Who should attend the Independent Hotel Show?

The show is dedicated exclusively to the luxury, boutique and independent hotel sector, bringing together hotel owners, general managers and senior decision-makers. It is also relevant for interior designers, procurement managers, head chefs, and operations directors working in independent hotels

Is registration free?

Trade registration is complimentary for qualified hoteliers, interior designers, and industry professionals. Suppliers and non-qualifying professionals may be subject to a fee. All registrations are vetted by the organiser

How do I register for the event?

Registration is open via the official event website at independenthotelshow.co.uk. Pre-registration is required; on-site registration may not be available

What are the show opening times?

The show runs from 10:00 to 17:00 on both days, 5-6 October 2026

Is the event open to the public?

No, the Independent Hotel Show is a trade-only event. Proof of professional status (e.g., business card) may be required for badge collection

What is the theme for 2026?

The 2026 theme is 'Shaping Tomorrow', exploring how hospitality businesses can embrace innovation while preserving individuality and exceptional service

What are the main content stages?

The show features three dedicated stages: The Hotel Business Stage (in partnership with eviivo), The Innovation Stage, and The Social Business Space (sponsored by Zennio)

Are there awards associated with the event?

Yes, the Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, return for 2026 to celebrate excellence across the independent hotel sector

Independent Hotel Show | TradeShowIntel

Event overview

Overview

The Independent Hotel Show is the UK's leading event dedicated to the luxury and boutique hotel sector. The 2026 edition will take place at Olympia London, bringing together over 280 carefully selected suppliers and thousands of independent hotel owners, general managers, and senior hospitality professionals.

The show offers a curated platform for discovering innovative products, from interior design and furniture to cutting-edge technology and guest amenities. In addition to the exhibition, visitors can engage with an extensive seminar programme featuring industry experts, networking opportunities, and dedicated feature areas designed to inspire and inform

TL;DR

1Over 280 premium suppliers showcase design, tech, and F&B solutions tailored for independent hotels
2Free-to-attend educational seminars and panel discussions with leading industry experts
3Dedicated feature areas like the Design Gallery and The Boutique provide immersive inspiration
4The event serves as the primary annual networking hub for the UK's independent hotel
5Focus on practical innovation and revenue-boosting strategies for boutique properties

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Hotel owners and operators

General Managers and senior hotel executives

Interior designers and design consultants

Procurement and purchasing managers

Head Chefs and F&B directors

Operations directors

Revenue managers

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Luxury furniture and lighting manufacturers

Interior design and fit-out specialists

Bathroom and sanitary ware suppliers

Textile and soft furnishings brands

Hotel technology and software providers (PMS, booking engines)

Guest amenity and toiletry suppliers

F&B equipment and service providers

Art and décor curators

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Design & Décor – furniture, lighting, soft furnishings, or interior design solutions that enhance hotel aesthetics

Technology – guest experience platforms, in-room entertainment, smart controls, or operational software like PMS

Amenities & Toiletries – premium, sustainable, or bespoke products that elevate the in-room experience

Food & Drink – artisanal, local, or luxury food and beverage options suitable for minibars, breakfasts, or on-site dining

Wellness & Spa – equipment, products, or services that support the growing demand for wellness-focused stays

Services – marketing, consultancy, training, or sustainability services that support hotel operations and guest satisfaction

Bedroom, bathroom, spa, and public space solutions

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Olympia London

Hammersmith Rd, W14 8UX London, United Kingdom

Facilities

Parking

Olympia London only offers parking for Blue Badge holders attending events, and this must be booked in advance. There are stringent parking restrictions on surrounding local streets, and the venue falls within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

Accessibility

Olympia London reports it is fully accessible. However, user reviews on independent accessibility guides have noted occasional issues with lifts and disabled toilets. Venue contact: 020 7385 1200

On-site shuttle

Olympia London does not operate an on-site shuttle service. The venue is directly connected to Kensington (Olympia) station and is within walking distance of several tube stations

Food options

Canopy Rooftop, Pillar Hall

On-site dining

Parking: Olympia London does not have its own public parking. Limited paid street parking and nearby car parks (e.g., Olympia Car Park on Maclise Road) may be available. Visitors are strongly advised to use public transport

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

10:00 AM –5:00 PM (both days)

