The UK’s largest tattoo convention hits Excel London this September with fire shows, BMX stunts, ancient techniques, and over 500 artists under one roof.
Mark your calendars: the Big London Tattoo Show is back for its fifth anniversary, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest yet. Running from 4-6 September 2026 at Excel London, this three-day event is bringing over 500 national and international tattoo artists to the capital for what’s officially the UK’s largest tattoo convention. Think 14,000 square metres of ink, artistry, and everything in between.
Whether you’re inked head-to-toe or just tattoo-curious, there’s something here for everyone. Guests can book sessions with their favourite artists—each one set up in their own mini pop-up studio—or simply wander the floor exploring different styles, from ancient hand-tapped traditions to futuristic chrome techniques. This year’s lineup highlights both heritage and innovation: expect to see traditional Japanese “tebori” carving and Filipino “batok” hand-tapping alongside blackout tattoos made famous by Lionel Messi and Machine Gun Kelly.
Fire, Stunts, and a Double-Decker Bar
Beyond the tattoos, the show is stacked with entertainment. The Fuel Girls will be taking over the main stage with their fire-meets-dance performance, while BMX stunt battles, magic acts, and speed painting keep the energy high. The main stage sits next to a lineup of food trucks and—best bit—a double-decker bus converted into a mobile bar. There’s also free fairground rides all weekend, free pinball, a vintage arcade, and a hang-tough competition if you fancy testing your grip strength.
More than 50 independent traders will be selling custom merch, and you can even screen-print your own posters and tees as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Graffiti exhibitions and tattoo competitions round out the creative showcase, celebrating the artistry that goes well beyond skin-deep.
Artist Friday and the Headliners
Friday kicks off with Artist Friday, an industry-focused day featuring artist-to-artist seminars on everything from colour management and black-and-grey techniques to business management and digital marketing. Come evening, students can grab discounted tickets for £22.25 (student ID required). Saturday and Sunday open to the public, with day tickets priced at £38.75 each, or grab a three-day pass for £88.25. Kids under 14 get in free.
This year’s artist roster is seriously impressive. Highlights include Ate Wamz, who works in traditional Filipino “batok” technique; Martin Kubala (aka Kubalizmus), known for his hyper-detailed nature work including a recent piece that took 700 hours; Anthony Lennox, who’ll be collaborating live with another artist on a one-off surrealism tattoo; David Corden, a 20-year veteran creating photorealistic portraits; Carter Hewlett with his metallic chrome futurism; Jonny Ransom bringing blackout tattoos; and Thomas Carli Jarlier, a competition-winning 3D black-and-white specialist leading Friday’s educational sessions.
Festival Director Martin McIver sums it up: “Every tattoo has a story, and that’s what we are here to celebrate. Reaching a fifth anniversary is no small feat for a live event of this magnitude… Whether you’re covered head to toe or simply curious, we welcome everyone to experience the biggest tattoo art event in the UK.”
Tickets are on sale now via the Big London Tattoo Show website. Friday runs 5pm–11:30pm, Saturday 10:30am–9pm, and Sunday 10:30am–7pm at Excel Centre, Royal Victoria Dock. If you’ve ever been curious about the culture, the craft, or just want a weekend unlike any other, this is your chance.
