When is Kent Construction EXPO 2026?

Thursday 1st October 2026, from 9:00am to 4:00pm

How much does it cost to attend?

It is FREE to register and attend

Where is the event held?

The Kent Event Centre, Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3JF The exhibition and conference take place in the Maidstone Hall and John Hendry Pavilion

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is ample, free parking available onsite

You can register for free via the official registration link:

Are there any networking events?

Yes, there is a Networking Breakfast (ticketed), a Drinks Reception sponsored by DHA (ticketed), and a Gala Dinner sponsored by Select Technology (ticketed)

Is there a code of conduct?

Yes, the event is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and professional environment. The Code of Conduct is available here: https://msgfocus.com/files/amf_revolution_events/workspace_3/REV_Branded_-Code_of_Conduct.pdf.pdf

How can I contact the organisers?

You can email constructionexpo@revolution-events.com or call 01892 820930. For exhibitor-specific queries, contact Bree at bree@revolution-events.com or 01892 820933

Kent Construction Expo | TradeShowIntel

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at Kent Construction Expo include A4G, Adkins Consultants Ltd, ADM Computing, Akita and Alliance Tool Hire.

A4G
Adkins Consultants Ltd
ADM Computing
Akita
Alliance Tool Hire

Event overview

Overview

For over a decade, the Kent Construction EXPO has been the largest event of its kind and the go-to event for ambitious construction professionals in the South-East. Produced by the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and staged by Revolution Events, Kent Construction EXPO features multiple conference streams, a dynamic exhibition, and prime networking opportunities.

Join us in celebrating innovation, knowledge, and connection as we build a brighter future together. The event brings together delegates and exhibitors from right across the industry including design, build and product innovation

TL;DR

1The largest construction industry event in the South-East, running for over a decade
2Free to attend with a dynamic exhibition of over 150 exhibitors and a high-level.
3Produced by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and staged by Revolution Events
4Features a 'Meet the Buyer' programme connecting developers and contractors with pre-matched suppliers
5Includes a dedicated Student Initiative to inspire and recruit the future construction workforce

Why visit

The Kent Construction EXPO is the essential event for construction professionals in the South-East. Attend to discover the latest innovations in building materials, renewable energy, building systems, and digital construction. Network with over 150 exhibitors and industry peers, gain fresh insights from a high-level conference with multiple streams and over. It's a free, one-day opportunity to connect, learn, and drive your business forward

Why exhibit

Exhibiting at the Kent Construction EXPO provides direct access to the largest gathering of construction industry professionals in the South-East. Connect with key decision-makers, including top contractors, house builders, architects, and developers. Showcase your products and solutions to a targeted audience, generate high-quality leads, and raise your brand profile within the regional. With over 150 exhibitors and a reputation as the go-to event for ambitious professionals, it offers an unrivalled platform to.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Architects and design firms

Main contractors and top house builders

Developers and housing associations

Merchants and distribution agents

Local councils and government bodies

Education and training providers

Hospitality and retail sector professionals

Construction consultants and professional services

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Building materials and product manufacturers

Renewable energy and building systems providers

Plant, tool, and equipment hire companies

Professional services (legal, insurance, planning)

Digital construction and software/CAD/IT providers

Waste management and environmental services

Subcontractors and specialist trades

Training and apprenticeship providers

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Building Materials

Renewable Energy

Building Systems

Finishing Products & Materials

Interior Design

Building Information Modelling

Water Recycling

Fittings

External Works

Waste Management & Efficiency

Professional Services

Software & Tech/ CAD/ IT

Security & Fire

Cleaning/ Facilities Management

Substructures

Building Completion

Contractors

Hire providers

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Maidstone HallJohn Hendry Pavilion

Kent Event Centre

Kent Showground, ME14 3JF Detling, United Kingdom

Entrances & gates

Main Entrance

Maidstone HallJohn Hendry Pavilion

Main entrance for the Kent Event Centre. The exhibition and conference take place in the Maidstone Hall and John Hendry Pavilion