Supplier / Non-qualifying industry professional
£199 + VAT. Registration pending review; suppliers must pay or registration rejected
£199.00

Ticket info

Badge collection

Badges issued after online registration and vetting; proof of business (e.g. business card) may be required

Ticket notes

Free for hoteliers and interior designers; suppliers must pay. All registrations vetted. No on-site registration details provided

Who runs the show

Organisers

Montgomery Group

Organiser

Website

What's on

Programme

Discussion

Fireside Chat

Event days

TBA

Typical time

Official agenda Updated Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Monday, Oct 5, 2026

Hotel Performance Drivers Across the UK & Europe

Keynote

Hotel Business StageSpeakers: Michal Rao

Fireside Chat: Tourist Taxes & Implications for Hoteliers

Fireside Chat

Hotel Business StageSpeakers: Allen Simpson, Eloise Hanson

Retaining Independent Identity Within a Management Company

Panel

Hotel Business StageSpeakers: Edward Adshead, Thomas Greenall

Making the Most of AA Accreditation

Power Hour (10-Min)

Hotel Business StageSpeakers: Simon Numphud

Evolving Behaviour of UK Luxury Travellers

Panel

Innovation StageSpeakers: Davin Reid-Montanaro

Forces Influencing Luxury Travel Today

Discussion

Innovation StageSpeakers: Marie-France Perrel

Preparing Hotels for the Next Generation of Travellers

Panel

Innovation StageSpeakers: Nuno César de Sá, Rose Webb

Future of Flexible Hotel Spaces

Panel

Innovation StageSpeakers: Vicky Doe, Ben Harper, Francesca Toman, Jordan Parke, Matt Hulme

Building Manager Confidence Around Mental Health

Workshop

Social Business SpaceSpeakers: Camila Woods

Building Business Beyond Bedrooms

Workshop

Social Business SpaceSpeakers: Shonali Devereaux

Protecting Margins & Generating Pre-Arrival Revenue

Power Hour (10-Min)

Social Business SpaceSpeakers: Ryan Haynes

Topic tracks

Hotel BusinessInnovation & DesignOperations & People

Awards

Independent Hotel Show Awards 2026

Annual

Now in their 14th year, the Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, celebrate innovation, excellence and rising talent across the UK's independent hospitality sector. The awards spotlight hotels, individuals and teams that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding guest experiences and contribute meaningfully to the industry. The ceremony takes place on the first day of the show, 5 October 2026, and includes a special recognition for one individual's outstanding contribution to the independent hotel sector. Entries are free and closed 19 June 2026

Hotel Rising StarHotel Design of the YearIndependent Hotel of the Year

source

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 3,000 visitors · 200 exhibitors

Organiser has not published forecasted exhibitor or visitor counts for the 2026 edition

Forecast — not final

Visitors

8,000

Exhibitors

200

Floor area (sqm)

18,000

Exhibitor countries

Growth over time

Edition recap

The Independent Hotel Show 2025, in partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers, returned to Olympia London on 6-7 October, drawing independent hoteliers, suppliers and industry pioneers for two days of learning and networking. This year's programme offered more than 45 expert-led sessions covering luxury design, artificial intelligence, operational efficiency and sustainability. The show's theme was 'Redefining Luxury'.

The Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, were announced on the first evening. Danny Pecorelli (Managing Director, Exclusive Collection) received the Outstanding Contribution award. Grantley Hall was named Independent Hotel of the Year. Alexander Williams (Royal Lancaster London) won Hotel Rising Star. The Hotel Design of the Year award went to The Woodland Suite Experience at The Montenotte (Co. Cork, Ireland), designed by Róisín Lafferty and Henry J Lyons Architects.

Sessions spanned three stages and the Social Business Space. Highlights included a keynote on hotel performance drivers from STR's Michal Rao, a fireside chat on tourist taxes featuring UKHospitality CEO Allen Simpson, and panels on evolving luxury traveller behaviour, preparing hotels for the next generation, and flexible hotel spaces. Sustainability was integrated across the programme without a dedicated ESG hub.

Visitor and exhibitor feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the quality of networking, the calibre of suppliers, and the practical insights from speakers. The show will return on 5-6 October 2026.

