The UK convention circuit is firmly back in full swing. As Geek Native has recently reported, 2026 is shaping up to be a busy year with dates already set for Scotland’s oldest roleplaying convention and significant expansion updates from What’s Your Game in Gloucester.
Joining this resurgence, Tabletop Gaming Live has announced its return. After a hiatus of three and a half years, the event organised by the team behind Tabletop Gaming magazine will be rebooting at the Doncaster Racecourse. The show is scheduled for the weekend of February 14th and 15th, 2026.
Industry Talks and Insider Tips
The seminar programme appears to be a priority for the revival, offering a mix of consumer announcements and industry-focused advice.
Flavien Loisier, CEO of Hachette UK, is a headline speaker. Hachette has become a significant force in board game distribution, and Loisier is expected to reveal the company’s 2026 release slate. Perhaps more interestingly for those curious about the business side of the hobby, he will also host a session detailing the logistics of publishing, localisation, and distribution.
For independent designers and those looking to break into the industry, Gareth Edwards, CEO of Frog Hall Games and the Farplace Animal Rescue Charity, will be sharing practical advice. His session will cover the often-opaque topics of securing funding, deal-making, and networking.
RPGs and Gothic Horror
While the event has a strong board game focus, roleplaying games are represented in the schedule.
Matt Chapman, the editor of Tabletop Gaming magazine, will take to the stage to lead a live Dungeons & Dragons session featuring a cast of influencers.
In a more analytical session, Peter Ray Allison of Mythic Echoes will present a talk exploring the influence of Dracula on roleplaying games. With gothic horror remaining a perennial favourite in the TTRPG space, from the mists of Ravenloft to the tragic tales of Vampire: The Masquerade, this promises to be a cultural highlight of the weekend.
Exhibitors and Entertainment
The exhibitor list includes Hachette UK, historical wargaming specialists Warlord Games, and the online retailer Zatu.
The Saturday evening entertainment will feature a quiz hosted by Ian McAllister (formerly of the Giant Brain podcast and quizmaster for Tabletop Scotland) alongside Flavien Loisier.
Logistics and Tickets
The move to Doncaster Racecourse offers practical benefits, most notably onsite parking for those planning to drive. For attendees travelling by rail, the venue is accessible from Doncaster station.
- Tickets: You can purchase tickets for the event directly via Eventbrite.
- Travel: Check train times and book tickets via The Trainline.
- Accommodation: Hotels near the Racecourse can be found on Booking.com.