Facilities

Parking

Free on-site parking is available for up to 30,000 vehicles . Disabled parking spaces are available on request

30,000 spaces ·

Accessibility

The venue provides accessible parking, toilets, and step-free access in many areas- . Lifts are available where required. Assistance dogs are welcome

Charging points

High power outlets are available throughout the venue- , and Wi-Fi is complimentary , suggesting that charging facilities for devices are accessible in common areas

Food options

On-site Catering

On-site dining

Parking: Ample, free parking is available onsite for up to 30,000 vehicles. Disabled spaces are available on request – please provide 7 days' notice to reserve a space on hardstanding near the event entrance, as general parking may be on grassy areas. If you are in the John Hendry Pavilion, please head to Car Park B

Gate: The back gate on Scragged Oak Road is no longer in use. Please enter via the main entrance

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Free registration

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

9:00 AM –4:00 PM

Ticket info

Badge collection

You will receive your badge a few weeks prior to the event. Your badge's barcode and QR code may be scanned throughout the day, including when you attend a conference session and by exhibitors in the exhibition area

Ticket notes

The event is free to attend for visitors from across the industry, including those involved in design, build and product innovation. Under 16s are not permitted onsite

Build-up & tear-down

Setup starts30 Sep 2026

Setup ends30 Sep 2026

Teardown starts1 Oct 2026

Teardown ends1 Oct 2026

Who runs the show

Organisers

Revolution Events

Stager and Event Organiser

Website

General Enquiries

Event Support

Email Call Website

Bree

Exhibitor Support (Stand Plans & RAMS)

Email Call

Sponsorship Team

Sponsorship Enquiries

Lois

Registration Support

Email Call

What's on

Programme

Breakfast Panel

Keynote

Event days

08:00–14:30

Typical time

Speakers

Abena Akuffo-Kelly

Mayor of Folkstone 2024/25; Head of Training, People and Culture @ DIIC Diversity and Inclusion In Construction

Hony Premlal

Founder & Chief Executive Officer; Chair of Women in Social Housing (WISH) @ Hony Premlal Consultancy

Jo James OBE

Chief Executive @ Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

Welcome Address & Opening Keynote: Where Are The Development And Construction Opportunities Across Kent?

Joshua Armstrong

Senior Framework Manager @ Willmott Dixon

Market Volatility: A View From A Contractor, Project Manager And Framework

Paul Considine

Managing Director, Civil & Structural Engineers & Transport Planners @ Considine

Development Planning Lessons

Jonathan Buckwell

Director @ DHA Planning

What's the future of the planning system in England?

Mark Bewsey

Director @ DHA Planning

What's the future of the planning system in England?

Martin White

Sustainability Consultant @ Green Business and Construction Hub

Net Zero in Practice: Building Credible Pathways for Construction

Jon Alford

Sustainability and Data Specialist @ Auditel

Net Zero in Practice: Building Credible Pathways for Construction

Steve Gravenell

Director @ On Grade Earthworks and Stabilisation Ltd

Net Zero in Practice: Building Credible Pathways for Construction

Huda Lohiya

Area Civil Engineer @ Tensar

Net Zero in Practice: Building Credible Pathways for Construction

Vanessa Good

Business Development Manager @ Scape Group Limited

Market Volatility: A View From A Contractor, Project Manager And Framework

Joe Martin

Managing Director @ MKA Planning & Architecture

Development Planning Lessons

Mark Chandler

Managing Director @ Stonewells

Rachel Armstrong

Sustainability Innovator, Professor of Regenerative Architecture

Lunchtime Keynote (2023)

David Smith

Acting CEO @ South East Consortium

Winning Work in 2026: Frameworks & Bid Strategy

Phil Webb

Managing Director @ Walker Construction

Local Not London: Utilising a local supply chain

Thursday, Oct 1, 2026

Time TBA

Market Volatility: A View From A Contractor, Project Manager And Framework

Session

Time TBA

Development Planning Lessons

Session

Time TBA

What's the future of the planning system in England?

