2026 UK Anime & Comic Con Schedule: Dates, Cities & Tickets

The UK is one of the most exciting destinations in the world for anime, comic, and pop culture conventions, and 2026 delivers a packed calendar of events for every type of fan. From massive arena-scale expos in London and Birmingham to cozy anime meetups, cultural festivals, and scenic outdoor cosplay gatherings, the UK convention circuit offers a unique mix of scale and atmosphere throughout the year. Whether you’re planning your first convention, chasing headline guests, exploring artist alleys, or simply looking for the best cosplay experiences, this guide covers everything you need—featuring a full month-by-month schedule, key locations, event highlights, and ticket insights to help you plan the perfect con season.

Full 2026 UK Anime & Comic Con Schedule Schedule (By Month)

The UK convention calendar follows a clear seasonal rhythm—from spring warm-ups to summer peak events and a massive autumn finale.

April: The Boutique Awakening

Focusing on high-quality regional events with strong Cosplay and specialized themes.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Apr 18-19	Sci-Fi Scarborough	The Spa Complex	Regional Major. Incredible Victorian seaside venue; amazing for outdoor cosplay photography.	On Sale.
Apr 18-19	For The Love of Horror	BEC Arena, Manchester	Specialist. High production value with horror icons and immersive scare zones.	Selling Fast.
Apr 19	Leicester Comic-Con	Leicester Arena	Regional. A vibrant hub for the Midlands community with a massive focus on indie creators.	Available.
Apr 26	Japan Fest Leicester	Mattioli Woods Stadium	Anime/Cultural. A colorful celebration of Japanese music, food, and anime creativity.	On Sale.
Apr 26	Hull Comic-Con	Allam Sport Centre	Regional Major. The biggest event in East Yorkshire with high-quality cosplay competitions.	Available.

May: The Titans & Cultural Gems

May is arguably the most important month for UK fans, featuring the largest flagship event in the country and several high-energy cultural festivals.

festivals.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
May 2	Animangapop Liverpool	Liverpool Guild	Anime Special. Focuses heavily on J-pop culture, idols, and anime performance.	On Sale.
May 2-3	Comic Con Liverpool	Exhibition Centre	The Giant. Known for blockbuster guest lineups and massive interactive sets.	Selling Fast.
May 10	Otaku Link	The Old Bell Hotel, Derby	Anime Social. An intimate and cozy meetup for hard-core anime and manga enthusiasts.	Available.
May 16	Kaiju Con	SEC, Glasgow	Anime Major. Scotland’s premier hub for Anime, Manga, and Asian culture.	On Sale.
May 22-24	MCM Comic Con London	ExCeL London	The Mega Giant. The UK's ultimate flagship event. A mandatory date for any fan.	Priority Selling Fast.
May 22-26	ConFuzzled 2026	Hilton Metropole, B'ham	Specialist. The UK's largest furry convention; a unique, high-energy 5-day festival.	Registration Required.
May 29-31	Collectormania MK	centre:mk, Milton Keynes	Memorabilia. A massive signing and trader event held in a huge shopping hub.	FREE Entry.
May 31	Japan Fest Mansfield	Mansfield Rugby Club	Anime/Cultural. A vibrant mix of Japanese food, music, and anime creativity.	On Sale.

June: The Summer Solstice of Fandom

June is the peak of the UK's summer circuit, offering world-class Anime expos in the Midlands and legendary film gatherings in the heart of London.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Jun 6-7	HorrorConUK	Magna, Sheffield	Specialist. Set in a massive, atmospheric steelworks. The UK's premier destination for horror fans and dark cosplay.	On Sale.
Jun 7	Comic Con Mania Chester	Chester Racecourse	New Tour. Features high-quality set builds, props, and a professional cosplay masquerade.	On Sale.
Jun 7	Doncaster Comic-Con	Doncaster Dome	Regional Major. An Unleashed flagship event with a massive trading floor and retro gaming zone.	Available.
Jun 12-14	AnimeCon NEC	NEC, Birmingham	Anime Major. One of the UK’s largest professional anime conventions. Famous for live J-pop/K-pop concerts.	Selling Fast.
Jun 13-14	EM-Con Nottingham	Motorpoint Arena	Regional Major. The biggest show in the East Midlands with a huge celebrity guest list and high interaction.	On Sale.
Jun 13-14	London Film & Comic Con	Olympia, London	The Giant. A legendary venue for meeting global movie stars and collecting rare film memorabilia.	On Sale.
Jun 14	Newcastle Unleashed	Vertu Motors Arena	Regional Major. A high-energy northern show with a massive cosplay walk and vibrant trader halls.	Available.
Jun 19-21	SunnyCon Anime Expo	St James Park	Anime. Held in Newcastle's iconic football stadium. A community-focused expo with top-tier cosplay.	On Sale.
Jun 26-28	Starfury: Invasion	Hilton Metropole, B'ham	Specialist. A dedicated 3-day immersive event for Star Wars fans. High production value and star guests.	Booking Required.

