy to find everything needed for the year ahead – without the need to look elsewhere.

New this edition

1
Fish & Chip/Takeaway Aisle
Introduced in 2023, a dedicated aisle focusing on the fish and chip and takeaway trade, featuring suppliers such as T Quality, Middletons Foods, Kerry Foods, Drywite Ltd, Pacific West, Blenders, Pan Euro Foods, and Pukka Pies.
Source
2
Leading in Innovation and Sustainability Area
Launched in 2023 to highlight products and services focused on sustainability and innovation.
Source

Testimonials

We are over the moon with the quality turnout and positive feedback received from exhibitors and visitors alike.
Mike Anderson · Managing Director · Hale Events Ltd · 2024

These two shows bring together the best of the South West food and drink industry, offering fresh ideas, exceptional networking, and access to the best suppliers. They provide the perfect place to prepare for a successful year.
Mike Anderson · Managing Director · Hale Events Ltd · 2025

Next edition outlook

2027

estimated

Expowest Cornwall 2027 takes place on 2–3 March at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre. The show continues to be the essential annual meeting point for Cornwall's hospitality sector, offering a 'try before you buy' environment with over 160 exhibitors expected. The show is ideally timed for pre-season menu and business planning, helping buyers prepare for the summer season. Cornwall's hospitality sector faces headwinds from rising costs and uncertain visitor numbers, making the show's role in connecting buyers with suppliers and innovative solutions more critical than ever.

Continued growth in plant-forward and sustainable product offerings Expanded drinks portfolio from LWC Drinks with NPD-led launches Increased focus on operational efficiency and tech solutions Potential impact of business rates changes on hospitality operators

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

Expowest Cornwall 2025 once again proved itself as the heart of Cornwall's food, hospitality, and catering community. The event showcased a comprehensive range of products and services, from fresh produce and bakery items to cutting-edge catering equipment and business services, alongside more than 50 leading drinks brands brought together by distributor LWC Many first-time visitors were surprised by the breadth of offerings, with everything from essential supplies to new innovations all under one roof, making it easy to find everything needed for the year ahead without looking elsewhere. The show attracted hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of trade buyers from across the region and beyond, with packed aisles, extensive networking, and significant order placement

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

Expowest Cornwall attracts a highly targeted trade audience, with over 95% of visitors coming from Cornwall, making it the only trade event built entirely around the needs of local buyers. The show draws decision-makers from pubs, hotels, restaurants, cafés, delis, farm shops, holiday parks, tourist attractions, catering businesses, supermarkets, and food and drink retail. Industry benchmarks indicate that 82% of trade show attendees have purchasing authority, and 92% attend primarily to see new products, underscoring the quality of the buyer audience

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors benefit from a focused buying environment where visitors are ready to purchase. Post-show survey data from the 2023 edition showed that 69% of visitors placed orders at the show or shortly afterwards, 91% found new suppliers (with 67% finding three or more), and 94% would recommend the show to a colleague. These metrics demonstrate strong exhibitor ROI, with the show serving as a direct sales and lead-generation platform. Mike Anderson, Managing Director of Hale Events, noted that the shows 'bring together the best of the South West food and drink industry, offering fresh ideas, exceptional networking, and access to the best suppliers.'

Intelligence

Market context

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

South West England / Cornwall, UK

Why it matters

Expowest Cornwall matters because hospitality and catering are the main drivers of the Cornish tourism economy, which generates over £2 billion annually and supports more than 50,000 local jobs around 20% of all employment. The show is the only trade event built entirely around the needs of local buyers, with over 95% of visitors coming from Cornwall. It is perfectly timed for pre-season planning, enabling buyers to discover new suppliers, compare products, and place orders before the summer season. With 64% of visitors placing orders at or shortly after the show, and 94% recommending the show to colleagues, Expowest Cornwall is the essential annual meeting point for Cornwall's food, drink, leisure, and hospitality sectors. The show also serves as a social and networking hub where operators can reconnect with colleagues, meet new suppliers, and share ideas in an informal yet business-focused atmosphere.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Cost pressures and margin squeeze

UK hospitality operators face sustained pressure from wages, energy, food costs, and tightening profit margins. The April 2026 national minimum wage increase added around £1.4 billion in costs across the sector. Restaurant price inflation is running at 6.8% year-on-year. Operators are responding with tighter menus, clearer purpose, and every ingredient must earn its place.

