January 12, 2026
ExCeL London hosts a wide range of exhibitions, conferences, and live events throughout January 2026, attracting business delegates, international visitors, and leisure travellers. Located in London’s Docklands, the venue is well connected by DLR, Underground, and London City Airport.
Below is an overview of key events taking place at ExCeL London in January 2026, along with practical information for planning your visit.
ExCeL London Events – January 2026
1. Elvis Evolution (Now Open)
An immersive exhibition exploring the life and legacy of Elvis Presley, combining archival material, multimedia displays, and interactive experiences. Suitable for music fans and cultural visitors.
2. The Last Days of Pompeii: The Immersive Exhibition (14 November 2025 - 15 March 2026)
A large-scale immersive exhibition recreating life in Pompeii before the volcanic eruption, using projection, sound, and storytelling. Popular with families and international visitors.
3. Bett UK 2026 (21 - 23 January 2026)
One of the world’s leading education technology exhibitions, bringing together educators, policymakers, and technology providers from across the globe.
4. EAG Expo 2026 (13 - 15 January 2026)
A trade exhibition focused on the entertainment, amusement, and gaming industries, primarily attended by professionals and exhibitors.
5. MegaCon Live London (24 - 25 January 2026)
A fan-focused event celebrating comics, gaming, film, and pop culture, featuring guest appearances, cosplay, and interactive experiences.
6. The Festival of Genomics & Biodata 2026 (28 - 29 January 2026)
An international conference bringing together researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders in genomics and data science.
7. Evolve Live! 2026 (30 January 2026)
A one-day event focused on innovation, leadership, and organisational development, aimed at professionals across multiple sectors.
Where to Stay When Visiting ExCeL London
ExCeL London is well connected to several parts of central London by DLR, Underground, river services, and London City Airport. Depending on the length of stay and travel plans, some visitors prefer accommodation close to the City of London, while others choose Westminster for sightseeing and a quieter setting.
Blue Orchid Hospitality operates a small collection of centrally located hotels and serviced residences in Tower Hill and Westminster, offering different accommodation styles for short visits, longer stays, business travel, and family trips.
Staying Near the City of London (Tower Hill)
Tower Hill provides direct transport links to ExCeL London via the DLR and Thames river services, while also being within walking distance of landmarks such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.
Blue Orchid’s properties in this area include hotel-style suites near Tower Bridge, suitable for short stays, business travel, or visitors who prefer hotel services alongside additional living space. You can also find serviced apartments with kitchens and living areas, often chosen for longer stays, family visits, or travellers who prefer more independent accommodation
This location can work well for guests attending ExCeL events who also want easy access to the City of London or Canary Wharf.
Staying in Westminster
Westminster is often chosen by visitors who want to combine an ExCeL visit with sightseeing in central London. The area is close to Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Big Ben and government and cultural institutions.
Blue Orchid’s Westminster property offers four-star hotel accommodation near Victoria and Westminster, with access to transport links and a calmer residential setting compared to busier tourist areas.
This option may suit guests attending shorter ExCeL events who plan to spend additional time exploring London’s landmarks.
If You’re Extending Your Stay in London
Many visitors travelling to London for ExCeL events choose to add extra nights before or after their event whether to recover from travel, make the most of being in London, or turn a work trip into a short break.
Blue Orchid Hospitality offers a small number of curated stay packages across its central London properties, designed to suit different reasons for extending a visit.
Some of these packages include:
Packages vary by property and date and are intended to complement an extended visit rather than dictate an itinerary.
Availability and suitability vary by property and travel dates.
Planning Your Visit to ExCeL London
ExCeL London hosts a wide range of exhibitions, conferences, and public events throughout the year. Travel times, accommodation choices, and planning needs can vary depending on where you are staying and the nature of your visit.
How do I get to ExCeL London from central London?
ExCeL London is accessible via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), Underground connections, Thames river services, and London City Airport. Travel times vary depending on departure point and time of day.
Is it better to stay near ExCeL London or in central London?
Some visitors choose accommodation close to ExCeL for convenience, while others prefer central London to combine their visit with sightseeing, dining, and cultural attractions. Both options offer good transport connections.
How long does it take to travel from Tower Hill to ExCeL London?
Travel from Tower Hill to ExCeL London typically takes around 20 - 30 minutes using the DLR or river services, depending on the route chosen.
Which airports are closest to ExCeL London?
London City Airport is the closest airport to ExCeL London. Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted are also accessible via public transport.
Can I combine an ExCeL visit with sightseeing?
Yes. Many visitors plan additional time before or after their event to explore central London attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, and theatres.