Top 13 Annual UK Events for Business & Lifestyle not to Miss

By
Manuela Willbold
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events-uk-for-business-and-lifestyle

The United Kingdom is a dynamic hub where innovation, culture, and business converge to create an exhilarating atmosphere. There were around 5.5 million private sector businesses at the start of 2024, and 16.6 million people were employed by SMEs overall in 2024.

Its major cities pulse with energy, hosting a year-round calendar of events catering to diverse interests. From cutting-edge technology conferences to world-renowned arts festivals, the UK offers an unparalleled platform for networking, learning, and inspiration.

These annual events offer a dynamic platform for business and lifestyle engagement. From fashion conferences to banking summits, these events will enhance innovation, cultural exchange and business growth in 2025.

This comprehensive guide showcases some of the most prominent business and lifestyle events nationwide. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur seeking industry insights, a tech enthusiast exploring the latest innovations, or a culture vulture eager to immerse yourself in the arts, you’ll find an event to suit your passions.

Discover the vibrant tapestry of the UK’s event scene and unlock a world of opportunities.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this post was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change. The event list is arranged in ascending order according to their respective dates.

Top Annual Events in London:

1. The British & International Franchise Exhibition (31 January & 1 February 2025)

the-british-international-franchise-exhibition-top-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

The British & International Franchise Exhibition is one of the premier events for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners interested in franchising. It is exclusively supported by BFA.

  • Meet over 100 leading franchise brands and industry experts.
  • Receive one-to-one expert advice and 50+ free presentations and workshops.
  • This session is free of cost and you can attend free seminars on franchising fundamentals, business growth and legal consideration.
  • Explore franchise opportunities with leading overseas brands.
  • Tickets for this event are free.

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2. London Fashion Week (20-24 February 2025)

london-fashion-week-best-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

London Fashion Week is a global fashion epicentre, renowned for setting trends and showcasing the pinnacle of the industry. It will take place in June and September apart from February 2025. It’s a platform where established and emerging designers unveil their collections to a discerning audience of buyers, media, and fashion aficionados.

  • Beyond the British shores, London Fashion Week casts a long shadow on the international fashion scene. It’s where global fashion influencers, buyers, and press converge to witness the latest trends and discover the next big names.
  • The week is a kaleidoscope of creative expression, with a rich tapestry of runway shows, intimate presentations, and immersive installations catering to various tastes and styles.
  • As a magnet for fashion’s elite, London Fashion Week is a melting pot of talent and innovation. It’s where industry leaders, buyers, and influencers come together to forge connections, collaborate on groundbreaking projects, and shape the future of fashion.
  • The event is celebrated for its forward-thinking approach, serving as a launchpad for experimental designs, sustainable fashion initiatives, and technological advancements that redefine the industry.
  • Beyond the glamorous shows, London Fashion Week is a prime opportunity for relationship-building. It’s where designers can connect with potential clients, buyers can discover new talent, and industry professionals can exchange ideas and insights.
  • To keep yourself up to date with London Fashion Week including schedule, price and other announcements, sign up for the newsletter.

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3. The Risk & Compliance Annual Conference 2025 (12 March 2025)

the-risk-compliance-annual-conference-2025-top-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

This flagship conference is led by the UK’s renowned risk and compliance experts. It helps you to tackle the compliance challenges facing your organisation. This program will provide the practical tool to shape the risk agenda and get ahead of regulatory pressure. At this conference, you can come across over 400 practitioners for a day of topical insights, and practical workshops tailored to all firm sizes and networking with industry leaders and compliance peers. The conference of 2025 will focus on improving your firm’s policies and procedures in areas such as:

  • Proposed SRA changes to handling client money.
  • AI supervision and conflicts of interest.
  • Workplace culture and solicitor behaviour.
  • Anti-money laundering risks and economic crime.
  • Boosting a stronger compliance culture.
  • It is a paid conference. The early-bird ticket costs £200 for both online and in-person participation. To avail of this early-bird ticket, you need to register before 17th January 2025.

