When and where is Brighton Tattoo Convention 2026?

The event is February 28 to March 1, 2026, at The Brighton Centre on King's Road. The venue is on the seafront near the pier, about 15 minutes walk from Brighton Station.

What happens at Brighton Tattoo Convention?

Artists tattoo clients at stations across the convention floor. There are competitions for best tattoo in various categories, vendor stalls selling supplies and clothing, and space to watch artists work. Some artists take walk-up clients while others work from pre-booked appointments.

How do I get tickets for Brighton Tattoo Convention?

Tickets are available at http://brightontattoo.com/. The site sells advance tickets for single days or the full weekend. You can also buy tickets at the door on the day, though popular time slots may sell out in advance.

What should I bring to Brighton Tattoo Convention?

Bring photo ID, cash for deposits and merchandise, and comfortable shoes. The venue has concrete floors and you will walk between stalls. If you plan to get tattooed, eat beforehand and bring water. The convention hall can get warm with the number of people and tattoo machines running.

Is Brighton Tattoo Convention good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The event is open to the public and the atmosphere is welcoming. You can watch artists work, browse flash sheets, and talk to vendors without pressure to get tattooed. The layout is straightforward with clear signage between the main hall and vendor areas.

Brighton Tattoo Convention 2026

Name: Brighton Tattoo Convention 2026
Start: 2026-02-28
End: 2026-03-01
Location: The Brighton Centre

The Brighton Tattoo Convention is a two-day event held at The Brighton Centre on the seafront. The 2026 edition runs from Saturday, February 28 to Sunday, March 1. The convention brings together tattoo artists from across the UK and overseas to work on clients in an open floor setting where visitors can watch the process. The Brighton Centre sits on King's Road, directly opposite the beach and palace pier. The venue has multiple halls with space for approximately 200 tattoo stations, vendor stalls, and seating areas. The main exhibition hall is where most of the live tattooing happens, with artists taking bookings in advance or accepting walk-ups depending on their availability. The space has high ceilings and industrial lighting suited for detailed work. The event includes tattoo competitions judged by visiting artists and industry figures. Categories typically include best black and grey, best color, best small tattoo, and best large piece or sleeve. These run throughout the weekend with final judging and announcements on Sunday afternoon. There is also a stage area for seminars and technical demonstrations, though the specific schedule changes each year. Vendor stalls occupy the perimeter and central aisles, selling tattoo machines, needles, inks, aftercare products, clothing, and jewelry. Many artists bring printed flash sheets for customers to browse and select designs. The atmosphere is busy but organized, with music playing throughout the space and food available from concessions inside the venue. Brighton has a documented connection to tattoo culture dating back to the 19th century when sailors passed through the port. The city's reputation as a liberal, artistic centre grew through the mod and punk eras, and today the North Laine and The Lanes districts contain dozens of established tattoo shops. The convention draws on this local history while bringing in international names who set up alongside Brighton-based artists. Tickets are available through the official website or at the door on the day. Single-day and weekend passes are usually offered, with Saturday typically busier than Sunday. The venue is accessible by train from Brighton Station, which is a 15-minute walk north through the city centre. Parking is available at Churchill Square Shopping Centre or along the seafront roads, though spaces fill quickly on weekends. Hotels in the city centre and Kemptown book up fast during convention weekend, so early reservations are advised. Attendees should bring photo ID, cash for deposits and merchandise, and wear comfortable shoes as the concrete floors are hard on feet after several hours.