Scale model and figure show, competition and retail event in Yorkshire

The annual Leeds Open Scale Model Show – which was previously held in Huddersfield and Halifax but now has a home at the Royal Armouries New Dock Hall – has something for every scale and figure modeller.

There’s inspiration at every table as model clubs from around the country showcase the talented work of their members – no exaggeration to say there’s a match for every niche, and a like-minded modeller to talk hobby fun and art with.

The show has been put together by the enthusiasts at IPMS Wakefield and District & White Rose Guild of Miniature Painters, and they’ve worked hard to make it the best yet.

On top of the amazing displays from model clubs, one of the biggest draws is the retailers who flock to the show. It could be you want new paints or brushes, more glue, spare parts, after-market, latest tech in tools in an ever-evolving hobby or long out of production kits, you will find it all under one roof. And as well as an enviable array of new items to buy – and as every hobbyist knows, that’s a huge part of the fun – there’s a comprehensive second-hand kit market on the day too. With all budgets and interests catered for, it’s an event not to be missed for those who want to complete, paint and display miniatures and models.

Once perceived as a hobby for older, retired types, it’s undergoing a huge resurgence with thousands of young enthusiasts who enjoy the likes of Warhammer and Dungeons and Dragons breathing new life into model clubs. Even if you’ve never been club member, and don’t want to be, you’ll find inspiration, conversation and dedication by the bucket-load at the show.

Competition element

As well as the retail opportunities and the show itself, the event hosts a competition for enthusiasts. In 2024 nearly 200 models were entered. The competition includes classes to encompass all interests: Military and civilian aircraft, ships and vehicles; science fiction and real space ships; fantasy and historical figures of all sizes.

Alan Paul, the Secretary of IPMS Wakefield and member of White Rose GMP said: “The hobby, or craft, of model making has to develop and change. Specifically, younger miniaturists are less and less interested in historical and military subjects and more and more interested in current and future, or fantastical subjects. We hope to provide a show that will cater to all generations of model makers, of all interests. We hope some non-model makers will come and enjoy the miniatures on display too.”

Where and when

The doors open for the Leeds Open Scale Model Show and Competition at 10am till 4.30 pm on Sunday, March 9, at New Dock Hall, Royal Armouries, Leeds, LS10 1LT. Tickets cost £6 per head.

Find out more here and follow the host clubs’ pages here

· Leeds Open Scale Model Show

· IPMS Wakefield & District

· White Rose Guild of Miniature Painters