Session

Time TBA

Understanding a Public Buyers Journey

Session

08:00

Networking Breakfast & Panel Discussion: Local Not London, Is That Too Much To Ask?

Breakfast Panel

09:25

Welcome Address & Opening Keynote: Where Are The Development And Construction Opportunities Across Kent?

Keynote

10:30 – 11:00

Net Zero in Practice: Building Credible Pathways for Construction

Panel Discussion

14:00 – 14:30

Kent's Role in Shaping the Future Workforce

Session

Topic tracks

Build 4.0: the Digital & Innovation RevolutionSustainable FuturesStrengthening the Future WorkforceBuilding Safety Act: Navigating the Next Phase

Awards

Best Stand Award

Annual

Award presented to exhibitors for the best small stand (up to 6m²) and best large stand (over 6m²), judged by the Chief Executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce based on impact, eye-catching design, creativity, and innovation in stand layout, giveaways, and messaging

Best Small Stand (up to 6m²)Best Large Stand (over 6m²)

source

Previous edition

Current edition

2026

No official statistics have been published for the 2026 edition

Forecast — not final

Visitors

2,000

Exhibitors

180

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Student Initiative
Launched in 2025 to attract students from colleges and universities across Kent, providing career exploration and employer connections
Source

Next edition outlook

2026-10-01 – 2026-10-01

confirmed

The 2026 Kent Construction EXPO is set to return on Thursday 1 October 2026 at the Kent Event Centre [11†L14-L16][12†L18-L19]. Building on the success of the 2025 record-breaking edition, the event will continue to serve as the South East's largest regional construction event, bringing together contractors, developers, consultants, suppliers, and public-sector stakeholders [12†L13-L15]. The Student Initiative will be expanded to help more students connect with local employers, with organisers consulting with colleges, exhibitors, and visitors to make it even more impactful [5†L12-L14]. The event will feature a major supplier exhibition, a CPD-accredited conference programme focused on regional growth, skills development, and upcoming project pipelines, and the Meet the Buyer programme [12†L16-L17]. Against a backdrop of market uncertainty and skills shortages, the EXPO provides a vital platform for networking, learning, and doing business [12†L16-L17]

Expansion of the Student Initiative to engage more students and educators [5†L12-L14] Continued growth of the conference programme with a focus on digital transformation and sustainability Enhanced Meet the Buyer programme with more pre-scheduled appointments Potential new features based on 2025 feedback, including improved visitor filtering tools

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2025 Kent Construction EXPO was the busiest and most successful edition to date, with exhibitors describing it as a 'resounding success' and a 'fantastic experience' [6†L5][1†L14-L15]. The event attracted 2,000+ industry professionals and 180+ exhibitors, showcasing the latest products, technologies, and services across construction, civil engineering, digital innovation, and sustainability [8†L19-L21]. Visitor numbers increased by 13% compared to 2024 [7†L8-L9]. The launch of the Student Initiative, in partnership with South East Consortium, brought 109 students from colleges and universities across Kent, helping to bridge the skills gap and inspire the next generation of construction professionals [5†L9-L10][5†L26-L32]. The event was praised for its 'buzzing' atmosphere, high-quality networking, and valuable insights from expert-led sessions [6†L21-L25]. Attendees left feeling 'inspired, energised, and more connected' to the local industry [6†L12-L14]

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 edition attracted a high-quality, decision-making audience across the entire construction supply chain. Attendees included main contractors, developers, architects, engineers, project managers, consultants, public-sector procurement professionals, and specialist suppliers [8†L41-L47]. 60% of visitors were first-time attendees, demonstrating strong new audience acquisition [7†L9]. The event's popularity was confirmed by 94% of visitors saying the EXPO met their objectives, and 99% indicating they would attend next year either as a visitor or exhibitor [7†L8-L10]. The atmosphere was described as 'buzzing' and 'energetic', with exhibitors reporting 'busy' stands and 'fantastic' engagement [1†L14-L15][3†L25][10†L8-L9]

