May 15, 2026
Dive into an exciting array of events at Excel London this May 2026. From thrilling exhibitions to dynamic conferences, this curated list promises an exhilarating month of discovery and engagement.
List of Excel Events May 2026
Cleopatra: The Experience (Now Open)
Cleopatra: The Experience made its UK debut this March at Immerse LDN for a strictly limited 15-week run. Spanning 3,000 square metres and nine interactive galleries, this immersive exhibition takes visitors on a breath-taking journey through Ancient Egypt to uncover the life, reign and legacy of Queen Cleopatra.
UK Construction Week London 2026 (Now Open)
From 12–14 May 2026, UK Construction Week London brings together the brightest minds, boldest innovators and leading brands shaping the built environment, all under one roof at Excel London.
Futurebuild 2026 (Now Open)
Futurebuild 2026 is more than an exhibition. With a reimagined floorplan inspired by our ‘Connect’ theme, Futurebuild is a place where the whole built environment can connect and collaborate. Whether you're looking to discover new materials, explore the latest technologies, or gain insights from the three-day CPD accredited knowledge programme, Futurebuild is designed to ensure that you make the right connections for your business.
The Stone & Surfaces Show 2026 (Now Open)
The UK’s leading event for stone, surfaces and architectural finishes returns for three high impact days of specification, sourcing and sector insight.
FD Show (Now Open)
Join fellow C-suite leaders, accountants from industry and key decision-makers, with 300+ exhibitors and 16,000+ attendees. Learn from 13 theatres and earn up to 16 CPD hours.
Accountex London 2026 (Now Open)
Accountex brings together over 300 top software and service suppliers with a CPD-accredited education programme. Join 16,000+ accountants, bookkeepers and finance professionals over two days.
SITS Service Desk & IT Support Show & MSP Show (Now Open)
It brings together thousands of industry leaders and world-class providers under one roof.
SITS is co-located with the MSP Show. You can attend both exhibitions and education programmes completely free of charge. An unmissable day out of the office for anyone in the MSP and ITSM sectors.
MCM Comic Con (Now Open)
Get ready to dive into the UK’s ultimate Pop Culture celebration at MCM Comic Con this May! From meeting iconic anime and gaming voice actors to catching up with TV and film stars, there’s something for every kind of fan. Explore incredible art and literature from independent creators, celebrate self-expression, and connect with a community that shares your passions. It’s your chance to be yourself, make unforgettable memories, and kick off the convention season in style. Are you ready to join us?
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 contemporary luxury collection of centrally located hotels and restaurants in Tower Hill and Westminster, offering different accommodation styles for short visits, longer stays, business travel, and family trips.
Staying in 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 hotels and residences in this area include Tower suites and Tower Residences, both properties are near Tower Bridge.
This location works 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. Staying in the area puts you within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Big Ben and government and cultural institutions.
Blue Orchid’s Westminster hotel, The Wellington, offers four-star accommodation near Victoria and Westminster Stations, with access to transport links and a calmer residential setting compared to busier tourist areas.
This option will 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 number of curated stay packages across its central London properties, designed to suit different reasons for extending a visit.
Some of these packages include:
Romantic Escape, which combines overnight accommodation with a three-course candlelit dinner, breakfast, and in-room touches such as champagne and a personalised cake.
Royal Time at the Tower, available at Tower Suites, including Tower of London tickets alongside suite-style accommodation.
Relax and Unwind, which pairs an overnight stay with a pre-booked spa treatment at Adamo Spa within Tower Suites.
Family-focused stays, offering suite-style accommodation with kitchens and living areas, suited to families visiting nearby attractions.
Theatre and attraction offers, available when booking direct, guests receive a special book-direct benefit: 10% off West End theatre tickets and selected London attractions..
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.