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UK Journalism Conferences Calendar

Major UK journalism conferences and events grouped by season — typical months, location, format and what to expect.

Listings are illustrative, current at last review. Specific dates change year to year; always confirm with the event organiser before booking travel or accommodation.

Last reviewed: Next review due:

UK journalists have access to a rich calendar of professional conferences, from the Society of Editors' autumn gathering to Press Gazette's Future of Media Technology Conference and the NUJ's OnMedia event. International festivals with strong UK attendance — particularly the International Journalism Festival in Perugia — are also included below.

We have grouped events by season rather than listing specific dates, as annual scheduling shifts by several weeks from year to year. The “typical month” column reflects historic patterns only. Bursary information, where available, is noted; early-career journalists should check each organiser's website for current delegate support.

Spring (March – May)

Perugia, Italy (major UK/international attendance)

One of the world's largest journalism festivals. Panels, workshops and debates covering digital journalism, press freedom and the media business. Strong UK journalist and speaker presence.

London

Focused on digital security for journalists and news organisations. Covers encryption, device security, source protection and threat modelling.

Summer (June – August)

London

Annual awards ceremony celebrating journalists, artists and activists who defend freedom of expression. Followed by a programme of events and discussions.

International; UK satellite events

The Global Investigative Journalism Network runs regional training and networking events. UK sessions focus on cross-border investigations, data journalism and source protection.

Autumn (September – November)

London

Press Gazette's flagship annual conference. Covers media business models, digital transformation, audience engagement and AI in journalism. Attracts senior editors and media executives.

UK (rotating city)

Annual gathering of senior editors from national, regional and digital titles. Programme covers editorial leadership, regulatory issues (IPSO, IMPRESS) and industry sustainability.

UK

National Union of Journalists annual conference and delegate meeting. Covers trade union issues, pay negotiations, freelance rights and media industry policy.

Winter (December – February)

Various UK cities

The post-awards season sees regional press and broadcast associations holding networking dinners and CPD days. Check regional NUJ branches and local press associations for specific events.

How we keep this current

We review this calendar every six months, checking event organiser websites and announcements from the NUJ, Society of Editors, Press Gazette and GIJN. If an event has moved, been cancelled or if we have missed a significant UK journalism conference, please let us know.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these dates confirmed for the next event?
No. This directory lists typical months and seasons based on historic scheduling. Exact dates for any given year must be confirmed with the event organiser directly. Always check the official event website.
How can I get a press pass to these conferences?
Most UK journalism conferences offer press or delegate rates for working journalists. Apply via the event's official website; a recognised press card (NUJ, UKPCA) may be required. Some events offer bursaries for early-career journalists.
Are there online or hybrid options?
Several conferences, particularly those that adapted during 2020–2022, continue to offer hybrid or fully online attendance. Check each organiser's website for the current format.
How do I get my organisation listed here?
Use our contact form to suggest a UK journalism conference or event we have not covered. We review and update this directory every six months.

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