An eventful Welcome Week kicks off with the Welcome Fair! This is your chance to discover our 300+ student activity groups and 70 sports clubs, learn about the services offered by KCLSU, meet fellow students and score some student discounts and freebies.
This year, the Welcome Fair will be held on Monday 21 September from 10am–8pm at Old Billingsgate Market (Riverside, 16 Lower Thames St, London, EC3R 6DX).
Welcome Fair can understandably be a little overwhelming with so many groups in one place and only so much time! We've compiled everything you need to know (and a few insider tips) to help you enjoy and make the most of your time at one of Welcome Week's biggest events.
Get your free ticket
Be sure to get your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets are free and can be booked here: KCLSU Welcome Fair 2026. Each ticket allows you to enter within a specific time slot. We recommend joining the queue as soon as your slot begins to ensure you make it in. Please avoid joining the queue before your entrance time!
What to bring
Bring your ticket confirmation which will be in the form of an email receipt and your King's ID.
Navigating the fair
There will be a one-way route to help manage the flow of people, and you will be able to stay for around 2 hours. You will also be given a coloured wristband – listen for announcements regarding your colour to know when you should leave the fair.
Quiet hour
There will be a quiet hour from 10-11am with no loud music and a reduced capacity.
Accessible entrance
If you require step-free access to the venue please enter on the Roadside of Old Billingsgate on Lower Thames Street. If you require a lift inside the venue, head to our Accessible Entrance desk to receive an Accessibility pass for lifts.
TOP TIPS 📝
Tip #1: Join a Welcome Fair meet up
Join a meet up to explore the fair with a group of people! Your group will gather at Guy’s Campus before heading to the fair together. Get your free ticket here: KCLSU Welcome Fair 2026: Meet Ups! By booking a meet up ticket you do not need to book another ticket to the Welcome Fair.
Tip #2: Browse online before the fair
We recommend browsing the full list of student groups and sports clubs to get an idea of who you’re eager to meet to help prioritise your time in the fair! Follow their socials to find out where exactly they will be in the fair. Don’t be shy, however, to speak to any groups that unexpectedly grab your attention.
It’s also worth noting that not all student groups will be at the Welcome Fair so browse online to make sure you don’t miss anything that may spark your interest.
Tip #3: Don't bring a bag
We recommend not bringing a bag to avoid queues for bag checks. You’ll be given a tote bag upon entry to carry your goodies and pamphlets.
Tip #4: Collect freebies from student groups too!
While many will flock to commercial stalls in search for freebies, don’t forget that student groups and sports clubs will be giving out goodies too. A collection of memorabilia from various student groups can make an unexpectedly special keepsake.
Tip #5: Sign up to groupchats
Many student groups will be advertising their social media and WhatsApp group chats. These are great way to stay updated, especially if you are interested in joining one of their upcoming taster sessions before officially becoming a member.
Tip #6: Ask many, many questions
Don’t be afraid to take up a committee members time if you’re interested in their society! Ask about upcoming events, how often the society meet and if they have any flagship events to look forward too.
Tip #7: Going Alone? Don't Worry!
While some might prefer to attend the fair with a buddy, it is also completely okay to attend alone! Coming by yourself will allow you to visit booths freely and chat to as many people as you wish. You may also end up making a friend along the way.
Check out our Welcome Fair FAQ page if you have any other questions! Still eager to meet fellow freshers after the Welcome Fair? Made a friend and looking for somewhere to chit chat? Head to our Post Welcome Fair Social at Guy's Bar after the fair – no ticket needed!