New this edition

1
Hosted Buyer Programme
New for 2026, the show introduces a hosted buyer programme offering curated one-to-one meetings between hospitality suppliers and qualified hotel owners and operators
Source

Testimonials

Another great Independent Hotel Show where I meet many relevant suppliers, looked at many innovative ideas and heard from some of the best industry experts. The day is also a great opportunity to meet many fellow hoteliers and restaurateurs and cross checked how everyone is doing and discuss trends for our industry. This year, the show was even better for me and for Grantley Hall. We won Independent Hotel of the Year. The cherry on the cake!
Nuno César de Sá · General Manager · Grantley Hall · 2025

The Independent Hotel Show was a superbly organised and brilliant event, with world class products and services, cocooned in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The seminars were insightful and the information we gained was invaluable. Well done to everyone involved!
Karen La Borde Bowman · Owner · Benchwood House · 2025

The Independent Hotel Show is already in the calendar for next year. It never fails to deliver helpful nuggets of wisdom from various experts, to demonstrate new ideas and industry trends as well as enable me to catch up with different suppliers and see what new systems are emerging on the market
Chris Graveling · Owner · The Grove Cromer · 2025

The Independent Hotel Show was truly a rich experience for us at Old Town House by Ezestays. We had the chance to connect with many new exhibitors and potential suppliers bringing innovation, luxury, and technology, exactly what we're always looking for to keep enhancing both our guest and staff experience
Mark Ezekiel · Hotel Owner · Ezestays · 2025

This year's Independent Hotel Show in London was nothing short of inspiring. From innovative hospitality tech to beautifully curated design showcases, the event was a vibrant celebration of hotel excellence. As a General Manager, I found the networking opportunities invaluable and the speaker sessions refreshingly insightful, particularly those focused on guest experience and sustainability
Jordan Hughes · General Manager · The Lygon Arms · 2025

Next edition outlook

2026-10-05 – 2026-10-06

confirmed

The 2026 Independent Hotel Show, themed 'Shaping Tomorrow', builds on the success of the 2025 edition with a new Hosted Buyer Programme and an expanded focus on innovation, design, and operational excellence. The event continues its partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers and the Independent Hotel Show Awards in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts. The 2026 edition will feature dedicated content across three stages exploring technology, sustainability, and guest experience, positioning itself as essential for anyone shaping the future of independent hospitality

Introduction of a Hosted Buyer Programme for curated one-to-one meetings between suppliers and qualified hotel owners Enhanced focus on AI and technology applications in hotel operations and guest acquisition Deepened integration of sustainability strategies tied to commercial outcomes Expanded design content with partners Design Command, Merav Bustan Design, and TUNTU Design

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2025 Independent Hotel Show delivered a high-quality, targeted experience for independent hoteliers and suppliers. The show featured over 45 expert-led sessions across three stages, covering critical topics from AI and operational efficiency to design and sustainability. The Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, celebrated sector excellence with Grantley Hall winning Independent Hotel of the Year. Attendee feedback consistently praised the calibre of suppliers, the relevance of the seminar content, and the valuable networking opportunities, reinforcing the event's position as the premier annual gathering for the UK's boutique and independent hotel sector

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The show attracted a high-calibre audience of independent hotel owners, general managers, senior decision-makers, and interior designers. Attendees were actively seeking innovative products, practical operational insights, and industry connections. Testimonials from hotel owners and GMs highlight the relevance of the content and the quality of networking opportunities, with many confirming they plan to return for the next edition

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitor ROI was driven by direct access to qualified buyers actively sourcing products and services for their properties. The show's curated nature meant suppliers connected with senior decision-makers from the luxury and boutique segment. 200-plus suppliers showcased across the exhibition floor generated meaningful leads and brand awareness. Testimonials from attendees indicate high levels of engagement with exhibitors

Intelligence

Market context

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

United Kingdom / Europe

Why it matters

The Independent Hotel Show London is the UK's premier marketplace and knowledge hub for the independent and boutique hotel sector, a segment experiencing significant growth driven by strong domestic and international tourism demand (forecasted at 45.5 million inbound visits in 2026). The show directly addresses the sector's core challenges: leveraging AI for operational efficiency, integrating sustainability with profitability, and using design and F&B as strategic differentiators. For buyers, it provides curated access to over 200 suppliers of design, technology, and amenities. For exhibitors, it offers direct, pre-qualified access to the decision-makers shaping the future of UK independent hospitality

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Branded Residences and the Home-Indoors Movement