Source

Business rates relief for pubs and hospitality

Pubs and music venues received a 15% discount on business rates from April 2026, frozen for two years. From April 2027, pubs, social clubs and live music venues get an additional 20% cut, saving the typical pub around £1,100. Around 600 licensed clubs and 4,000 pubs and bars across Cornwall and the South West benefit.

Source

Cornwall tourism: recovery but uncertainty persists

Cornwall's tourism economy generates £2.1 billion a year and supports one in five local jobs. Visitor numbers dropped 10-12% in 2024, with only modest recovery in 2025. The official tourist board Visit Cornwall entered voluntary liquidation in 2026. Operators report 2026 as 'seven out of ten' improving but still cautious.

Source

Sustainability and plant-forward eating

Hospitality trends in 2026 include stronger emphasis on sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and guest experience innovation. Plant-forward menus and sustainable packaging continue to grow as consumer priorities. Expowest Cornwall's 'Leading in Innovation and Sustainability Area' (launched 2023) reflects this shift.

Source

Face-to-face buying and 'try before you buy'

Trade buyers increasingly value in-person product evaluation you can't taste artisan cheese on a website or compare craft ales in a catalogue. Expowest Cornwall's 'try before you buy' environment allows chefs and buyers to taste, test, and compare products firsthand. 82% of trade show attendees have purchasing authority, and 92% attend primarily to see new products.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Hospitality sector in Devon and Cornwall calls for more support

Industry leaders express 'a degree of apprehension' about 2026, with some describing it as 'the toughest year for hospitality we've seen'. Veryan Palmer of the Headland Hotel & Spa describes the year as 'looking cautiously optimistic'.

Read

Brewery chief says relief will help Cornwall pubs survive and thrive

St Austell Brewery CEO Kevin Georgel welcomes 15% business rates relief for pubs, saying it could slow pub closures. The three-year package is worth around £1,650 for the average pub in 2026/27.

Read

Staycation-led hotel collection to open first property in Cornwall

The Elysium Collection, a new British hotel group specialising in the UK staycation market, will open its first Cornwall property (56-bedroom Elysium St Mawes) in October 2026, part of a £100m investment across six hotels.

Read

Noah Law welcomes 20% rates cut for Cornwall pubs and clubs

From April 2027, pubs, social clubs and live music venues in Cornwall get a 20% business rates cut, saving the typical pub around £1,100. The cut benefits nearly 32,000 venues nationally.

Read

Could Harry Potter rescue Cornwall's tourism industry?

HBO's Harry Potter TV series (2027 release) is filming in Cornwall, including at Cadgwith Cove Inn. This follows the liquidation of Visit Cornwall. High accommodation prices and crowded beaches have reduced visitor numbers.

Read

Summer holiday season 'almost 10 out of 10' for Cornwall venue

Jon Hyatt of Hendra Holiday Park says 2026 has been 'building from January', after quieter years in 2024 and 2025. The 2026 season so far has been 'seven out of ten' in Devon.

Read

UK Hospitality, Food & Drink Trade Show Circuit 2027

March – April 2027 (6-week concentrated season)

Expowest Cornwall (2-3 March 2027) kicks off the UK hospitality and food trade show season in the South West. It is followed by a concentrated cluster of major national events in April 2027: Food, Drink & Hospitality Week at London Excel (5-7 April) brings together HRC, IFE, Speciality & Fine Food Fair, The Pub Show, and Hospitality Tech360 under one roof, attracting over 25,000 trade visitors. Meanwhile, the UK Food & Drink Shows at Birmingham NEC (12-14 April) comprise Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show, Forecourt Show and Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, with 1,500+ exhibitors. For South West-focused buyers, Expowest Cornwall offers a concentrated local experience that complements the larger national shows.

South West regional opener (March)

Expowest Cornwall 2027

The only major hospitality trade show in the South West; ideal for local buyers and suppliers to connect before the national shows.

London cluster (April)

HRC 2027IFE 2027Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2027

Food, Drink & Hospitality Week brings together 5+ co-located shows at London Excel, attracting 25,000+ trade visitors.

Birmingham cluster (April)

Food & Drink Expo 2027Farm Shop & Deli Show 2027National Convenience Show 2027Foodex Manufacturing Solutions 2027

UK Food & Drink Shows at NEC Birmingham shows, 1,500+ exhibitors, 30,000+ visitors.