July: The Midsummer Peak

July is characterized by high-capacity venues and unique outdoor festivals that draw the largest crowds of the summer.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Jul 4-5	Glasgow Anime & Gaming Con	Hilton DoubleTree	Anime/Gaming. High-energy cosplay and gaming tournaments in the heart of the city.	On Sale.
Jul 11-12	Comic Con Midlands	NEC, Birmingham	The Giant. One of the "Big Three" events for the Midlands; ideal for those who missed London in May.	Selling Fast.
Jul 11	AniSeki	City Racecourse, Chelmsford	Anime Special. Founded by YouTuber Dutchie; expect a very high standard of competitive cosplay.	Available.
Jul 17-19	Fantasy Forest	Sudeley Castle, Glos	Specialist/Fest. An outdoor fantasy festival. Widely considered the most scenic cosplay event in the UK.	Highly Recommended.
Jul 19	Barnsley Comic Con	Barnsley Metrodome	Regional Major. A classic, high-quality family day out with a vast trading hall.	Open.
Jul 24-26	Hyper Japan Festival	Olympia, London	Anime Major. The UK’s biggest Japanese culture event. Essential for J-culture and food fans.	Selling Fast.
Jul 25-26	Comic Con Manchester	Bowlers BEC	The Giant. Famous for its incredible immersive prop sets and a massive community atmosphere.	High Demand.
Jul 26	Newcastle Comic-Con	Northumbria Uni	Regional Major. A staple regional hub with a high-quality cosplay masquerade to end the month.	Available.
Jul 31 - Aug 2	TF Nation 2026	Hilton Metropole, B'ham	Specialist. The ultimate world-class celebration for Transformers fans and collectors.	Specialist Booking.

August: The Mid-Summer Powerhouse

August features some of the largest regional "super-cons" in the country, often moving into high-capacity exhibition centers to accommodate the school holiday crowds.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Aug 1-2	MegaCon Live Manchester	Manchester Central	The Giant. A massive multi-genre event featuring the "Kids Mega Zone" and "TokFEST" creator zones.	On Sale.
Aug 7-9	MCM Comic Con Birmingham	NEC, Birmingham	The Giant. Now moved to August! Expect a massive turnout with major film/TV guests and the full MCM experience.	Priority Booking Soon.
Aug 8-9	Comic Con Wales	ICC Wales, Newport	The Giant. A world-class venue featuring high-profile celebrity meet-and-greets and professional prop sets.	Selling Fast.
Aug 15-16	Wales Comic Con: Takeover	Llangollen Pavilion	Specialist. The legendary "WCC" returns to its spiritual home for an intimate, guest-heavy fan experience.	High Demand.
Aug 22-23	Birmingham Anime Con	TBA (City Centre)	Anime Special. Part of the national AnimeCon tour; great for J-Pop, local artists, and heavy cosplay.	Available.
Aug 30	York Unleashed	York Racecourse	Regional Major. One of the largest racecourse events in the UK, famous for its massive trader hall and outdoor props.	On Sale.

September: The Autumn Circuit Kick-off

September is a massive month for "destination" cons—from the historic halls of Hatfield House to major arena takeovers in Cardiff and Glasgow.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Sep 3-6	Oxonmoot 2026	St Anne’s, Oxford	Specialist. The ultimate annual gathering for Tolkien fans and scholars worldwide.	Specialist Booking.
Sep 5-6	Comic Con Midlands	Telford Int. Centre	The Giant. A massive multi-genre event in a professional exhibition hall.	On Sale.
Sep 5	Fantasy Forest: Libertalia	Hatfield House	Unique Fest. The second annual event from the Fantasy Forest team. A stunning outdoor fantasy festival.	Must-Attend.
Sep 12-13	Film & Comic Con Cardiff	Utilita Arena	The Giant. Wales' premier autumn destination for meeting cult TV and film stars.	On Sale.
Sep 19-20	Comic Con Northern Ireland	Eikon Centre, Lisburn	The Giant. One of Europe's largest cons, attracting tens of thousands of fans.	Selling Fast.
Sep 19-20	Animangapop Manchester	Pendulum Hotel	Anime Special. High-energy J-pop vibes, anime performances, and social meetups.	On Sale.
Sep 20	Sheffield Unleashed	Magna Science Centre	Regional Major. Highly Recommended. Set in a giant former steelworks; an iconic sci-fi atmosphere.	Available.
Sep 26-27	Norcon	Norfolk Showground	Regional Major. Voted one of the UK’s top 10 Comic Cons. Known for its incredible fan-led vibe.	Available.
Sep 26-27	Comic Con North East	Utilita Arena, Newcastle	The Giant. Part of the Monopoly Events family; a massive autumn hub for the North.	Selling Fast.
Sep 26-27	Epic Comic Con Glasgow	SEC, Glasgow	The Giant. A huge indoor showcase covering movies, anime, manga, and gaming.	On Sale.

