Since its launch in 2017, The UK Drum Show has grown from strength to strength. Originally debuting in Manchester, England, and later relocating to the ACC Liverpool in 2022 following the COVID-19 pandemic, the show shows no signs of slowing down — and 2025 will be no exception.
In its early years, the event featured a single main auditorium for live performances and an intimate clinic room for artist-led sessions, alongside a bustling exhibition hall where visitors could try and buy from the largest collection of drums, percussion, and accessories in the UK.
Today, the show has evolved into a multi-level experience across the ACC Liverpool campus, now boasting 12 dedicated Experience Rooms. These include artist clinics, educational sessions, free drum lessons, practice pad areas, hands-on digital drum advice, the immersive Sabian Cymbal Vault, and much more — creating a truly interactive, player-focused event.
At the heart of the weekend is the 5,000 sqm exhibition hall, hosting everything from small boutique drum makers to industry giants such as Roland and Yamaha. Together, they create the largest drum and percussion showcase in the UK, offering visitors an unrivalled opportunity to see, test, and compare gear in one place.
For 2025, the artist lineup is bigger than ever. A total of 32 performers will appear across the Main Stage, Education Room, Clinic Room, and Digital Drum Room — with an additional 24 emerging drummers featured on the Main Stage Mini, a platform introduced in 2024 to celebrate and support the next generation of young players. Many artists will also appear at exhibitor booths for close-up demonstrations, meet-and-greets, and signing sessions, making the event a unique chance to connect with drumming’s most exciting names.
“While the wider musical instrument (MI) industry has faced its share of challenges — from retailer closures to inflation and shifting trade tariffs — the enthusiasm for drumming remains strong. Attendance at The UK Drum Show continues to grow each year, reflecting the passion of UK and international drummers to come together, discover new gear, and be inspired. With fewer dedicated drum stores across the country, the show has become a must-visit destination for players looking to explore a huge range of products under one roof — whether to purchase directly, or to try before ordering from their local retailer.
“With present ticket sales tracking up on last year, and following historic ticket trends towards the last weeks ahead of the show, come doors opening on Saturday 18th of October, we are forecasting a 26.8 increase in ticket sales for the UK Drum Show 2025”, states Neil Golding the show founder and organiser.
Golding continues, “above all, The UK Drum Show has remained community-driven, creating a space where drummers of all levels can celebrate their craft, discover new ideas, and connect with one another. This is true of the numerous companies that share our vision and continue to support our event and reap the benefits as the show and its attendance grows. In 2025, that spirit will be stronger than ever with both new and returning exhibits to champion this sector further.”
Dates for the 2026 UK Drum Show at the ACC Liverpool are the 24th & 25th October. For further information please contact organiser@theukdrumshow.com