Event dates are sourced from official event websites and trade press. HRC, IFE, and Speciality & Fine Food Fair are co-located as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week. Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show, and Foodex Manufacturing Solutions are co-located as part of the UK Food & Drink Shows at NEC Birmingham.

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

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

NQY

Cornwall Airport Newquay

The nearest airport to the venue. Go Cornwall Bus operates service 94 between Wadebridge and Truro via the Airport, with a journey time of approximately 42 minutes. Taxis are available and take approximately 18-30 minutes.

Approximately 20 miles (32 km)

to venue

About 30–40 minutes by car

by car

EXT

Exeter Airport

A viable alternative with more frequent national connections. Travel to Wadebridge typically involves a train from Exeter St Davids to Bodmin Parkway, then a taxi or bus.

Approximately 64 miles (103 km)

to venue

About 1 hour 30 minutes by car

by car

BRS

Bristol Airport

A major international airport serving the South West. From Bristol, travel to Wadebridge is typically by car or train via Exeter or Plymouth, followed by local transport.

Approximately 110 miles (177 km)

to venue

About 2 hours 15 minutes by car

by car

Hotel tiers

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

Budget

Wadebridge town centre and immediate vicinity

USD 57–80 / night

Includes Travelodge Wadebridge (0.79 km from venue, prices from US$57) and The Swan Hotel (central, from US$76). Basic but comfortable accommodation with free parking and Wi-Fi.

Mid-range

Wadebridge and surrounding villages (St. Breock, Rock)

USD 80–170 / night

Includes Molesworth Arms Hotel (central, rates from ~US$108-173) -, Hustyns Hotel (4.5 km from venue, from ~US$173)-, and the newly refurbished Swan Hotel. Good amenities, restaurants, and bars.

Premium

Rock (coastal village, ~8 miles from venue)

USD 200–350 / night

The St Enodoc Hotel in Rock offers luxury accommodation with river views, spa, two restaurants, and an outdoor swimming pool. Other boutique hotels and B&Bs available in Rock and Padstow with premium rates.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Bus

Estimated cost£2–£3

Best forWadebridge town centre (The Platt) to Royal Cornwall Showground

Go Cornwall Bus operates frequent services (routes 11, 11S, 57, 90, 92, 94, 95) between Wadebridge and the Showground. Route 94 from. The Platt runs every 30 minutes, taking around 6 minutes. The average journey time is 9 minutes with direct buses running hourly until about 9:51 PM. The nearest bus stop is Royal Cornwall Showground, a 1-minute walk from the venue.

Bus

Estimated cost£4–£5

Best forBodmin Parkway Station to Wadebridge

Line 11 bus connects Bodmin Parkway Station (the nearest railway station, 12 miles away) to Wadebridge Bus Station, taking approximately 40–42 minutes. From Wadebridge, take a local bus or taxi to the Showground.

Bus

Estimated cost£4–£5

Best forCornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) to Wadebridge

Go Cornwall Bus route 94 runs between Newquay Airport and Wadebridge via the Showground, with a journey time of approximately 29–42 minutes. Buses operate every 2–3 hours. Route 92 also connects Newquay to Wadebridge.

Taxi

Estimated cost£8–£12

Best forWadebridge town centre to Royal Cornwall Showground

A taxi from Wadebridge town centre to the Showground takes about 4 minutes and covers approximately 3 km. Local operators include SW Taxis, Parnells Taxis, Midas Taxis, and Abby Taxis. Pre-booking is recommended.

Taxi

Estimated cost£28–£40

Best forBodmin Parkway Station to Royal Cornwall Showground

A taxi from Bodmin Parkway Station to the Showground takes approximately 16–17 minutes. Taxis are available outside the station.

Taxi

Estimated cost£40–£65

Best forCornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) to Royal Cornwall Showground

A taxi from Newquay Airport to the Showground takes approximately 18–30 minutes. Several local companies offer airport transfer services.

Car

Estimated costFuel cost variable

Best forVia A30 and A39 from Bodmin

The Showground is 1.5 miles west of Wadebridge on the A39, well-signposted from the A30. Sat nav postcode: PL27 7JE; what3words: tile.invite.branching. Free on-site parking for thousands of cars, with disabled parking close to the halls.