October: The Grand Finale & Spooky Season

October is the peak of the UK's autumn season, combining massive flagship conventions with high-concept anniversary celebrations and Halloween-themed specials.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Oct 2-4	Lakes Int. Comic Art Festival	Kendal	Cultural. A world-class celebration of comic art, featuring live draws and international creators.	On Sale.
Oct 3-4	Animangapop Bristol	Future Inn, Bristol	Anime Special. One of the West Country's best boutique anime events with a heavy J-Pop focus.	On Sale.
Oct 3-4	Norwich Anime & Gaming Con	Carrow Road Stadium	Anime/Gaming. A high-energy stadium take-over; part of the popular national tour.	Available.
Oct 4	MegaCon Live	Farnborough Int.	The Giant. A massive multi-genre show featuring TokFEST, Steampunk, and huge Cosplay zones.	On Sale.
Oct 10-11	Arcadia (Doctor Who)	Temple of Peace, Cardiff	Specialist. A high-production celebration of 20+ years of Doctor Who filming in Cardiff.	Must-Attend.
Oct 11	Sheffield Anime & Gaming Con	Mercure Sheffield	Anime/Gaming. A core social hub for the South Yorkshire anime community.	Available.
Oct 23-25	MCM Comic Con London	ExCeL London	The Mega Giant. The big one. The UK’s ultimate pop culture event and the grand finale of the season.	Priority Selling Fast.
Oct 24	TR30 - Tomb Raider Day	QUAD, Derby	Specialist. An unofficial global fan celebration for the 30th anniversary of Lara Croft.	Limited Tickets.
Oct 24-25	Koyo Con - Glasgow Anime	SEC, Glasgow	Anime Major. A massive autumn-themed anime extravaganza held at the iconic SEC.	On Sale.
Oct 24-25	Comic Con Scotland	Royal Highland Centre	The Giant. Scotland's biggest indoor event; tens of thousands of fans and A-list guests.	High Demand.
Oct 30-31	Stars of Time Swansea	LC Swansea	Regional Major. A spooky-themed comic con perfect for Halloween weekend cosplay.	Available.
Oct 31 - Nov 1	UK PonyCon 2026	The Venue@DMU, Leics	Specialist. The premier European event for My Little Pony fans of all generations.	On Sale.

November: The Artistic & Intimate Winter Circuit

While the temperatures drop, the UK circuit heats up with specialized anime weekenders and the nation's most respected comic art festival.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Oct 31 - Nov 1	UK PonyCon 2026	The Venue@DMU, Leicester	Specialist. One of Europe's largest MLP events; legendary for its creative cosplay and charity auctions.	On Sale.
Nov 1	Southampton Anime & Gaming Con	Novotel Southampton	Anime/Gaming. A high-energy hub for the South Coast community; great for social gaming and cosplay.	Available.
Nov 1	Plymouth Comic Con Winter	Plymouth Life Centre	Regional Major. The essential winter stop for fans in Devon, featuring gaming zones and local artists.	On Sale.
Nov 7-8	Smugglers Star Wars Weekend	Brooklands Tech, Surrey	Specialist. A dedicated "love letter" to the galaxy far, far away. Expect rare props and fan-favorite guests.	Available.
Nov 13-15	HotaruCon 5	Leonardo Hotel, Milton Keynes	Anime Special. A 3-day immersive anime weekender. Known for being an inclusive, high-energy party for fans.	Selling Fast.
Nov 14-15	Thought Bubble Comic Con	Harrogate Convention Centre	Cultural Giant. The UK's premier comic art event. The place to meet industry-leading artists and writers.	On Sale.
Nov 21-22	Brighton Anime & Gaming Con	Brighton Racecourse	Anime/Gaming. A staple of the seaside calendar; features massive gaming tournaments and cosplay masquerades.	Available.
Nov 28-29	Animangapop Cardiff Winter	Future Inn, Cardiff	Anime Special. A boutique winter edition of the popular tour. High-quality J-culture vibes in the Welsh capital.	On Sale.
Nov 29	London Comic Mart	Royal National Hotel	Collectors. The final major "back-issue" comic hunt of the year—perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts.	Entry at Door.

