The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, UK, is one of the largest and most popular event spaces in Europe. With over 182,000 square meters of exhibition space, the NEC hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from conferences and trade shows to concerts and sports events. In this guide, we will explore the facilities available at the NEC, including its exhibition halls, conference centers, and amenities.
Exhibition Halls
The NEC has 20 interconnected exhibition halls, each with its own unique characteristics and features. The halls are divided into four main areas: the Atrium, the Pavilion, the NEC Arena, and the Resorts World Arena. The Atrium is the main entrance to the NEC and features a large, open-plan space with a glass roof. The Pavilion is a flexible event space that can be divided into smaller areas for different events. The NEC Arena and Resorts World Arena are two of the largest indoor arenas in the UK, hosting major concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.
Exhibition Hall Specifications
Each exhibition hall at the NEC has its own set of specifications, including floor space, ceiling height, and loading capacity. The following table provides a summary of the specifications for each hall:
| Hall | Floor Space (sqm) | Ceiling Height (m) | Loading Capacity (tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4,870 | 7.5 | 10 |
| 2 | 4,870 | 7.5 | 10 |
| 3 | 4,870 | 7.5 | 10 |
| 4 | 4,870 | 7.5 | 10 |
| 5 | 4,870 | 7.5 | 10 |
The NEC also offers a range of state-of-the-art facilities, including Wi-Fi connectivity, audio-visual equipment, and catering services. The venue is also fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, with features such as ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets.
Conference Centers
The NEC has several conference centers, each with its own unique features and facilities. The Birmingham Convention Centre is a purpose-built conference center with 10 meeting rooms and a main auditorium that can seat up to 400 delegates. The NEC also has a range of smaller meeting rooms and suites, perfect for intimate gatherings and board meetings.
Conference Center Specifications
Each conference center at the NEC has its own set of specifications, including room capacity, audio-visual equipment, and catering facilities. The following table provides a summary of the specifications for each center:
| Center | Room Capacity | Audio-Visual Equipment | Catering Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham Convention Centre | 400 | Projector, screen, sound system | Yes |
| Meeting Room 1 | 20 | Projector, screen, sound system | No |
| Meeting Room 2 | 20 | Projector, screen, sound system | No |
Amenities
The NEC has a range of amenities to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. These include:
- Restaurants and cafes: The NEC has a range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and snack bars.
- Shops: The NEC has a range of shops, including gift shops, newsagents, and convenience stores.
- ATMs and currency exchange: The NEC has several ATMs and currency exchange facilities throughout the venue.
- Prayer rooms: The NEC has prayer rooms for visitors of all faiths.
What are the opening hours of the NEC?
+The NEC is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. The venue is also open on weekends and bank holidays for specific events.
How do I get to the NEC?
+The NEC is located near Birmingham Airport and is accessible by car, train, and bus. The venue is also served by a range of taxi and private hire companies.
Can I bring my own food and drink into the NEC?
+No, the NEC has a range of dining options and does not allow visitors to bring their own food and drink into the venue.
In conclusion, the NEC is a world-class event space with a range of facilities and amenities to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. With its state-of-the-art exhibition halls, purpose-built conference centers, and range of dining and shopping options, the NEC is the perfect venue for any event.
