UK Tattoo Conventions 2027: Confirmed Dates and Venues

Tattoo conventions are the best way to see hundreds of artists in one place, get tattooed by someone who would normally mean a long trip or waiting list, and soak up the culture: competitions, live music, traders and art. The UK has some of the biggest shows in Europe. Here are the UK tattoo conventions for 2027 confirmed so far.

Here are the major UK tattoo conventions for 2027 with dates confirmed by the organisers, plus tips for getting the most from your visit. We will update this page as more dates are announced.

Confirmed UK tattoo conventions 2027

Tattoo Freeze: 30 to 31 January 2027

Where: Telford International Centre, Telford, Shropshire

One of the UK's best known shows and traditionally the first big convention of the year. Tattoo Freeze fills the Telford International Centre with artists from the UK and abroad, along with traders, competitions and entertainment. The Great British Tattoo Show, previously held at Alexandra Palace in London, was reported to be joining forces with Tattoo Freeze in Telford from 2024.

Official site: tattoofreeze.com

Brighton Tattoo Convention: 27 to 28 February 2027

Where: The Brighton Centre, Kings Road, Brighton

A seaside favourite on the south coast, the Brighton Tattoo Convention brings hundreds of artists and studios together with vendors, galleries, live music and competitions, just a short walk from the beach and pier.

Official site: brightontattoo.com

Big North Tattoo Show: 24 to 25 April 2027

Where: Utilita Arena, Newcastle upon Tyne

The North East's flagship tattoo event, held in one of the region's largest arenas, with a big line-up of international artists and a full weekend of competitions and entertainment.

Official site: bignorthtattooshow.com

Dates to be confirmed

These popular shows had not published confirmed 2027 dates at the time of writing. Check their official channels before planning a trip.

• Scottish Tattoo Convention, Edinburgh: scottishtattooconvention.net
• The Docks Liverpool Tattoo and Arts Expo, Liverpool: thedockstattooexpo.com

A quick warning when searching: "tattoo" events in the UK also include military music shows such as the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which have nothing to do with tattooing. Make sure you are booking the right kind of tattoo.

How to get tattooed at a convention

Book in advance. Popular artists often fill their convention slots weeks or months ahead. Follow the convention's artist list when it is announced and message artists directly through their social media or booking pages.

Walk-ups are possible, but limited. Many artists bring pre-drawn flash designs for walk-ins, which is a great way to get work from someone you admire. Arrive early on day one for the best choice.

Bring cash and ID. Card machines are common, but not universal, and you will need photo ID to prove you are over 18.

Think about aftercare. A convention hall is busy and warm, and you may be travelling home afterwards. Bring clean clothing that will not rub, and follow the aftercare advice in our tattoo healing timeline.

Check the artist, not just the event. Conventions attract excellent artists, but the same rules apply as at any studio: look at healed work, and watch for the hygiene warning signs in our list of tattoo red flags.

Budget realistically. Well-known artists charge convention rates similar to their studio prices. Our guide to tattoo prices explains what to expect.

Not getting tattooed? Still worth going

Conventions are for everyone. You can watch artists at work, see competition winners, browse art prints and clothing, and get ideas for your next tattoo. If you are thinking about your first, read our first tattoo guide before you go, and our guide to tattoo styles to help you recognise what you love.

Dates confirmed from the official event websites at the time of writing. Events can change, so always check the organiser's site before travelling or buying tickets.