December: The Festive Finale & Fandom Traditions

The year concludes with specialized reunions and immersive "time-travel" themed celebrations, perfect for high-quality guest interactions and festive cosplay.

Dates	Event Name	Location	Type / Pro-Tip	Ticket Info & Status
Dec 5-6	December Signing Spectacular	St Michael’s Centre, Chiswick	Doctor Who Specialist. An essential annual stop for Whovians; the best place for intimate chats with classic stars and high-quality autographs.	On Sale.
Dec 5-6	The Talking Pictures Festival	Hebden Bridge Picture House	Regional/Vintage Film. A nostalgic "Christmas Roadshow" in a stunning historic cinema; ideal for fans of classic British TV and vintage memorabilia.	Available.
Dec 5-6	Wales Comic Con: Winter	ICC Wales, Newport	The Giant. Usually the last arena-scale con of the year. Pro-Tip: Book the on-site Celtic Manor hotels early, as they fill up months in advance.	Check Official Site.
Dec 12-13	Birmingham Anime & Gaming Con	TBA (City Centre)	Anime Social. A high-energy "Christmas Party" vibe. Pro-Tip: Look out for the festive-themed J-pop performances and cosplay masquerade.	Announced.
Dec 13	London Comic Mart (Christmas)	Royal National Hotel	Collectors. The absolute last chance to hunt for rare comic back-issues and vintage toys as unique Christmas gifts for fellow fans.	Entry at Door.
Dec 18-20	Starfury: VoughtCon 3	Hilton Metropole, B'ham	TV Specialist. A massive 3-day deep-dive into The Boys. Pro-Tip: Stay at the convention hotel to maximize your chance of "lobby encounters" with the cast.	On Sale.
Dec 29 - Jan 1	Steampunk New Year 2027	The Belmont Hotel, Leicester	Unique Fest. An immersive 4-day "Time Travel" themed celebration. Pro-Tip: This is a semi-private hotel takeover; check for last-minute room cancellations.	Registration Required.

 Top 5 Picks: Must-Attend UK Anime & Comic Cons in 2026

If you don’t have time to attend everything, these are the absolute highlights of the year—the biggest, most unique, or most talked-about anime conventions across the UK.

01 | Comic Con Liverpool

The "Northern Giant"—widely considered the UK’s second-largest convention and the ultimate destination for blockbuster guest lineups and Hollywood stars.

📍 Location: Exhibition Centre Liverpool & ACC Liverpool

📅 Dates: May 2 – May 3, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Sunday Standard (Ages 10+): £30.80 (Entry from 11:00 AM)

• Sunday Concession (Ages 5-9): £13.75 (Entry from 11:00 AM)

• Sunday Toddler (Ages 1-4): FREE

• Saturday Tickets: SOLD OUT

• Weekend Passes: SOLD OUT

Note: Prices include administration and facility fees. Order or delivery fees may apply at checkout.

✨ The Core Appeal

 If you want to meet the biggest stars from Stranger Things, The Boys, or Marvel, this is your best bet outside of London. Liverpool Comic Con is legendary for its "A-List" guest lists and its massive scale, occupying the entire waterfront arena complex. It feels like a high-production Hollywood event mixed with a massive community party.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Immersive Set Builds: They don't just have stalls; they build full-scale replicas of the Millennium Falcon cockpit, the Harry Potter common room, and Doctor Who TARDIS.

• The Arena Stage: Massive Q&A panels where global stars share behind-the-scenes secrets in front of thousands of fans.

• Retro Gaming Zone: A huge dedicated area filled with classic arcade machines and consoles, all set to "Free Play."

⚠️ Survival Guide

Urgency is key: With Saturday and Weekend tickets already gone, Sunday is the only remaining day to experience the show. The venue is on the Liverpool waterfront, which can be very windy and chilly—bring a coat for the outdoor queues! Autograph and Photo-Op queues here move fast but can be very long; ensure you have your digital tickets ready on your phone.

02 | MCM Comic Con · London (May Edition)

The "Mega Giant"—the UK’s ultimate flagship event and a mandatory pilgrimage for every pop-culture fan.

