visiting PATS
Commonly asked questions by visitors when attending PATS
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Where is PATS held & how do I travel there?
PATS is held in Hall 3 & 3a at the NEC, Birmingham. B40 1NT
When you arrive at the NEC, look out for PATS on the venue signs. The post code will not take you to the car park for PATS so please follow signage.
The NEC offers great transport links from within the UK and Internationally. For more information on these please visit How to get to PATS or visit the NEC website for further travel information.
Parking charges apply if you do choose to drive, and we recommend you book your parking ticket in advance. Advance parking cost is £13.95 per day, on the day the charge is £18.95 per day. Parking can be pre-booked via the NEC website. Event Parking is normally available to book 3 months before the event.
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What are the opening times?
PATS 2026 Opening Times:
Sunday 27th September 09:30 - 17:00
Monday 28th September 09:30 - 17:00
Tuesday 29th September 09:30 - 16:00 -
How do I register for PATS?
You can register for free online.
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Do I need to register to enter the show?
Yes, you will need to register for PATS. This can be done either on arrival or prior to the event, both options are free of charge.
Registering in advance is the quickest and easiest way, once you’ve registered your ticket will be emailed to you for you to print. On arrival you can collect a lanyard and badge holder. Should you wish, you can get your badge printed at one of the registration points on your arrival at PATS. Your badge gives you full access to enter the show.
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I have lost my eticket and visitor reference details. Do I need to reregister?
No, simply click on PATS registration and login to your account. This will take you to your registration Summary page, which has all the details of your booking. If you have forgotten your password, click the reset link and follow the prompts. If you have any problems, just email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. who will be able to assist you. -
How much does it cost?
Registration and entry to PATS is completely free of charge.
The NEC offers great transport links from within the UK and Internationally. For more information on these please visit How to get to PATS or visit the NEC website for further travel information.
Parking charges apply if do you choose to drive, and we recommend you book your parking ticket in advance. Advance parking cost is £13.95 per day, on the day the charge is £18.95 per day. Parking can be pre-booked via the NEC website. Event Parking is normally available to book 3 months before the event.
When you arrive at the NEC, look out for PATS on the venue signs. The post code will not take you to the car park for PATS so please follow signage.
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Can I bring a colleague or guest?
Yes; you can bring along as many people as you wish, but they must be members of the trade and registered to visit – either on the day or in advance. Registering a colleague is easy. Simply click on the link in your confirmation email or login to your account. Either way, you will be directed to your registration summary page. Once on this page, either click on the ‘Invite’ active link or scroll to the ‘Invite a colleague’ button and enter their email address and click the ‘Invite via email’ link.
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Is PATS open to the general public?
No. PATS is a trade-only event; it’s open to retailers, distributors, manufacturers or other professionals in the pet & aquatics supplies market and is at the discretion of the exhibition organiser. Please see Admissions Policy for further details.
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How much does parking cost?
When you arrive at the NEC, look out for PATS on the venue signs. The post code will not take you to the car park for PATS so please follow signage.
The NEC offers great transport links from within the UK and Internationally. For more information on these please visit How to get to PATS or visit the NEC website for further travel information.
Parking charges apply if you do choose to drive, and we recommend you book your parking ticket in advance. Advance parking cost is £13.95 per day, on the day the charge is £18.95 per day and Visitor Express is £26.95. Parking can be pre-booked via the NEC website where further information is also available. Event Parking is normally available to book 3 months before the event.
Can I bring my dog or other pets to the show?
With the exception of assistance dogs, other service animals and animals on stands, no pets or animals of any description will be allowed into the Event.
Please make arrangements for their care prior to arriving at the show.
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Are children allowed into PATS?
As this is a trade event children under 16 years of age can be admitted to the show, however they must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
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Refreshments facilities at the show? Do you cater for special diets?
There is a wide range of food on offer at the NEC, Birmingham. Take a look at their website for information on what is open during PATS and to view the menus.
There is also a range of further restaurants at Resorts World, a short walk from Hall 1 - take a look
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What access and facilities do you have for disabled visitors?
The NEC aims to be fully user-friendly for visitors with access needs. There is a quick guide to some of their facilities on the NEC website – if you would like to know more, please contact them directly.
Blue badge holders can watch this video for further information.
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Can I pay in cash at The NEC?
No, The NEC Is a cashless venue so you can only pay by debit/credit card.
However there are portable cash dispensers (withdrawal fees apply) around the venue, while free NatWest and HSBC ATMs can be found at the train station.
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How do I apply for a invitation letter to visit PATS 2026
Information to on how to apply for a Visa Invitation letter to exhibit at PATS 2026 will follow shortly
Still have questions?
Should you wish to ask anything else or discuss any of the below in more detail please do contact us.