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4. London Design Festival (13-21 September 2025)

london-design-festival-best-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

London Design Festival is a dynamic celebration that elevates London’s status as a global design epicentre. This nine-day event transforms the city into a living showcase of creativity, with a diverse array of exhibitions, installations, and events occupying iconic landmarks and hidden corners alike.

  • LDF has a key role in the growth of the design industry, bolstering London’s position as a global destination for business, culture and tourism, and contributing to the UK’s reputation as a creative powerhouse.
  • The festival serves as a crucible for groundbreaking ideas, where established and emerging talents unveil designs that push the boundaries of form, function, and aesthetics.
  • By seamlessly integrating design into the urban fabric, the festival invites the public to engage with and appreciate the transformative power of design in everyday life.
  • The event fosters a dynamic ecosystem where designers, architects, and creative professionals from around the world converge to exchange ideas, sparking new collaborations and inspiring future generations.
  • As a major international platform, the London Design Festival provides unparalleled visibility for designers and brands, enabling them to connect with a global audience and build lasting partnerships.
  • Significant installations and projects include “Liquid Light” by Marshmallow Laser Feast and “The Sun, My Heart” by Marjan van Aubel Studio.

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5. The Business Show (12 & 13 November 2025)

the-business-show-top-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

The Business Show is the UK’s largest dedicated platform for businesses of all sizes. A dynamic hub of commerce and innovation, it brings together entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry leaders under one roof.

  • With a staggering attendance of over 50,000 businesses annually, the show offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with a vast audience.
  • It focuses on empowering SMEs and Startups with a mission to connect businesses with the tools they need to succeed.
  • The event boasts a stellar lineup of keynote speakers comprising the crème de la crème of the UK business world. Attendees can gain invaluable insights and inspiration from these industry titans.
  • Beyond networking, the show offers a rich tapestry of workshops, masterclasses, and seminars covering a wide spectrum of business functions, from finance and marketing to growth strategies and leadership development.
  • By concentrating on the core pillars of business growth, finance, and marketing, the show provides attendees with practical tools and knowledge to enhance their business performance.
  • For free tickets, you need to register on the website. Tickets will be posted 1 month before the show, but you will also receive an e-ticket to your email address if you do not have a UK address.

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6. The Financial Times Banking Summit (2-4 December 2025)

he-financial-times-banking-summit-best-annual-event-in-london

About the Event:

The Financial Times Banking Summit is a cornerstone event for the global banking and financial services industry. This prestigious gathering convenes a distinguished assembly of senior executives, policymakers, regulators, and industry thought leaders to delve into the complex and dynamic landscape of modern banking.

  • Attendees gain invaluable knowledge from industry luminaries as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly evolving financial ecosystem.
  • The summit offers unparalleled opportunities to forge strategic partnerships, build relationships, and engage in thought-provoking discussions with peers from around the world.
  • The event delves into the intricacies of the regulatory environment, providing insights into compliance, risk management, and the impact of emerging regulations on the banking industry.
  • The summit explores the transformative power of technology in banking, covering topics such as fintech innovation, data analytics, cybersecurity, and the customer experience.
  • Participants gain a deeper understanding of the global economic landscape, including macroeconomic trends, geopolitical risks, and their implications for the banking sector.
  • The summit fosters a platform for sharing best practices, exploring innovative approaches to business models, and developing the leadership skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the financial industry.
  • The super early-bird supplier pass costs £1999 (excluding VAT), the super early-bird banker group pass costs £499pp (excluding VAT), the super early-bird banker pass costs £699 (excluding VAT) and the super early bird digital pass costs £209 (excluding VAT). For more details, you need to register on their website.