Hospitality is increasingly blurring the line between luxury hotel and residential living. Branded residences are entering the market at scale, bringing home-like comfort into hotel interiors and creating new design opportunities

Source

Wellness Beyond the Spa and the Architecture of Rest

Wellness has moved beyond spa facilities to include compact, in-room wellness solutions and a focus on sleep science. Understanding neuroscience to design better rest experiences is becoming a key differentiator

Source

Flexible and Wellbeing-Led Hotel Design

Design is shifting to create flexible, emotionally intelligent spaces. Panel discussions at the Independent Hotel Show focus on 'spaces without boundaries,' interiors for wellbeing, and the link between design and asset value

Source

AI and Automation for Guest Discovery and Operations

Artificial intelligence is reshaping hotel operations and guest acquisition, from conversational search to AI assistants. Practical sessions on AI, location data, and automation are central to the 2026 programme

Source

Sustainability Tied to Commercial Outcomes

Sustainability is no longer just a commitment; it is being integrated with cost-saving and revenue-generation strategies. Sessions address energy reduction and commercial sustainability approaches

Source

UK Boutique and Independent Sector Growth

The UK boutique hotel sector is expanding, driven by inbound visits forecast at 45.5 million in 2026. New openings focus on heritage refurbishments, city expansions, and lifestyle-led accommodation

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Independent Hotel Show London reveals 2026 seminar programme

Read

Independent Hotel Show 2026 looks to the future

Read

Independent Hotel Show 2026 explores the future of independent hospitality

Read

UK tourism growth fuels hotel openings

Read

UK & European Independent Hotel and Hospitality Event Circuit

September – November 2026

The Independent Hotel Show London (5-6 October 2026) is part of a broader circuit of events targeting boutique, luxury, and independent hoteliers across Europe and globally. It sits alongside its sister shows in Amsterdam (April 2026), Miami (September 2026), and Munich (September 2026), as well as complementary hospitality events such as EquipHotel Paris (November 2026) and World Travel Market London (November 2026)

16–17 Sep 2026

Independent Hotel Show Munich 2026

Munich, Germany

The third edition of the show, targeting the German, Austrian, and Swiss hotelier community. Features 150+ exhibitors and 2,000+ visitors

website

16–17 Sep 2026

Independent Hotel Show Miami 2026

Miami Beach, United States

A business event for boutique, luxury, and independent hotel operators in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. 200+ brands exhibiting

website

29–30 Sep 2026

Hotel & Resort Innovation Expo 2026

London, United Kingdom

One of the UK's leading events dedicated to bringing fresh ideas and solutions to the hospitality industry, taking place at ExCeL London

5–6 Oct 2026

Independent Hotel Show London 2026

London, United Kingdom

The UK's flagship business event for the luxury and boutique hotel community. 200+ exhibiting brands and 3,000+ buyers expected

website

2–5 Nov 2026

EquipHotel Paris 2026

Paris, France

Europe's largest hospitality trade show, drawing 80,000 professionals and 1,200 exhibitors. Covers design, wellbeing, and technology

website

3–5 Nov 2026

World Travel Market London 2026

London, United Kingdom

The world's most influential travel and tourism event, bringing together leaders, ministers, and industry professionals

website

30 Nov – 3 Dec 2026

ILTM Cannes 2026

Cannes, France

The flagship of the ILTM Collection, a high-end luxury travel event with pre-scheduled appointments and networking

website

September – October 2026

Independent Hotel Show Munich 2026Independent Hotel Show Miami 2026Hotel & Resort Innovation Expo 2026Independent Hotel Show London 2026

Peak season for independent hotel-focused shows in Europe and North America, with London acting as the UK anchor

November – December 2026

EquipHotel Paris 2026World Travel Market London 2026ILTM Cannes 2026

Major global hospitality and travel events, offering broader industry exposure beyond the independent hotel segment

Event dates and locations are based on organiser announcements and trade press sources. Some dates are subject to change

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

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

LHR

London Heathrow

Heathrow Express to Paddington (15 min) then District Line to Kensington (Olympia) is a common route. Alternatively, use the Piccadilly Line to Hammersmith then a bus or Overground. The venue is within the ULEZ zone

