RulesCon 2026

We’re delighted to officially announce that RulesCon 2026 will take place from 8th–10th May 2026 at The Angel Hotel, Cardiff.

This year marks 16 years of Rules of Play — and this event started as something small but has grown into one of the highlights of our gaming calendar.

Where It All Began

RulesCon was originally born out of International Tabletop Day — a simple idea: open the doors, put games on tables, and invite people to play.

What we discovered was something special.

People didn’t just come to play — they came to connect. Families stayed all day. Strangers formed gaming groups. Competitive rivalries were born (and occasionally settled).

Over the years, that one-day celebration evolved into a full weekend board game festival — but the heart of it hasn’t changed.

RulesCon is still about getting great games to the table with great people.

What Makes RulesCon… RulesCon

Alongside open gaming, you’ll have access to our extensive library of demo games — from light party favourites to deeper strategy titles — all ready to play throughout the weekend.

Our welcoming learn-to-play team will be on hand to help you find something you’ll love.

We’re also proud to host some much-loved competitive events and don’t worry, our flagship PitchCar Tournament (fast, chaotic, and fiercely contested) will still be there!!

As usual, Blood on the Clocktower will be facilitated across the weekend — always a highlight, always dramatic, and always memorable.

Whether you’re playing for glory or just for fun, these events have become firm favourites.

And if competitive flicking isn’t your thing? Don’t worry — there’s plenty more happening.

RPGs, D&D & TCGs

RulesCon isn’t just board games.

Across the weekend we run learn-to-play sessions for Dungeons & Dragons, other RPG systems, and a range of trading card games.

If you’ve ever wanted to try roleplaying but didn’t know where to start, this is a perfect opportunity. Friendly Game Masters, welcoming tables, and no prior experience needed.

New for 2026

This year we’re introducing something new: Local Geek Faire Stalls

For the first time, we’re inviting local creators, artists, and makers to be part of the weekend — bringing even more creativity and personality to the festival atmosphere.

We’re also planning to announce some exciting new gaming events later in the year, expanding what Rules of Play offers beyond the festival weekend itself. Watch this space…

A Relaxed, Welcoming Weekend

RulesCon is designed to be easy and welcoming.

Come and go as you please. Play all day. Take breaks. Grab food and drinks at the venue. Catch up with friends. Discover something new.

We’ve kept the event accessible and relaxed so you can focus on what matters most — enjoying great games.

In previous years we’ve reached capacity — particularly on Saturday — so we recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out.

Part of Something Bigger

RulesCon is just one part of the growing Rules of Play community — alongside our shop, events, and Bran – Belgium Beers and Boardgames, where board games and great Belgian beers come together year-round.

If you’ve joined us before — thank you.

If 2026 will be your first time — we can’t wait to welcome you.

Join Us at the Table

RulesCon 2026 runs 8th–10th May 2026 at The Angel Hotel in Cardiff.

Come for the tournaments.
Come for the RPGs.
Come for Blood on the Clocktower.
Come to discover your next favourite game.

Or simply come to spend a weekend surrounded by people who love tabletop gaming as much as you do.

Tickets are available now:

https://rulesofplay.co.uk/collections/rulescon2026

We’ll see you there!