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Top Annual Events in Edinburgh:

7. Edinburgh International Festival (1-24 August 2025)

edinburgh-international-festival-top-annual-event-in-edinburgh

  • Website: https://www.eif.co.uk/
  • Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
  • Contact Details:
    • Email: contact@eif.co.uk
    • Call: +44 131 473 2000
  • Event Link

About the Event:

The Edinburgh International Festival is a cornerstone of the cultural calendar, renowned for its unparalleled celebration of the performing arts. This annual extravaganza transforms Edinburgh into a vibrant hub, attracting a global audience captivated by the diversity of artistic expression.

  • Encompassing opera, music, theatre, and dance, the festival presents a rich tapestry of performances, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences in the 79th Edinburgh International Festival.
  • The theme of 2025 is ‘The Truth We Seek’. This event invites you to explore Truth in all its forms.
  • The festival serves as a prestigious platform for international artists and companies, offering them a unique opportunity to showcase their work to a discerning audience. From established maestros to emerging talents, the lineup is a testament to the festival’s global reach.
  • The 2025 programme will offer contemporary reflections on the world alongside time-honoured tales—a place where fact meets faith and fiction.
  • At the 2025 Festival, Opera Australia and Edinburgh International Festival present Opera Queensland’s production of Orpheus and Eurydice in association with Circa.
  • NYO2 performers aged 14–17, will join their Scottish peers on stage for a family concert. Their visit will form cross-border connections and share the views of the next generation of musicians.
  • You can get an access pass from their website from late January 2025 onwards. The access pass is a free membership scheme for disabled people. The full program will be announced in March and you will get tickets after that period.

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Top Annual Events in Birmingham:

8. Med-Tech Innovation Expo (4 & 5 June 2025)

med-tech-innovation-expo-top-annual-event-in-birmingham

About the Event:

The Med-tech Innovation conference is dedicated to offering a thought-instigating platform for attendees, providing an educational programme that includes technological advancements, business-critical insights, cutting-edge industry applications, and new academic research.

  • In this convention, industry leaders, innovators and professionals are brought together to explore the latest advancements in medical technology.
  • In 2025, the event promises to feature two dynamic stages such as the “Med-tech Innovation stage” and the “Med-tech Insights stage”.
  • The insight stage will feature in-depth discussion on industry trends, regulatory updates and strategic insights from senior representatives of leading healthcare organisations and blue-chip companies. This stage helps to gain insight into the current and future state of the med-tech industry.
  • The innovation stage will highlight the latest innovations in health technology.
  • This conference is free to attend for the registered candidates.

Social Media:

  • X: 9.3k Followers.
  • LinkedIn: 16k Followers.

9. The Advanced Engineering Show (29th & 30th October 2025)

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About the Event:

The Advanced Engineering Show is the UK’s premier showcase for engineering innovation and excellence. It serves as a dynamic platform where industry professionals converge to explore the latest advancements, share knowledge, and foster collaborations.

  • The show encompasses a wide range of engineering sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering, ensuring a diverse audience and a comprehensive overview of industry trends.
  • Beyond static exhibitions, the event features interactive displays, live demonstrations, and product launches, offering attendees an immersive experience of the latest engineering solutions.
  • A series of conferences, workshops, and keynote speeches by industry experts provide valuable insights into emerging technologies, market trends, and best practices.
  • The show facilitates unparalleled networking possibilities, allowing attendees to connect with peers, potential clients, and industry leaders, fostering new partnerships and collaborations.
  • As a hub for innovation, the show spotlights cutting-edge technologies and groundbreaking products, inspiring attendees with the potential of engineering to drive progress and solve global challenges.
  • To get more information about the event, features and new updates, you need to register on their website.

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Top Annual Events in Manchester:

10. Digital Skill Festival: Talent Day (12 February 2025)

digital-skill-festival-top-annual-event-in-manchester

About the Event:

Talent Day is the largest and longest-running specialist careers fair in the North of the UK and a must-attend event for those looking to start work in the industry.