Approximately 14 miles (23 km)

to venue

25-45 minutes by car or taxi

by car

LGW

London Gatwick

Gatwick Express to Victoria (30 min) then District Line to Kensington (Olympia) is the main rail option. Southern Rail also operates services to Clapham Junction connecting to the Overground to Kensington (Olympia)

Approximately 33 miles (53 km)

to venue

60-90 minutes by car or taxi

by car

LCY

London City

DLR to Bank then Central Line to Shepherd's Bush, then Overground to Kensington (Olympia)

Approximately 12 miles (19 km)

to venue

40-60 minutes by car or taxi

by car

LTN

London Luton

Thameslink to St Pancras, then Victoria or Piccadilly Line to Hammersmith, then bus or Overground to Kensington (Olympia)

Approximately 32 miles (51 km)

to venue

60-90 minutes by car or taxi

by car

Hotel tiers

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

Luxury / 5-star

Kensington, Chelsea, Mayfair

USD 350–800 / night

High-end hotels with full-service amenities, fine dining, and spa facilities. Close to Olympia and central London attractions

Mid-range / 3-4 star

Earl's Court, Hammersmith, Shepherd's Bush

USD 150–300 / night

Wide selection of comfortable hotels, aparthotels, and business hotels within walking distance or short tube ride of Olympia

Budget / 1-2 star

West London, zones 2-3

USD 60–120 / night

Hostels, basic B&Bs, and budget chain hotels accessible via public transport. Basic facilities but good value

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

London Underground (Tube) District Line

Estimated costPay as you go: £2.70 (peak) / £2.30 (off-peak) with contactless/Oyster. Daily cap zones 1-2: £8.10

Best forKensington (Olympia) station is directly connected to the venue. On weekdays, the District Line service to/from Earl's Court is limited; change at West Brompton for a 2-minute Overground journey to Kensington (Olympia). On weekends, a direct service runs from Earl's Court to Kensington (Olympia). Check TfL status page for service updates

The District Line (Green) runs through central London and connects to major rail termini. Weekend engineering works may affect service

London Overground

Estimated costVaries by zone; contactless/Oyster accepted with daily cap

Best forKensington (Olympia) station is served by the Mildmay Line with frequent trains between Stratford and Clapham Junction stopping at Kensington (Olympia). Southern Rail also operates services between Kensington Olympia and Watford Junction

Provides links to Clapham Junction, Willesden Junction, and Stratford. Check TfL for real-time departures

Bus

Estimated cost£1.75 per ride. Daily cap: £5.25

Best forMultiple bus routes stop near Olympia: 9, 23, 27, 28, 49, 391. Night services N9, N23, N27, N28 also available

Buses are a cheaper option but can be slower in traffic. Use TfL app for route planning

Taxi / Ride-hailing

Estimated costHeathrow to Olympia: approx. £40-£60; Central London to Olympia: £15-£30

Best forDoor-to-door from any location. Black cabs can be hailed on the street or booked. Uber, Bolt, and other ride-hailing apps are widely available

Black cabs are licensed and metered. Ride-hailing apps show fixed prices upfront. Expect surge pricing during peak hours and after the show closes

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)	Citizens of most non-EU/EEA countries not eligible for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or visa-free entry	—	Standard: 3 weeks; Priority: 5 working days (additional fee); Super Priority: 1 working day (additional fee)
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Citizens of specified non-European countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel)	—	Usually a few hours to 3 working days

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel, and several other countries may not require a visa for short business visits, but most will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from 2026. Visa-free entry generally permits stays of up to 6 months for business purposes. Always verify specific nationality requirements on the official UK government website before travel

The United Kingdom accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary admission of commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibition goods. Carnets are valid for up to one year. Users must ensure goods are re-exported within the validity period and comply with UK customs regulations. It is recommended to contact the UK Border Force or a customs broker for specific requirements related to exhibition goods

Official visa page

Weather

London in early October is typically cool and mild. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). Rain is possible, so bring a waterproof coat or umbrella. Layering is recommended as venue halls can vary in temperature

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Kensington (Olympia) station is directly connected to the venue, served by the London Overground's Mildmay Line and Southern Rail services. The District Line runs between Earls Court and Kensington Olympia on weekends; on weekdays, change at West Brompton for a quick 2-minute Overground journey. Barons Court (District/Piccadilly) and West Kensington (District) are a 9-12 minute walk, and High Street Kensington (Circle/District) is a 12-minute walk or short bus ride. Local bus routes 9, 23, 27, 28, 49, and 391 stop nearby, with night services N9, N23, N27, and N28. The venue has on-site hotels (Hyatt Regency London Olympia, citizenM London Olympia) and is close to Kensington Palace and the museums

