Build It Live South West returns to Exeter as self-build prospects brighten
Build It Live South West returns to Westpoint Arena, Exeter, on 12 and 13 September 2026. The event will offer inspiration, practical advice and expert guidance for anyone planning to build, renovate, extend or improve their home. The Exeter shows come at a helpful time for self builders, as two of the biggest barriers - finding a suitable plot and securing planning permission - are becoming easier to navigate than they were last year with the revisions by the government to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
PlotBrowser.com, the UK’s premier portal for self-build plots with planning permission for a new or replacement dwelling, reports that in the South West there are currently nearly 50% more plots on the market than two years ago with all these plots now available to choose from on their website. At the same time, the revised NPPF gives applicants stronger grounds to justify well-planned self-build proposals in many planning districts, including schemes in sustainable locations and near well-connected railway stations. Self-build finance remains a consideration, but it is a more distant third barrier than land and planning.
Created by the team behind Build It magazine, Build It Live brings hundreds of products, trusted suppliers, specialist advice clinics and real-life project stories together under one roof. For anyone considering a self build or extension, the show offers a practical way to understand how the revised National Planning Policy Framework, improved plot availability and expert advice could affect their own project.
Visitors can compare products up close, quiz suppliers on the best options for their project, book free one-to-one sessions with Build It’s independent experts and drop into a packed programme of seminars and workshops throughout the day. Anyone looking for land, assessing a plot, seeking planning permission, choosing a structural system, comparing heating options or selecting glazing, can visit one of the show knowing they are designed to help every project move forward with confidence.
Whether visitors are dreaming of a brand-new self build, weighing up an extension, restoring a period property or trying to make their home more energy efficient, Build It Live offers practical ideas they can take away and use immediately.
Chris Batesmith, Build It’s Content Director, said: “We are delighted to be returning to the South West this September for Build It Live. It’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors to meet trusted experts face to face, get clear and practical answers to their questions, and discover the products and ideas that could shape their future homes.”
‘Six reasons visitors will leave Build It Live inspired, informed and ready to take the next step with their home project
1. Visitors can meet the suppliers behind tomorrow’s homes
For people making high-value decisions about their homes, nothing beats seeing materials, systems and finishes in person. Build It Live brings together leading suppliers, architects and product specialists so visitors can compare options, ask detailed questions and find the right solutions for their own projects.
Expect everything from sliding doors, eco products and smart home systems to structural solutions including insulated concrete formwork, structural insulated panels, brick and masonry, timber frame and oak frame. It is a rich source of product inspiration, expert commentary and practical trend insight for homes and interiors.
2. Free talks and workshops tackle the new planning questions self builders are asking
The live seminar and workshop programme is built around the real challenges homeowners face, from budgeting and planning to design decisions, energy efficiency and avoiding costly mistakes. With the revised NPPF now in place following consultation earlier this year, visitors can learn what has changed, how the default “yes” principle near well-connected railway stations may work in practice, and how to prepare a stronger planning case for a self-build home, garden plot or replacement dwelling.
Seminars such as ‘A Step-by-Step Guide to Self Build’ and ‘Renovating a Home with Character’ are hosted by Build It’s magazine experts, while specialist workshops cover topics including planning strategy, heating systems, finding land and choosing the right products and materials.
3. Independent experts offer free one-to-one guidance
The popular Ask Our Experts lounge gives visitors free, impartial advice from Build It magazine’s specialists on their own self-build, renovation or extension plans. Planners, architects, project managers, sustainability experts and other professionals will be available to help visitors work through practical questions, from garden plot feasibility and neighbour impact to access, design quality, infrastructure and evidence for applications under the updated planning framework.
On arrival at Build It Live you can book free one-on-one appointments with experts and talk through your project plans
These free consultations can offer the kind of focused, project-specific guidance that would normally come at a cost, making them a major draw for serious renovators and self builders. Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early and bring plans, sketches or questions with them.
4. Real self builders share the stories behind their finished homes
In the Build It Live Workshop Theatre, visitors can hear directly from people who have already completed their own self build or renovation projects. Their real-life stories reveal what it really takes to bring a dream home to life - from the big decisions and unexpected challenges to the practical lessons they wish they had known at the start. It’s an inspiring opportunity for future self builders to learn from those who have already been through the journey.
5. Finding Land at The Plot Zone
Finding land remains the biggest barrier for would-be self builders, but more plots with planning permission are now available. Build It’s dedicated Plot Zone brings the PlotBrowser platform to life, helping visitors explore live opportunities, understand different routes to finding a plot and get practical tips for securing viable land. It will also cover how to assess underused plots, garden land, replacement dwelling opportunities and sites near transport hubs.
6. Specialist advice clinics cover the details that make or break a project
Alongside the show’s product displays and live talks, free drop-in advice clinics give visitors access to specialists who can answer project-specific questions on subjects including heating, build costs, extensions and basements.
Visit the Advice Clinics for project-specific advice on your own self build, renovation or home extension.
For those facing technical decisions or trying to control budgets, these clinics offer a valuable opportunity to get straight-talking advice before committing to the next stage of a project.
Tickets and Event Details
Tickets for Build It Live: Standard tickets cost £12 per person, and children under 16 go free when accompanied by an adult. Build It Live South West takes place at Westpoint Arena, Exeter, on Saturday 12 September 2026 from 10:00 to 16:30 and Sunday 13 September from 10:00 to 16:00. Tickets are valid for either day or both days of the event.
For further information and to book tickets, visit www.builditlive.co.uk
2026 Build It Live Show Dates and Venues
Build It Live South West - Westpoint Arena, 12-13 September 2026 Address: Clyst St Mary, Exeter, Devon, EX5 1DJ
Build It Live South East - Kent Event Centre 26-27 February 2027 Address: Kent County Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF
Build It Live West - Three Counties Showground, 5-6 June 2027 Address: Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 6NW
About Build It Live
For over 30 years, Build It magazine has provided guidance, advice, and inspiration to individuals looking to build their own homes, renovate properties, or undertake extension and conversion projects. As Britain’s longest running self-build magazine, Build It is an indispensable monthly guide to custom home building, DIY, and renovation. The Build It Live exhibitions bring the magazine’s expertise to life each year around the UK.