Coach

Estimated costVaries by origin

Best forNational Express – nationwide to Cornwall

National Express serves Cornwall from across Britain, with services from London Victoria and Heathrow Airport running up to six times a day. Coaches go direct to St Austell, Truro, Newquay, Falmouth, St Ives and Penzance.

Train

Estimated costVaries by origin

Best forBodmin Parkway (nearest station)

The nearest railway station is Bodmin Parkway, 12 miles from the Showground. Great Western Railway operates services. From the station, take a taxi or bus (line 11) to Wadebridge. National Rail Enquiries: 03457 48 49 50.

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa not required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Standard Visitor visa (business)	Nationals of countries that are not visa-exempt and are not eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Required for business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, trade shows, and negotiating contracts	$170.00	Typically 3 weeks (15 working days) from biometric appointment
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Nationals of visa-exempt countries (including the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many EU/EEA countries) who do not require a visa for short business visits	$25.00	Typically processed within 3 working days; often issued within hours.

Nationals of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and most EU/EEA countries do not need a visa for short business visits (up to 6 months) and may instead apply for an ETA (cost £20) or enter visa-free depending on their nationality. Nationals of many other countries (e.g., India, China, South Africa, Nigeria, Turkey) will require a Standard Visitor visa. Use the official UK government checker to confirm specific requirements: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

The UK accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary import of commercial goods such as trade fair/exhibition materials, professional equipment, and samples. Goods must be re-exported within the authorised time limit (usually up to 24 months) and must remain in the same condition. ATA Carnets are issued by national chambers of commerce. For event goods, Temporary Admission (TA) is also available; apply at least one month in advance

Official visa page

Weather

March in Wadebridge is cool and damp, with average high temperatures of 10°C (49°F) and average lows of 6°C (43°F). Rainfall is common, with around 8 rain days in March and a 32% daily chance of rain. Winds can be moderate, averaging 32.7 km/h (20.3 mph). Attendees should pack a waterproof coat, layers, and comfortable footwear for walking between car parks and halls.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The venue is well-connected by road, situated 1.5 miles west of Wadebridge on the A39, with easy access from the A30. The nearest railway station is Bodmin Parkway, 12 miles away, with taxis available outside. National Express coaches serve Cornwall from across Britain, with services from London Victoria and Heathrow running up to six times a day. Local bus services 11, 11S, 92, and 95 stop at the Royal Cornwall Showground. For sat nav, use postcode PL27 7JE.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Cornwall's hospitality culture

Cornwall's hospitality sector is built around seasonal tourism, with the summer months driving the bulk of visitor numbers. The county's food and drink scene is renowned for its focus on fresh, local produce—from day-boat fish and shellfish to artisan cheeses, craft ales, and Cornish pasties. Expowest Cornwall reflects this culture, bringing together local producers, suppliers, and operators in a business-friendly environment that values personal relationships and 'try before you buy' experiences.

Networking and community

Beyond the exhibition floor, Expowest Cornwall is a social occasion—an annual chance to reconnect with colleagues, meet new suppliers, and share ideas with other operators facing the same challenges and opportunities. The atmosphere is informal, energetic, and geared entirely towards helping businesses thrive.

Business etiquette

Business interactions in Cornwall tend to be cordial and no-nonsense, with an emphasis on clear, direct communication. A firm handshake is the common greeting. Punctuality is valued. Conservative business dress is appropriate. When engaging with locals, avoid sensitive topics like sport or the weather-, and be aware of local terms of endearment such as 'my lover' or 'me handsome'.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY)

Cornwall Airport Newquay offers daily flights to and from destinations across the UK and Europe. For those requiring more frequent connections, Exeter Airport (EXT) or Bristol Airport (BRS) are viable alternatives. From Newquay Airport, take Go Cornwall Bus route 94 to Wadebridge (approx. 42 minutes), or take a taxi (approx. 18-30 minutes).