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors reported strong ROI from the 2025 edition, with many describing it as the 'busiest and most successful event' they had seen [10†L8-L9]. The exhibition floor was 'full of engaging discussions' and provided 'valuable insights' into industry developments [0†L33-L35]. 95% of visitors said they were likely to do business with an organisation they met at the EXPO [7†L10-L11]. The Meet the Buyer programme delivered over 300 pre-scheduled appointments, directly facilitating new business connections [8†L22]. Exhibitors highlighted the quality of networking, with the Gala Dinner providing an 'excellent' opportunity to continue conversations and celebrate the success of the event [9†L8-L10]. Several exhibitors confirmed they would return for 2026 [10†L40-L41][6†L5-L6]

Intelligence

Market context

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

United Kingdom (South-East focus)

Why it matters

Kent Construction EXPO matters because it is the South-East's largest regional construction event, bringing together contractors, developers, consultants, suppliers and public-sector stakeholders under one roof. The event combines conferences, networking and a major supplier exhibition, with a strong focus on regional growth, skills development and upcoming project pipelines. For businesses operating across Kent, London and the wider South East, the expo offers direct engagement with local decision-makers and delivery partners. In a market characterised by cost pressures, labour shortages, regulatory change, and the need for digital and sustainable solutions, the EXPO provides a vital platform for networking, learning and doing business. With 94% of 2025 visitors reporting the event met their objectives and 95% saying they were likely to do business with an organisation they met at the EXPO, it offers proven ROI for both visitors and exhibitors

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Cost pressures remain elevated

Rising labour, material, and energy costs continue to challenge UK construction firms. Respondents expect construction costs to rise by 6.6% over the next 12 months, with materials costs projected to rise by 7.5% and tender prices by 5.6%, adding pressure to project viability and profit margins. Contractors are embedding contingencies into contracts and improving cost management to maintain margins

Source

Public projects anchor the market

Infrastructure, healthcare, education, and energy projects continue to provide a stable foundation for construction activity. While private housing and industrial sectors are recovering, commercial demand remains uneven. Government commitments give firms a pipeline, but converting this into work on site requires flexibility and careful planning

Source

Digital and AI tools support delivery

Technology is being adopted pragmatically, with BIM, digital twins, drones, IoT monitoring, and AI-assisted planning helping firms reduce risk, improve safety, and enhance efficiency. Technology is about smarter delivery, not growth, and firms that use digital tools effectively can make better real-time decisions and avoid costly rework

Source

Sustainability as a delivery requirement

Carbon reduction, energy efficiency, circular design, and whole-life carbon assessment are increasingly embedded in project planning. Low-carbon materials, energy-efficient designs, and retrofit initiatives are expected by clients and increasingly enforced by regulators, particularly in public sector and infrastructure projects

Source

Workforce and skills shortages intensify

Labour shortages remain a structural issue. Skilled trades, technicians, and supervisory roles are in short supply, with demographic trends and reduced migration inflows intensifying competition. Apprenticeships, retraining, and flexible working are essential to keep projects on track

Source

Mixed outlook with recovery expected from 2027

Construction activity is forecast to decline by 1% overall in 2026, reflecting market uncertainty and delayed investment decisions. However, the industry is expected to rebound strongly, with activity increasing by 13% between 2026 and 2028, driven by improving economic conditions and rising public sector investment

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

2026-08-06

UK Construction Activity Shows Signs of Stabilisation

The S&P Global UK Construction PMI rose to 44.7 in July 2026 from 38.4 in the previous month, indicating a slower pace of contraction. A larger portion of survey respondents predicted business expansion in the coming months than those anticipating a decline

Read

2026-06-22

Alarm bells ring as planning applications fall sharply

Contract award value fell for the fourth consecutive month in May 2026, dipping 16% to £4.8bn, the lowest value since the same time last year. New applications fell to just £5.2bn in April, down 37% from the previous year. Residential application value dipped 43% from Q1 to £2bn