  • Each year over 2,000 graduates and job seekers attend to find out more about the latest tech and digital careers on offer at some of Greater Manchester’s most exciting and innovative tech companies.
  • With over 50 different businesses to talk to and many jobs and other opportunities on offer, grab your ticket to a brighter, digital future.
  • It welcomes students, graduates, boot camp graduates, returners, career changers and job seekers looking for exciting roles in the digital and tech industry, as well as early careers professional development advice and support.
  • Tickets are free but to get access you need to follow the registration link to view the code of conduct.

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11. Digital Transformation Expo London (2-3 April 2025)

digital-transformation-expo-london-best-annual-event-in-manchester

 About the Event:

  • The major event focused on digital transformation and technology in business. A premier gathering exploring the intersection of technology and business strategy. A forum for exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital landscape.
  • Attracts IT decision-makers, business leaders, and technology professionals. Brings together key stakeholders shaping the digital future. A platform for fostering partnerships and collaborations to drive digital initiatives.
  • Features keynote, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops. Offers a rich learning experience with expert insights and practical training. Offers practical skill-building sessions to help attendees implement digital strategies.
  • Covers cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, big data, and IoT. Explores critical technologies driving digital transformation. Examines the role of the Internet of Things in creating connected and intelligent systems.
  • This event is free to attend.

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12. Karren Brady’s Women in Business & Tech (4th June, 2025)

karren-bradys-women-in-business-tech-top-annual-event-in-manchester

  • Website: https://wibtexpomanchester.co.uk/
  • Location: Manchester Central.
  • Contact Details:
    • Email: wibte@hubexhibitions.co.uk
    • Call: +44 (0)1483934381
  • Event Link: To receive more information about this event, please subscribe by completing the form.

About the Event:

Women in Business & Tech Expo is one of the most industry-leading hiring events for those who aspire to thrive in their professional careers and grow their businesses. Apart from Manchester, this business & tech event will take place in London on 1st-2nd October 2025.

  • This award-winning female-led event provides inspiration, guidance, recruitment opportunities and services to supercharge your professional journey at all stages within the technology and business sectors.
  • This expo finds employers that empower their female workforce.
  • Learn how to progress in tech or enter the field.
  • It helps to discover companies invested in the success of women at work and learn how retraining, upskilling and reskilling could change your career path.

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13. Manchester Literature Festival (10-26 October 2025)

manchester-literature-festival-best-annual-event-in-manchester

About the Event:

Manchester Literature Festival is a celebration of imagination, ideas, stories and voices from around the world. In 2025, the Manchester Literature Festival will celebrate its 20th year.

  • Showcases renowned and emerging authors, poets, and playwrights. Presents celebrated literary figures whose works have shaped the cultural landscape. Highlights the richness and complexity of human experience through the written word.
  • Features readings, panel discussions, and workshops. Offers intimate encounters with authors as they share their work aloud. Creates a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere for literary enthusiasts and aspiring writers.
  • Offers networking opportunities for writers and publishing professionals. Facilitates connections between authors, agents, editors, and publishers. Encourages the exchange of ideas and knowledge within the literary community.
  • Includes book signings and literary tours around the city. Creates memorable experiences for readers to meet their favourite authors and collect autographed copies. Stimulates interest in reading and writing among the general public.

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Conclusion

The UK’s dynamic tapestry of business and culture is woven together through a vibrant calendar of events. From the bustling metropolis of London to the cultural heartlands of Scotland, these events offer a unique blend of professional development, networking opportunities, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek to expand your business horizons, discover groundbreaking innovations, or immerse yourself in the rich cultural fabric of the nation, these events cater to a diverse range of interests and ambitions.

Each event serves as a catalyst for inspiration, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. By attending these gatherings, you gain access to a wealth of expertise, connect with like-minded individuals, and stay at the forefront of industry trends. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply a curious explorer, these events provide a platform to learn, grow, and forge lasting connections.

So, mark your calendars, explore the diverse offerings, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the UK’s event scene. Visit the event websites to learn more and secure your place. Prepare to be inspired, connected, and empowered as you embark on this exciting journey of discovery and growth.

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