📍 Location: ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, London

📅 Dates: May 22 – May 24, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info: 

• Priority Tickets (Early Access):

  • Weekend Priority (3-Day): £97.00

  • Friday Priority: £37.00

  • Saturday Priority: £47.00

  • Sunday Priority: £39.00

  • VIP Pass: SOLD OUT

• General Entry Tickets:

  • Friday General: £27.00

  • Saturday General: £37.00

  • Sunday General: £29.00

• Squad Bundles (Group Savings):

  • Friday Squad Bundle: £150.00

  • Sunday Squad Bundle: £158.00

• Kids & Family:

  • Daily Kids Ticket: £7.00

  • Kids 4 & Under: FREE (Must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult)

Note: All prices are inclusive of VAT and service fees. Carer Pass applications must be approved BEFORE ticket purchase.

✨ The Core Appeal

This is the "Super Bowl" of the UK scene. Spanning the entire North and South halls of the ExCeL, it is the only place in Britain where you’ll see global world premieres, massive gaming booths from the likes of Nintendo and Bandai Namco, and a sea of thousands of cosplayers.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Cosplay Central: Home to the UK’s most prestigious masquerades and international qualifiers.

• The Tree of Life: The iconic outdoor meetup spot for the UK’s largest unofficial cosplay photoshoot.

• Pop Asia: A massive dedicated zone for K-pop dance battles, origami, and Japanese street food.

⚠️ Survival Guide

The DLR (train) to Custom House will be packed; travel early or use the Elizabeth Line to Custom House for a faster, higher-capacity route. The ExCeL is a long concrete hall—wear comfortable shoes or your feet will give up by 2:00 PM.

03 | AnimeCon UK · Birmingham

The North Star for Otaku culture—the UK's largest professional convention dedicated 100% to Anime and J-Pop.

📍 Location: NEC Birmingham, West Midlands

📅 Dates: June 12 – June 14, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• VIP Ticket (Extremely Limited): £95.00

  • Includes: 3-day priority entry, "Jump the Line" for autographs, front-row panel seating, and an exclusive merch bundle (Lanyard, Badge, Messenger Bag).

• 3-Day Premium Ticket: £50.00

  • Includes: All-day entry for Fri/Sat/Sun, a special premium badge, and access to Friday feature events.

• Single Day Tickets:

  • Friday: £17.50 (Afternoon entry 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

  • Saturday (The Main Event):  £30.00

  • Sunday:  £25.00

• After Party (18+ Only): £15.00

  • Kicks off Saturday at 6:30 PM. Note: This always sells out in advance.

✨ The Core Appeal

This is a dedicated music and fan festival. It brings the energy of a Japanese "Live House" to the UK, focusing on high-production J-Pop/K-Pop concerts and industry panels with the voice actors behind the year's biggest hits. Unlike general comic cons, every inch of the NEC is packed with pure anime and manga culture.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Friday Feature Events: Exclusive programming for Premium and VIP holders to kick off the weekend early.

• The Main Stage: Professional lighting and sound for touring Japanese artists, idol groups, and the national cosplay finals.

• Artist Alley: One of the most diverse creator spaces in the UK, focusing on high-quality fan art and independent manga.

⚠️ Survival Guide

Saturday is "The Main Event"—expect the highest foot traffic and the best cosplay. If you want to shop for rare merch, the VIP "First on the Floor" access is a lifesaver. If you plan on attending the After Party, book your ticket the moment you buy your badge, as it’s the most famous night in the Birmingham anime social calendar.

04 | London Film & Comic Con (LFCC)

The "Vintage Legend"—the UK’s most prestigious event for meeting Hollywood royalty and securing rare autographs.

📍 Location: Olympia London, Kensington, London

📅 Dates: June 13 – June 14, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Standard Adult (Saturday): From £21.00

• Standard Adult (Sunday): From £21.00

• Gold Pass: ~£210.00+ (Includes fast-track queues and exclusive access)

• Photo Ops/Autographs: Priced individually by guest (£30 to £300+ for mega-stars).

Note: Tickets are sold via Eventbrite/Showmasters; early booking is highly recommended for popular guests.

✨ The Core Appeal

LFCC isn't about flashy gaming booths; it is about The Guests. While MCM is for the "vibe," LFCC is for the serious collector. They consistently land "impossible" guests from Star Wars, Back to the Future, and the MCU. If you want a professional photo with a cinematic legend, this is where you go.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• The Autograph Zone: A massive area where you can have meaningful, short interactions with actors from your favorite childhood movies.