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Doing Business in London

London is a global business hub known for its fast-paced yet professional environment. The independent hotel sector is highly networked, and relationships matter. Arrive on time for meetings and networking sessions. The dress code for the show is typically smart casual or business attire, though hoteliers often dress in line with their brand aesthetic. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard for introductions

Business Etiquette & Networking

Business cards remain a standard and are exchanged frequently. When networking, it is common to discuss business goals and potential synergies directly. The show offers designated spaces like the Social Business Space for more relaxed, peer-to-peer conversations, ideal for building deeper connections. Be mindful of sustainable practices; London businesses are increasingly conscious of environmental impact

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: London Heathrow (LHR) or London Gatwick (LGW) are the most common international airports for this event

Book flights well in advance for October travel, as autumn is a popular period for business and leisure travel to London. Heathrow and Gatwick have extensive connections. Compare fares on multi-airline search engines

Visa

Most non-UK citizens travelling for business (e.g., attending the Independent Hotel Show) require either a Standard Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), depending on their nationality. The UK imposes border controls but is not in the Schengen Area. Attendees are strongly advised to apply well in advance of travel

Processing: Standard Visitor Visa: up to 3 weeks; ETA: a few hours to 3 working days

The UK government website provides a comprehensive tool to check if you need a visa and to start the application process. An invitation letter from the organiser (Montgomery Group) may be helpful for a business visa application. ETA applications are processed digitally. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay

Official

Hotels

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

Areas to stay

Kensington · Chelsea · Earl's Court · Hammersmith · Shepherd's Bush · South Kensington

Luxury

£270-£620 per night

Mid-range

£115-£230 per night

Budget

£45-£90 per night

Transport

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

Airport → venue: Heathrow: Heathrow Express to Paddington (15 min), then District Line to Kensington (Olympia). Gatwick: Gatwick Express to Victoria (30 min), then District Line to Kensington (Olympia)

Hotel → venue: Use District Line to Kensington (Olympia) or bus routes 9, 23, 27, 28, 49 to Olympia

Ride-hail: Uber, Bolt, and black cabs available. Approx £15-£30 from central London to Olympia

Public transit: Oyster card or contactless payment recommended. Daily cap: £8.10 (zones 1-2). Buses: £1.75 per ride, daily cap £5.25

Parking: Olympia has no public parking. Limited street parking and nearby car parks available. Venue in ULEZ zone

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October

Temperature: 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F)

Seasonality: Rainfall is moderate; expect occasional rain

Packing: Pack layers including a light waterproof jacket or umbrella. Business attire for the show; comfortable shoes for walking

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at Olympia, collect badge and show guide
09:00Tour the exhibition floor, focusing on priority exhibitors
11:00Attend keynote session at the Hotel Business Stage
12:30Networking lunch at The Social Business Space
14:00Attend Innovation Stage session on AI and hotel operations
15:30Revisit exhibitors for follow-up demos or meetings
17:00Show closes. Attend the Independent Hotel Show Awards (first day only)

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: 2026-10-05

The first day (5 October) features the full exhibition and seminar programme, plus the Independent Hotel Show Awards ceremony in the evening. This provides the maximum opportunity for sourcing, learning, and networking in a single day

T-90

Define clear objectives: what do you want to achieve (source products, find partners, learn trends)? — Align with your business goals for the year

T-60

Register for the event online and confirm your trade ticket; check if you qualify for the hosted buyer programme — Registration is free for qualified hoteliers and designers; supplier tickets incur a fee

T-30

Review the seminar programme and exhibitor list; build a personal agenda — Programme features three stages: Hotel Business Stage, Innovation Stage, and Social Business Space

T-14

Book travel and accommodation; confirm parking arrangements (public transport is recommended) — Olympia has no public parking; venue is in ULEZ zone

T-7

Download the show app (if available) and schedule meetings with key exhibitors — Check official website for app availability

T-1

Prepare a list of questions for exhibitors and pack business cards, a notepad, and comfortable shoes — Wear smart casual or business attire

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day