Read

2026-06-17

Construction recovery on course despite rocky start to 2026

Glenigan's Summer 2026 Construction Forecast predicts construction activity will increase by 13% between 2026 and 2028, driven by improving economic conditions and rising public sector investment. Activity is forecast to decline by 1% in 2026 before surging by 11% in 2027

Read

2026-05-18

Geopolitical tensions continue to raise UK build costs – Savills

The Savills Build: Perspective index rose to +36 in early 2026. Geopolitical tensions and changes to steel trade tariffs from July 2026 have pushed up UK build costs, with most sectors expecting costs to increase and project timelines to lengthen

Read

2026-05-13

Property and Construction Outlook 2026 brings together Kent's industry leaders

Industry leaders from across Kent gathered for the annual Property and Construction Outlook 2026, hosted by Brachers, Crowe and Caxtons Property Consultants. The event highlighted continued strength in Kent's industrial, logistics, and science sectors, subdued office activity, and mixed residential fortunes

Read

2026-01-14

UK Construction Outlook 2026: Key trends shaping the year ahead

NatWest's forward-looking analysis highlights that the UK construction sector enters 2026 facing a challenging mix of cost pressures, labour shortages, and regulatory change, but also opportunities to adapt through technology, sustainability, and operational resilience

Read

UK Construction Trade Show Circuit – 2026/2027

March 2026 – November 2027

Kent Construction EXPO sits within a dense UK construction trade show calendar. October 2026 is particularly concentrated, with UK Construction Week Birmingham (29 Sept – 1 Oct) and Kent Construction EXPO (1 Oct) running concurrently, offering a comprehensive regional and national sourcing and networking window. Other key events across the year include Futurebuild and UK Construction Week London (May), Digital Construction Week (June), and London Build (November), providing a full spectrum of construction industry engagement opportunities

12–14 May 2026

Futurebuild 2026

London, United Kingdom

Focus on sustainable materials, circular economy, and low-carbon technologies; 25,000+ professionals expected

website

12–14 May 2026

UK Construction Week London 2026

London, United Kingdom

Key themes include ConTech & AI, Housing, Procurement, Offsite & Industrialisation

website

3–4 Jun 2026

Digital Construction Week 2026

London, United Kingdom

230+ CPD-accredited sessions; 9,000+ professionals attend

website

29 Sep – 1 Oct 2026

UK Construction Week Birmingham 2026

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Features multiple co-located shows including Civils Expo, Timber Expo, and Plant & Machinery Live

website

1 Oct 2026

Kent Construction EXPO 2026

Detling, United Kingdom

Features 180+ exhibitors, conference streams, Meet the Buyer programme, and networking events

website

15–16 Oct 2026

Highways UK 2026

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Focus on RIS3 investment, innovation, and sustainability across UK road networks

website

25–26 Nov 2026

London Build Expo 2026

London, United Kingdom

Brings together the entire built environment industry for two days of networking and innovation

website

25–26 Nov 2026

National Civils Show 2026

London, United Kingdom

Features around 200 exhibitors and 50 CPD-accredited presentations

website

Birmingham October Construction Week

UK Construction Week Birmingham 2026Kent Construction EXPO 2026Timber Expo 2026

Concentrated window (29 Sept – 1 Oct) offering comprehensive coverage of construction, civils, and timber at the NEC Birmingham and Kent Event Centre

London Spring Built Environment Super Event

Futurebuild 2026UK Construction Week London 2026

May 2026 window at ExCeL London; co-located events creating a major platform for sustainable construction and built environment innovation

London Late Autumn Construction & Civils Week

London Build Expo 2026National Civils Show 2026

25–26 November 2026 at ExCeL London; co-located events covering construction, design, and civil engineering

Event dates and details compiled from official organiser websites, trade press, and event listings. Dates are subject to change; verify closer to the event

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

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

LGW

London Gatwick Airport

The nearest major international airport. Car or taxi is the most practical option as public transport is not advised due to multiple transfers