• YALC (Young Adult Literature Convention): Often held alongside LFCC, it’s a dream for book lovers to meet famous YA authors.

• Rare Collectibles Market: Vendors here often bring rare, graded comics and vintage toys not found at mainstream shows.

⚠️ Survival Guide

This event is highly transactional. Budget heavily if you want photos or autographs. The halls can get extremely crowded—travel light and bring a hard-backed folder or tube to protect your signed posters and photos.

05 | Hyper Japan Festival · London

The UK’s premier cultural bridge—an immersive "portal to Japan" where J-Pop megastars, world-class voice actors, and Michelin-level street food collide.

📍 Location: Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, London

📅 Dates: July 24 – July 26, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Multi-Day Passes:

  • 3-Day Pass: £78.75

  • 2-Day Pass (Sat & Sun): £58.80 (Early Bird)

• Single Day Tickets:

  • Friday (12pm–8pm): £28.35

  • Saturday (10am–8pm): £41.55

  • Sunday (10am–5pm): £31.50

• Tomodachi Bundle (Group of 5): * Fri: £19.95 | Sat: £34.65 | Sun: £22.05 (Per person; must buy in multiples of 5)

• Children (10 & Under): FREE (1 free child per paying adult; additional children require a paid ticket)

• Carer Entry: FREE (Must be accompanied by a paid Disabled Visitor ticket)

✨ The Core Appeal

If MCM is where you celebrate your favorite shows, Hyper Japan is where you celebrate the country that created them. It is the only event in the UK where you can meet a top-tier Japanese voice actor (Seiyuu) in the morning, attend a J-Pop arena-style concert in the afternoon, and end the day at a Sake tasting street. In 2026, the guest lineup is the strongest in years, featuring industry giants like Aniplex and Studio Ghibli (Maison Ghibli).

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Stellar Guest Lineup: Chiaki Kobayashi (Sunday Only): The voice behind Stark (Frieren), Mash (Mashle), and Gabimaru (Hell’s Paradise).

  • Eir Aoi (Saturday Only): The legendary singer behind Sword Art Online and Fate/Zero theme songs.

  • QUEEN BEE (Friday Only): The rock icons behind the Oshi no Ko (推之子) and Chainsaw Man endings.

• Maison Ghibli: A massive, back-by-popular-demand official Studio Ghibli shop and exhibition.

• Sake Street: The UK’s largest selection of Japanese craft sake and spirits for a true "Izakaya" vibe.

⚠️ Survival Guide

Olympia is a stunning Victorian venue but gets very hot under its glass roof in July—dress light and carry water. Note that Chiaki Kobayashi and Eir Aoi are day-specific guests, so choose your ticket accordingly. If you’re a serious collector, the official Ghibli and Aniplex booths usually have long queues—hit them as soon as the doors open at 10:00 AM.

06 | MegaCon Live · Manchester

The "Family Favorite"—a vibrant, high-energy weekend that perfectly blends modern pop culture with a massive, dedicated kids' adventure zone.

📍 Location: Manchester Central Convention Complex, Manchester

📅 Dates: August 1 – August 2, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Weekend Pass (Ages 10+): £44.00 (Includes 2-hour early entry both days)

• Early Entry Tickets (Access from 9am Sat / 10am Sun):

  • Saturday: £28.00

  • Sunday: £24.00

• Standard Entry Tickets (Access from 11am both days):

  • Saturday: £24.00

  • Sunday: £18.00

• Kids 10 & Under: FREE (Up to 2 children free per paying adult; must request free ticket at checkout)

Note: Prices include all fees. Weekend and Early Entry tickets are the only way to access the floor before the 11:00 AM rush.

✨ The Core Appeal

MegaCon Live is the most "all-ages" friendly show on the circuit. While it has the standard celebrity guests and anime stalls, its heartbeat is the Social in the City (SitC) and TokFEST zones, where you can meet your favorite digital creators and YouTubers. It’s less about hard-core collecting and more about the interactive, social side of being a fan.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Kids Mega Zone: A massive area filled with inflatables, bumper cars, and activities, making it the best con for parents with younger children.

• Creator Zones: Dedicated meet-and-greet areas for TikTok and YouTube stars, often featuring live stage challenges.

• The Cosplay Masquerade: A very welcoming, community-focused stage that is perfect for first-time cosplayers and families.

⚠️ Survival Guide

 Manchester Central is a stunning converted railway station, but the "Early Entry" is a massive advantage here—the 11:00 AM "Standard" queue can get quite long and exposed to the elements. If you are bringing kids, the "Kids Go FREE" deal is unbeatable value, but remember you must add the free child tickets to your basket when buying your own!

