Hospitality Live 2026

The first Hospitality Live Leeds 2026 has wrapped, firmly positioning the city as a leading destination for forward-thinking UK hospitality and events.

Hosted at the Royal Armouries in New Dock Hall, the inaugural event brought together event planners, venues, suppliers and agencies from across the UK hospitality sector. The result was a high-energy, experience-led event that delivered meaningful connections and a fresh approach to industry trade shows.

Unlike traditional exhibitions, Hospitality Live Leeds introduced an informal MICE event format (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions), designed to prioritise connection, conversation and experience. 
Key features included:

• Curated networking that encouraged real conversations
• Relaxed, informal meeting spaces instead of standard exhibition stands
• Short, practical live sessions with practical industry insights throughout the day
• An easy shift into evening drinks, music and informal networking

This format created a natural flow to the day, not only increasing engagement but also positioning Leeds as an innovative hub for MICE industry events. 

With 40-plus exhibitors and a steady stream of engaged delegates, the event created real momentum.

Exhibitors spoke about the quality of conversations, while attendees appreciated the more relaxed format and the chance to connect without the usual pressures of a traditional setup. 

Hospitality Live also partnered with Zarach, the children’s bed charity.

Through the event, 25 beds and mattresses will be donated to families in need, supporting better sleep and improved well-being for children across the region. 

One of the most notable aspects of Hospitality Live 2026 was how quickly it came together.

Led by a group of experienced industry partners – including Wayne Topley, Paula Kelsey, Ben Campbell and the team at the Royal Armouries – the event was planned and delivered at pace, with collaboration at its core. That shared effort was clear on the day, with a well-executed event that felt both considered and easy to navigate.

Supported by sponsors including Punch Hospitality, Famtastic, and the Leeds Hotels and Venues Association, the event demonstrated what can be achieved when the industry works together. 

Following a strong first event, planning is already underway for next year.

There is a clear appetite to build on what’s been created — with more exhibitors, more attendees and a bigger programme expected in 2027.

Early booking details will be announced soon. 

If Hospitality Live showed anything, it’s how well the Royal Armouries works as a backdrop for bringing people together.

With flexible event spaces, a central Leeds location and the ability to host both daytime sessions and evening networking, it’s a venue well suited to a wide range of events - from small, focused meeting sessions to large-scale awards and exhibitions. 

Considering your next event?