After a successful first year, The Great Western Tattoo Show will return to Swindon's Steam Museum once again.

The introduction of Swindon's first-ever tattoo show in 2023 was a momentous event after organiser Gary Watts had to lobby for a change in the council's licensing policy just to get the event off the ground.

But the effort was entirely worth it as hundreds flocked to the 2023 convention in the Steam Museum's Great Hall, which saw 70 tattoo artists from around the UK do what they do best.

Those not after a new tattoo could still enjoy live DJ music, an alternative market, a bar and coffee area and even a haircut.

Now, the convention will return to Swindon for its second year - and here are all the details you need to know.

Swindon's tattoo convention brought in crowds of visitors hoping to get a tattoo or grab some good food.Swindon's tattoo convention brought in crowds of visitors who were drawn to the colourful, intricate designs and the many food trucks. (Image: Dave Cox)

The Great Western Tattoo Show 2024 - what you need to know

The 2024 tattoo show will return to Steam Museum in Swindon on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28.

The 2024 event will include up to 100 tattoo artists, numerous trader stands, a bar, coffee kiosk, food trucks and live entertainment.

Advance ticket holders will be able to enter the convention at 10am, and tickets on the door will be available at 11am with the event closing at 7pm.

An adult ticket is priced at £16.75 for one day, or £27.75 for the whole weekend, and under 14s can enter free but do still need a ticket.

Over-18s hoping to get a new tattoo at the event will need to bring ID and be sober, and children are welcome at the event but will not be allowed into the tattoo booths.

If you want something specific, you can get in touch with each artist before the event for advance bookings and custom designs, but there will also be lots of pre-drawn designs available on the day.

Those who aren't after a tattoo can also browse from a range of barbers and piercers, or just come for the food and drink.

"I wouldn't get a tattoo with everyone watching, but it's a good vibe and the tattoos looked great," visitor Dan Gallagher told the Adver at last year's event.

"It's nice to have something different in Swindon, and it's good for the artists as well."

All visiting tattoo artists at the event have been given a temporary licence by Swindon Borough Council and so are as safe and legal as those you would find in a permanent studio.