07 | Comic Con Scotland · Edinburgh

The "Grand Finale" of the North—famous for its high production value and intense fan energy in the magical city of Edinburgh.

📍 Location: Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland

📅 Dates: October 24 – October 25, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Full Weekend Passes:

  • Diamond Pass: £238.00

  • Standard (Ages 10+): £53.90

  • Concession (Ages 5-9): £24.20

• Single Day Tickets (Saturday OR Sunday):

  • Diamond Pass: £158.00 (09:00 Entry)

  • Standard (Ages 10+): £29.70 (09:00 Entry)

  • Concession (Ages 5-9): £13.20

• Toddlers (Ages 1-4): FREE (Applies to all ticket types)

Note: All prices are inclusive of administration and facility fees. Order or delivery fees may apply at checkout.

✨ The Core Appeal

Held in a city that already feels like a movie set, Scotland's biggest con is known for its massive immersive set builds. It consistently lands legendary "legacy" guests (think Back to the Future or Star Wars cast reunions) and features some of the best fan-led prop displays in the UK. The atmosphere here is notoriously passionate, often described as a "giant family reunion" for Scottish geeks.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• Prop Photo-Ops: Famous for its giant, screen-accurate vehicle replicas (like the Batman Tumbler or Jurassic Park Jeeps).

• Cosplay Masquerade: Since it's held right before Halloween, the costume quality here is exceptionally high and often leans into the "spooky" or "horror" side of pop culture.

• Potion Making: An interactive, theatrical performance where fans can brew their own magical "potions" to take home.

⚠️ Survival Guide

The venue is right next to Edinburgh Airport—perfect for fans flying in, but use the Edinburgh Tram for the easiest connection from the city center. Late October in Scotland is properly cold; if your cosplay is made of thin spandex, plan to wear thermal layers underneath! Also, Diamond Passes for this event are highly coveted and tend to sell out first as they offer the most interaction time with A-list stars.

08 | Thought Bubble Comic Festival

The "Artistic Soul"—widely considered the best comic-focused event in Europe. 2026 marks its Landmark 20th Anniversary, making it a bucket-list year for fans of illustration and storytelling.

📍 Location: Harrogate Convention Centre, North Yorkshire

📅 Dates: November 14 – November 15, 2026

🎫 Ticket & Price Info:

• Weekend Passes:

  • Standard: £42.00

  • Cosplay Discount: £40.00

  • Student: £32.00

• Single Day Tickets (Sat or Sun):

  • Standard: £30.00

  • Cosplay Discount: £28.00

  • Student: £25.00

• Always FREE:

  • Under 12s (Must be accompanied by an adult)

  • Over 65s

  • Carers & Support Workers

Note: Prices include a £1.00 booking fee. This event is creator-focused, so your ticket money directly supports the comic arts community.

✨ The Core Appeal

This is the "anti-Comic Con." There are no rows of movie stars; instead, you get rows of the world’s greatest comic book artists and writers. It’s incredibly intimate, friendly, and focuses purely on the art of comics. For the 20th Anniversary, expect a massive "Comic Week" across Yorkshire leading up to the main weekend.

🔥 Must-See Activities

• The Artist Alley: Over 600 creators ranging from DC/Marvel legends to the best indie zine makers in the world.

• The Mid-Con Party: The social event of the year where creators and fans mingle, dance, and celebrate together as equals.

• The Panels: Deep-dive discussions on how to build worlds, write scripts, and break into the industry.

⚠️ Survival Guide

 Harrogate is a beautiful spa town, but because it is small, hotels fill up extremely fast for the anniversary. Book your stay early! The vibe is "casual and cozy"—it’s more about browsing books and getting sketches than fighting through crowds. Also, if you plan to wear a costume, take advantage of the Cosplay Discount ticket to save a bit of cash!

💡 2026 UK Con Survival Kit: Pro-Tips

1. "Priority" is Your Best Friend

In 2026, tickets are selling out faster than ever. If you want to snag exclusive merch or avoid a 3-hour entry queue, Priority or Early Entry tickets are worth every penny. For events like MCM and Liverpool, being in that first wave can save your entire day.

2. Strategic Staying: Follow the Rail, Not the Venue

Accommodation right next to the ExCeL (London) or NEC (Birmingham) can be eye-wateringly expensive. Pro-tip: Book a hotel along the Elizabeth Line for London or near Birmingham New Street for the NEC. You'll save enough on your room to pay for your haul in Artist Alley.