Book flights

Visa

Whether you need a visa or an ETA to attend Expowest Cornwall depends on your nationality. Many nationalities (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, EU) can enter visa-free or with an ETA for business visits up to 6 months. Nationals of other countries (e.g., India, China, South Africa, Nigeria) require a Standard Visitor visa. The event organiser does not appear to provide visa invitation letters on its public website; attendees should check with the organiser directly if such a letter is needed

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: Standard Visitor visa: typically 3 weeks (15 working days) from biometric appointment. ETA: typically processed within 3 working days

Business visitors attending the trade show fall under the Standard Visitor (business) route. Permitted activities include attending meetings, conferences, trade shows, and negotiating contracts. Visitors cannot do paid or unpaid work, sell directly to the public, or provide goods and services. The event organiser does not appear to publish visa invitation letters on its website; contact Hale Events Ltd directly if such a letter is required for your application.

Official

Hotels

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

Areas to stay

Wadebridge town centre (most convenient, walking distance or short drive) · St. Breock / outskirts (quiet, within 5-10 minute drive) · Rock / Padstow (premium coastal accommodation, 15-20 minute drive) · Bodmin (train connections, 15-20 minute drive)

Budget

$57 – $80 per night

Mid-range

$80 – $170 per night

Premium

$200 – $350+ per night

Transport

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

Airport → venue: Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) is the nearest airport (20 miles, 30-40 min drive). Go Cornwall Bus route 94 runs between the Airport and Wadebridge (approx. 42 min). Taxis are available from ~£40. Alternatively, Exeter (EXT) or Bristol (BRS) airports with onward train/car.

Hotel → venue: Wadebridge town centre hotels are within 1-2 miles (5-10 min drive or 15-20 min walk). Taxis cost ~£5-10 from town centre. Hotels in St. Breock or Rock require a car or taxi (10-20 min drive).

Ride-hail: Uber and local taxi services available. SW Taxis in Wadebridge- and Parnells Taxis in Bodmin- offer reliable service. Pre-booking recommended for early morning or peak times.

Public transit: Go Cornwall Bus routes 11, 11S, 90, 92, 94, 95 serve the Royal Cornwall Showground stop. Route 94 runs from. The Platt in Wadebridge to the Showground every 30 minutes (6 min journey, ~£2). Bodmin Parkway station (12 miles) is the nearest railway station, with bus 11 connecting to Wadebridge.

Parking: Free on-site parking for thousands of cars at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre, with designated disabled parking close to the halls. Traffic stewards direct vehicles.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: March

Temperature: 6°C – 10°C (43°F – 49°F)

Seasonality: Rain is common with a 32% daily chance; around 8 rain days in March.

Packing: Pack a waterproof coat, layers, and comfortable footwear. The venue is mostly indoors, but walking between car parks and halls may be outdoors.

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at venue, park, and collect badge
10:00Show opens – visit key exhibitors, taste products, and compare suppliers
13:00Lunch break – on-site catering or nearby options in Wadebridge
14:00Continue meetings with suppliers, attend any scheduled demonstrations or networking
17:00Show closes (Day 1) – depart or attend evening networking
10:00Day 2 – revisit exhibitors, finalise orders, and follow up on leads
16:00Show closes – departure

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Tuesday 2 March (Day 1)

Day 1 typically has the highest energy, with all exhibitors present and fresh product launches. It offers the fullest range of networking opportunities and access to exhibitors before they become busy with order processing on Day 2. The show runs 10:00am–5:00pm on Tuesday, giving visitors a full day to explore

Review show objectives and set budget — Define what you want to achieve (new suppliers, product comparisons, networking) and set a realistic budget for travel, accommodation, and on-site spending.

Register for free trade entry — Pre-register online to avoid queues and ensure badge is ready on arrival. Registration is free for trade buyers

Book travel and accommodation — Secure hotel bookings early—Wadebridge and surrounding areas fill up quickly. Consider Travelodge Wadebridge, Molesworth Arms, or premium options in Rock.

Review exhibitor list and floor plan — Identify must-see exhibitors and new product launches. Plan your route to maximise time. Floor plan is available from the organiser on request

Prepare questions and brief team — Draft specific questions for suppliers (e.g., pricing, minimum orders, delivery times). If bringing colleagues, assign roles (e.g., tasting, equipment, business services).

Check weather and pack accordingly — March in Cornwall is cool and damp; pack layers, a waterproof coat, and comfortable footwear for walking between halls.

Confirm travel and finalise schedule — Double-check train/bus times or driving route. Set alarms for early arrival—doors open at 10:00am.

Arrive early, collect badge, and hit the floor — Arrive at least 30 minutes before opening to park and collect your badge. Start with priority exhibitors first.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day