YORK SET TO HOST ITS LARGEST EVER BOARD GAMES CONVENTION THIS OCTOBER
23-25 October 2026
The York Board Games Convention returns to St Peter's School for its third year, featuring TV stars from The Traitors, a 600-game library, extended opening hours, and free entry for under-16s.
YORK, NORTH YORKSHIRE - York is preparing to host the biggest tabletop gaming event in the city’s history as the York Board Games Convention returns for its third consecutive year. Held at the historic St Peter’s School, the 2026 convention promises to be larger, more accessible, and open later than ever before.
Originally launched in 2024, the convention has rapidly grown into a staple date on the regional cultural calendar. To meet rising demand, organisers have hired more space and extended evening opening hours until 11:00pm, giving players even more time to gather around the table.
Headlining this year’s convention are special guest stars Ivan Brett and Wilfred Webster, fan favourites from the hit television series The Traitors. With the brand-new season of Celebrity Traitors currently captivating viewers across the country, attendees will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, strategy breakdowns, and opportunities to play alongside two stars who have experienced the nation’s favourite game of social deception firsthand.
The core of the event remains its impressive board games library, which has expanded to feature around 600 titles ranging from family classics to the latest international releases. Visitors can borrow games to play in the vast open gaming hall or explore a packed schedule of dedicated activities, including:
- The Forge: A specialized zone dedicated to tabletop role-playing games (RPGs).
- Blood on the Clocktower: Facilitated sessions of the popular social deduction party game.
- Playtesting Zone: An interactive area where aspiring local game designers showcase prototype games for public feedback.
- Bring & Buy Sale: A community market for attendees to buy and sell pre-loved gaming treasures.
- Independent Traders: Stalls featuring independent publishers and creators
- Giant Games: Oversized versions of beloved games.
- Food & Drink: A variety of local food vendors serving refreshments throughout the day.
Accessibility and community inclusion remain central to the event's ethos. Venue facilities at St Peter’s School offer complete level access throughout, ensuring full mobility support for all visitors, and entry is completely free for children under the age of 16 making it an affordable day out for local families. On-site parking is also available for guests.
"We have been overwhelmed by the incredible response from the York community over the past two years," said Ryan, one of the event directors at York Board Games Convention. "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."
Tickets, schedule details, and further information are available now via the official website at
ybgc.co.uk
York Board Games Convention 2026 (3rd Annual Edition)
Venue: St Peter's School, Clifton, York, YO30 6AB
Opening Hours: 9am - 11:00pm
Admission: Free for under-16s (must be accompanied by an adult). All tickets available online.
Website: https://ybgc.co.uk/
Key Highlights:
Official special guests: Ivan Brett and Wilfred Webster (The Traitors)
Over 600 board games available in the open play library
Level access throughout the venue and dedicated accessibility provisions
Free parking available on-site