3. The "Con-Flu" Prevention & Tech Prep

Convention halls are massive, crowded, and often have spotty Wi-Fi. Download your tickets as offline PDFs or screenshots before you arrive. Also, carry a power bank—searching for a signal drains your battery, and you don’t want your phone dying right before a photo op.

4. Cosplay Comfort & "The Onion" Rule

UK weather is unpredictable. Even in July, a glass-roofed venue like Olympia can get humid while the outside queue is windy. Wear "layers"—thermal skins under thin costumes for October (Edinburgh) and easy-to-shed layers for the summer heat. And always, always wear comfortable shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which event is best for a first-timer in 2026? 

 MCM London (May) is the ultimate entry point. Its scale and diversity ensure that no matter what you’re into—anime, gaming, or movies—you’ll find your "tribe." The facilities are top-tier, making it the most accessible "big" experience.

2. I only care about official Japanese merch. Where should I go? 

Head to AnimeCon UK (Birmingham) or Hyper Japan (London). These shows have the highest concentration of official Japanese publishers (like Aniplex and Bandai Namco) and authentic cultural imports that you won't find at more general comic cons.

3. Are celebrity meet-and-greets included in the ticket price?

No. Your entry ticket gets you into the hall and most panels, but Autographs and Photo Ops are sold separately. For A-list stars (like those at Liverpool or LFCC), these can sell out months in advance. Check the official "Guest" page of the con's website as soon as you buy your ticket.

4. Is the "Kids Go Free" deal real for 2026? 

Mostly, yes! Major cons like MegaCon Live and MCM offer free entry for children under 10 (or 5, depending on the event). Crucial Tip: Even if they are free, you usually still need to "order" a £0.00 child ticket online so the venue can track capacity. Don't just show up without one!

5. What’s the food situation like inside the venues? 

 Expensive and busy. Most venues have standard "event food" (burgers, hot dogs, overpriced sandwiches). Pro-tip: Bring high-energy snacks and a refillable water bottle. Most UK venues like the NEC and ExCeL now have free water refill stations to keep you hydrated for free.

6. Can I change into my cosplay at the venue? 

Most major venues like the ExCeL (MCM) or NEC (AnimeCon) provide dedicated changing rooms and cloakrooms. However, these get incredibly crowded during peak hours (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM).

• Pro-Tip: If your cosplay is manageable, try to arrive partly in costume. If you have a massive prop or armor, arrive as early as possible to secure a spot in the changing area.

7. Do I need a photography pass to take photos of cosplayers? 

Not for personal use or social media. However, commercial photography usually requires a press pass.

• Etiquette Rule: Always ask before taking a photo. A simple "Can I take your photo?" is mandatory. If a cosplayer is eating, resting, or in a "cosplay emergency" (broken prop), please give them space.

8. Are there strict rules for cosplay weapons and props? 

Yes, and UK security is very strict.

• The "No Metal" Rule: Any real or metal blades (sharp or blunt) are strictly prohibited. This includes metal bats and bokken.

• Prop Materials: Stick to EVA foam, thermoplastic (Worbla), wood, or 3D-printed plastic.

• Realistic Firearms: Realistic imitation firearms must have a bright orange safety tip. Airsoft or BB guns are generally not allowed unless fully decommissioned. Every prop will be inspected at the Prop Check desk upon entry.

Conclusion: Mapping Out Your Ultimate 2026 Con Journey

As we’ve seen, the 2026 UK convention circuit offers something for every corner of fandom. Whether you're chasing the Hollywood glitz of Comic Con Liverpool and LFCC, diving deep into authentic otaku culture at AnimeCon UK and Hyper Japan, or seeking the creative heartbeat of the industry at Thought Bubble, the sheer variety across the country is staggering.

From the massive, multi-genre spectacle of MCM London to the cozy, family-friendly atmosphere of MegaCon Live Manchester and the immersive, high-production sets in Scotland, these events are more than just dates on a calendar—they are the milestones of our year.

To make the most of your 2026 season, remember these three golden rules:

• Book Early: With flagship events already seeing sell-outs months in advance, procrastination is your biggest enemy.

• Plan Your Logistics: Use the specific ticket tiers and travel tips we've discussed to save money and energy.

• Embrace the Community: Beyond the merch and the guests, the best part of any con is the people you meet along the way.

The halls of the ExCeL, NEC, and Olympia are waiting for you. Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer or a first-time attendee, 2026 is shaping up to be a historic year for the UK fan community.