Approx. 41 miles (66 km)

to venue

Approx. 41 minutes via M25

by car

LCY

London City Airport

A convenient option for business travellers, located closer to central London. Accessible by car via the A2/M2

Approx. 35 miles (56 km)

to venue

Approx. 60 minutes

by car

LHR

London Heathrow Airport

The UK's busiest airport. Accessible by car via the M25 and M20. A taxi or pre-booked car service is recommended

Approx. 70 miles (113 km)

to venue

Approx. 75-90 minutes

by car

STN

London Stansted Airport

A hub for several airlines. Accessible by car via the M11, M25, and M20

Approx. 50 miles (80 km)

to venue

Approx. 70 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

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

budget

Maidstone town centre / Detling

USD 70–120 / night

Travelodge Maidstone Central from ~£55- ; Premier Inn Maidstone Town Centre from ~$70- ; Days Inn Maidstone- ; Detling Coach House B&B from £55

mid

Maidstone / Detling / Sittingbourne

USD 120–200 / night

Village Hotel Maidstone (20% off with code REVEV) ; Orida Maidstone (£90 B&B with code KCEXPO) ; Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel (4-star)- ; Holiday Inn Sittingbourne (15 mins from venue)

premium

Maidstone / surrounding countryside

USD 200–350 / night

Delta Hotels by Marriott Tudor Park Country Club- ; Chilston Park Hotel (historic country house)

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Car

Estimated costFuel/tolls only

Best forM20 Junction 7 or M2 Junction 5 to A249

Most convenient option. Free parking on site for up to 30,000 vehicles

Taxi

Estimated cost£10 – £20

Best forFrom Maidstone East station or local hotels

Recommended firms: Streamline (01622 750000), Sapphire Cabs (01622 663000), Angels Express (01622 201020)

Bus

Estimated cost£2 – £5

Best forArriva route 333

Limited service to the showground; check schedules in advance

Train

Estimated costVaries

Best forMaidstone East station

Nearest station. Onward travel by taxi or bus required (approx. 10-15 minutes)

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)	Visa nationals as set out in Appendix Visitor: Visa National list who do not qualify for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or visa-free entry. Required for business activities such as attending a trade fair, conference, meetings, or negotiations	$173.00	3 weeks (15 working days) from biometric appointment
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Nationals of countries listed on the UK government's ETA national list who do not need a visa but are not visa-exempt. Required from February 2026 for business visitors	$13.00	Up to 3 working days (typically much faster)

Nationals of EU/EFTA member states, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many other countries do not need a visa for short business visits of up to 6 months. However, some may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from February 2026. Check the official UK government visa checker

ATA Carnets are accepted in the UK for temporary import of goods for trade fairs, exhibitions, professional equipment, and commercial samples - . Goods must be re-exported within the authorised time limit (usually up to 24 months) . Apply through your national chamber of commerce. A Carnet issued to a company may be used by any person with a letter of authorisation

Official visa page

Weather

October in Maidstone brings cool and often damp weather. Average temperatures range from a high of 14-16°C (58-61°F) to a low of 9°C (48°F)- . The chance of rain is significant, with average precipitation around 66mm (2.6 inches) and a 34-46% chance of rain on any given day- . Be prepared with a waterproof coat and layers

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Kent Event Centre is well-connected by road, situated between the M20 and M2 motorways- . By car, it's approximately 50 minutes from London- . The nearest train station is Maidstone East, which is about a 5-10 minute drive or taxi ride from the venue- . A limited bus service (Arriva route 333) also serves the showground

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Business Etiquette

Kent's business scene values clarity and practicality. Avoid jargon and be curious about the other person first in conversations- . Punctuality is highly regarded, so it's advisable to arrive a few minutes early for meetings- . British business culture often features understatement and politeness; initial meetings may be discreet and formal

Networking Style

The EXPO is a key networking hub. Business cards are exchanged in a relaxed manner- . The event provides structured opportunities for relationship-building, including a Networking Breakfast, Drinks Reception, and Gala Dinner. Engaging proactively is encouraged, and following up after the event is seen as good practice

