Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • September 17th, 2026
|York is gearing up for an exciting weekend as it prepares to host the largest board games convention in its history, the York Board Games Convention, set to take place in October 2026. This event, now in its third year, will be held at the historic St Peter’s School and promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
What to Expect at the Convention
The York Board Games Convention has quickly become a highlight of the regional cultural calendar since its launch in 2024. This year, organisers are thrilled to announce extended opening hours until 11:00 pm, providing even more opportunities for players to enjoy their favourite games. With more space and an impressive line-up of activities, the convention is designed to cater to both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
One of the most exciting aspects of the convention is its incredible guest line-up. This year, special guests Ivan Brett and Wilfred Webster, known from the popular television show The Traitors, will be joining attendees. They will share exclusive insights into their experiences on the show, which has captured the imagination of viewers across the UK. Fans will have the chance to engage in discussions and even play alongside these stars, adding a unique twist to the gaming experience.
A Vast Game Library
At the heart of the convention is its expansive board games library, which now boasts around 600 titles. This collection includes everything from beloved family games to the latest international releases. Visitors can borrow games from the library to play in the large open gaming hall, making it easy to try out new and exciting games. The convention also features a packed schedule of activities, appealing to a wide range of interests. Some of the highlights include:
The Forge: A dedicated area for tabletop role-playing games (RPGs), where players can immerse themselves in storytelling and adventure.
Blood on the Clocktower: Facilitated sessions of this popular social deduction game, perfect for those who enjoy strategy and deception.
Playtesting Zone: An interactive space where local game designers can showcase their prototypes, allowing attendees to provide feedback on new ideas.
Bring & Buy Sale: A community market where participants can buy and sell their pre-loved gaming items, adding a treasure hunt element to the day.
Independent Traders: Stalls featuring unique games and products from independent publishers and creators.
Giant Games: Oversized versions of classic games that are sure to entertain.
Food & Drink: A variety of local food vendors will be on-site, ensuring that everyone stays refreshed throughout the day.
Accessibility and Community Focus
Accessibility and inclusion are central to the ethos of the York Board Games Convention. St Peter’s School is fully equipped with level access, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the venue comfortably. Additionally, entry is free for children under 16, making it a fantastic and affordable day out for families in York and beyond. There will also be on-site parking available for guests.
Ryan, one of the event directors, expressed excitement about the community's response to previous conventions:
"We have been overwhelmed by the incredible response from the York community over the past two years. For 2026, we wanted to deliver something truly memorable. By extending our hours, bringing in world-class TV guests, and stocking our largest game library to date, we’re delivering the biggest gaming weekend York has ever seen."
Event Details
For those eager to attend, here are the essential details to keep in mind:
Event: York Board Games Convention 2026 (3rd Annual Edition)
Venue: St Peter's School, Clifton, York, YO30 6AB
Opening Hours: 9 am - 11:00 pm
Admission: Free for under-16s (must be accompanied by an adult).
