My UK Games Expo Experience: Why Every Board Game Fan Needs to Go

If you're someone who loves board games - like I do - then there's one event you absolutely must experience: the UK Games Expo (UKGE). I went for the first time last year, and honestly? It was phenomenal.

As soon as I walked into the NEC in Birmingham, I felt like I’d found my people. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, creativity, and that unmistakable hum of dice rolling and rulebooks flipping. Everywhere I turned, there were tables full of people laughing, thinking, and discovering. It reminded me exactly why I wanted to start Love Board Games in the first place.

A Bit of History (because of course I looked it up…)

The UK Games Expo has come a long way since it began back in 2007. What started as a modest community event is now the largest tabletop gaming convention in the UK, attracting tens of thousands of visitors every year. And it’s not just for hardcore gamers, UKGE welcomes everyone, from families and first-timers to collectors and designers.

What Happens at UKGE?

This year’s event runs from Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June 2025, and it’s packed with:

• Game demos for every type of board game imaginable

• Hundreds of exhibitors showing off new releases, classics, and hidden gems

• Workshops and talks from designers and industry legends

• Tournaments for competitive types (think Catan, Carcassonne and more)

• Live entertainment and cosplay

• Even a Living History village, you’ll see knights in armour casually chatting about meeples!

  
  

Last year, I spent the day completely wide-eyed, hopping from table to table and chatting with indie game creators. It's honestly one of the most fun and inspiring days I’ve ever had.

Tips from My First UKGE Visit

Since I made a few rookie mistakes last year (and learned from them!), here are my best tips for getting the most out of the show:

✅ Bring an IKEA blue bag or a folding trolley – You will come home with games, leaflets, and impulse buys. Your shoulders will thank you.

✅ Hire a storage box at the NEC cloakroom – It's a lifesaver. Drop your haul off, stay light, and pick it up at the end of the day.

✅ Plan ahead – Check the exhibitor list before you go and highlight the must-see stands. It’s a massive venue, and you’ll thank yourself for having a route.

✅ Look out for offers – Many exhibitors run UKGE-only deals and bundles. Some even throw in promos or freebies just for demoing a game.

✅ Take your time – Seriously. Don’t rush. Play a game you’ve never heard of. Sit down with strangers. Talk to the creators. That’s where the magic is.

Why This Matters to Me (And Maybe You Too)

As someone who runs a board game rental service, UKGE reminded me of what modern gamers truly value: variety, accessibility, and experiences. Not everyone has the space (or budget) to own shelves full of games, and that’s where Love Board Games comes in.

With our board game subscription, you can borrow board games, try out different styles, and always have something new for your next game night.

And honestly? Going to UKGE only strengthened my belief that borrowing is the smart way to play.

Should You Go?

If you love games even a little bit, or just want to see what the hype is about - yes, go. It’s welcoming, exciting, and an unforgettable experience whether you’re solo, with friends, or bringing the family.

And when you get back, buzzing with ideas and a long wish list? Come to Love Board Games. We’ve probably got what you’re itching to try. And if we don’t - let me know, I’m always adding to the library.

See you at the table (or maybe at the Expo)!