Local Area

The Kent Event Centre is set in 72 acres of countryside designated as an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'- 46 . This means there are attractive outdoor spaces nearby, such as the White Horse Wood Country Park and the North Downs Way National Trail, ideal for a short break or walk

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: London Gatwick (LGW) or London City (LCY)

Book flights 2-3 months in advance for best fares. Gatwick is the closest major airport and most convenient. Consider London City for business travel. Allow ample time for ground transport to the Kent Event Centre

Visa

Business visitors to the Kent Construction EXPO typically require a Standard Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), depending on nationality. The Standard Visitor Visa permits business activities such as attending trade fairs, conferences, meetings, and negotiations for up to 6 months . The ETA is a digital authorisation for nationals of certain countries who do not need a full visa . A valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and evidence of the business purpose (e.g., registration confirmation or invitation letter) are generally required

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: 3 weeks (15 working days)

Apply well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks before travel). The event organiser may provide a letter of invitation if needed

Official

Hotels

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

Areas to stay

Maidstone town centre · Detling (near the venue) · Sittingbourne (15 minutes' drive) · Hollingbourne / Leeds Castle area

budget

$70 – $120 / night

mid

$120 – $200 / night

Book

premium

$200 – $350 / night

Transport

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

Airport → venue: Gatwick (LGW) is the closest major airport (approx. 41 miles). Car or taxi via M25 and M20 is recommended as public transport requires multiple changes. Heathrow (LHR), Stansted (STN), and London City (LCY) are also accessible via motorway routes

Hotel → venue: Most hotels in Maidstone and Detling are within a 5-15 minute drive of the Kent Event Centre. The venue is located on the A249, easily reached from the M20 (junction 7) and M2 (junction 5)

Ride-hail: Uber and Bolt operate in the area. Local taxi firms also serve the venue: Streamline (01622 750000), Sapphire Cabs (01622 663000), Angels Express (01622 201020)

Public transit: A limited bus service (Arriva route 333) serves the showground . The nearest train station is Maidstone East , from which a taxi is the most practical option

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for up to 30,000 vehicles at the Kent Event Centre

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October

Temperature: 9°C – 16°C (48°F – 61°F)

Seasonality: Average rainfall 66mm; 34-46% chance of rain

Packing: Pack a waterproof jacket, layers, and comfortable shoes for both the venue and potential outdoor breaks

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:00Networking Breakfast (ticketed)
09:00Registration opens; collect badge and explore exhibition
09:25Opening Keynote
10:30Breakout workshops begin
12:40VIP Reception (invite only)
13:00Lunch break and networking in the exhibition
14:00Afternoon conference sessions and workshops
16:00Exhibition closes
16:30Drinks Reception (ticketed)
17:30Gala Dinner (ticketed)

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Thursday 1 October 2026

The event is a single-day exhibition and conference, so the best day to attend is the only day it runs. All exhibitors, sessions, and networking opportunities are concentrated on this day

T-60

Register for the event — Free registration via the official registration link. You will receive your badge a few weeks before the event

T-45

Book travel and accommodation — Book flights to London Gatwick (LGW) or other London airports. Reserve hotel in Maidstone or Detling; partner hotels offer discounts (Village Hotel, Orida)

T-30

Apply for visa if required — Check UK visa requirements. Standard Visitor Visa processing is 3 weeks; ETA may be required from February 2026

T-14

Plan your schedule and meetings — Review the conference programme and exhibitor list. Pre-book Meet the Buyer appointments if applicable

T-7

Prepare business cards and marketing materials — Ensure you have enough business cards and any relevant project briefs or buying criteria

T-1

Check weather and pack essentials — October weather in Kent is cool and often wet; bring a waterproof coat and comfortable shoes

Day 1 (1 Oct)

Attend the EXPO — Event runs 9:00am – 4:00pm. Collect badge at registration (you will have received it pre-event). Explore Maidstone Hall and John Hendry Pavilion

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day