It's just over 170 miles from my house to Warhammer world. I know this, because last Saturday I jumped in the car with a friend and did a round trip in a day. Was it worth the six hours to go up and back, for less than that at the venue? Yes. Yes it was. HELL yes, it was.
You'll have more access to the GW range than at any other location on the planet - and if it's in the warehouse, they'll bring it over for you. And of course you can buy Forgeworld off the shelf, or if they don't have it they'll deliver it for you and give you money off to boot. Plus, if you are after Limited Edition stuff, Warhammer World is hands down your best chance for getting it (I picked up the Death Korps of Krieg Senior Command blister which has been off the website for months).
But shopping is obvious, and it's not the main reason you should visit. Not by a longshot.
Bugman's Bar is as cool and as themed as it sounds. From the chandeliers made from huge cart wheels, to the Dwarf Throne by the fireplace, to the shields (and even the Orc's head) that adorn the walls, GW have done themed pubs right. The menu is comically named after Age of Sigmar-style food, and harbours some real treats. One particular type of dirty fries - which popcorn chicken and Katsu curry sauce - is an absolute must-try.
The drinks are priced above the area's average as you'd expect, (£4.50 to £5 a pint). Whilst it's likely to stop you indulging in an all-day session, they do boast a range of ales made especially for them, with names like Troll Brew and Bugman's XXXXXX (or six x, for those in the know). You can even ask for plastic cups if you want to take them next door into the gaming hall.
Oh god - the gaming hall. Decorated in the style of a castle, it boasts a vast array of Realm-of-Battle style boards with terrain pieces, and even a spread of spectacular custom-built tables.
Any one of these breathtaking and story-invoking would cost us mere mortals hundreds of pounds at the least, not to mention the skill and vision that went into each.
And you're free to book any of the tables - custom or otherwise - over the phone for your visit. They have the system down so well, we've already run one of our events here, and have another happening in just under a month.
And yet - access to almost the entire range of models, a great themed pub and gaming tables most can only dream of are still just part of the appeal. If you're headed to Warhammer World, the exhibition cannot be missed.
Unless you're on the hunt for limited models and books, make the Exhibition the very first thing you do. A ticket will cost you £7.50 (with concessions for families and under-18's) and is valid for the entire day for as many visits as you'd like. Trust me - if it's your first visit, you'll want to go back a second time that day.
All of those models you've seen in the Codexes, Battle Tomes, Army Books and White Dwarf? They're right there, behind glass. Some of GW's earliest models and most iconic dioramas give you a real sense of just how well they have perfected their art.
It could be an Empire city besieged by Orks or Scions in a Black Hawk Down situation against huge numbers of Orks. How about Kharadron Overlords fighting Flesheater Courts amongst the clouds, or a massive Imperial attack on a Tau outpost? The huge battle-display cases will have you captivated for as long as you care to be, and you'll spot new details every time you visit.
For me, the real magic comes from their setups that don't actually feature fights. The Warlord Titan having the rights of activation read by a Tech Priest. The Nurgle Fortress spewing forth its legions. The pre-Horusy Legion embarking on its transports. The Ossiarch Bonereapers fortress and its tributes of skulls.
Warhammer world will drive home what makes Warhammer the success that it is. It's not just about the combat. It's about the setting. It'll invigorate your hobby. It'll give you more ideas than you have the time, money or will to attempt, let alone complete. And you owe it to yourself to bring someone who is interested in the hobby, or who has lapsed from it for a while. Their wonder and excitement is honestly one of my favourite things about a Warhammer World visit.
There's a reason I don't include photos of the exhibits themselves. Don't find them online. See them in person. You'll be so glad you did.
That exhibition speaks to me in whispers. What it says specifically?... that's none of your damn business. But it also has something to say loud and clear to all of us:
Right now, as it is, there is already more than enough in this hobby to keep you occupied for a lifetime. Let your imagination run wild. It's what this hobby was made for.
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