Over the coming months, more details will be revealed, but we’ve already started sharing what’s in store, including a series of practical masterclasses and a dedicated training day led by Lisa Paasche, focused on “Leading Better: The Human Skills Behind High-Performing Teams.”
As the countdown continues, it’s clear that HiveMCR 2026 is shaping up to be the most ambitious edition yet.
Two Days, One City, Countless Takeaways
HiveMCR has traditionally been a one-day conference, but for 2026 it’s evolving into a two-day experience that blends learning, networking and Manchester’s unmistakable cultural energy.
Day one will focus on hands-on learning, with a programme of training masterclasses hosted at Manchester Metropolitan University. These sessions are designed to be practical and immediately useful, covering SEO, content and leadership skills that attendees can take straight back to their teams.
That evening, the event spills out into the city with an opening social at an iconic Manchester venue. The night will feature panel discussions from well-known names in the local SEO scene, alongside music, drinks and a relaxed atmosphere to kick things off properly.
The Main Event: HiveMCR on 22nd May 2026
The following day sees HiveMCR return to New Century Hall for the main conference. A venue steeped in Manchester’s cultural history, it provides the backdrop for a full day of talks and panels spanning the full breadth of organic search.
Attendees can expect sessions covering everything from technical SEO and AI-driven search to UX, CRO and content strategy, all delivered by speakers who are actively shaping the industry.
What sets HiveMCR apart, though, is the atmosphere. Alongside the high-quality content, the event leans into a more festival-style format, with entertainment, music and even comedy woven throughout the day to keep things fresh and engaging.
The day wraps up with the now famous HiveMCR after-party, offering even more opportunities to connect, followed by live music to close the event in true Mancunian style.
A Standout Line-Up Across Both Days
HiveMCR 2026 brings together an unrivalled group of speakers and contributors across training, panels and main stage talks.
Training masterclasses delivered by:
Gerry White, Charlie Whitworth, Lisa Paasche, Shannon McGuirk, Kyle Rushton McGregor and Yagmur Simsek.
Thursday evening panels and talks feature:
Dawn Anderson, Ryan White, Harrison Lemon, Nikki Halliwell and Jessica Atkinson.
Main conference speakers and panellists include:
Dawn Anderson, Alex Moss, Jono Alderson, Arnout Hellemans, Itamar Blauer, Carrie Rose, Gianluca Fiorelli, Ashley Liddell, Shannon McGuirk, Mark Williams-Cook, Stephen Kenwright, Sophie Brannon and Lisa Paasche.
Further announcements are also still to come...
Why HiveMCR Resonates With the SEO Community
HiveMCR has built a reputation for being more than just another conference. It’s an event that combines deep technical expertise with a strong sense of community and openness, reflecting Manchester’s position as the undisputed capital of SEO.
Whether you work in technical SEO, content, UX, CRO, AI or wider digital marketing, HiveMCR offers a chance to learn from industry leaders while connecting with peers in a genuinely welcoming environment.
It’s also a reminder that professional events don’t have to be dry; learning, networking and having a good time don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Early Tickets Now Available
Early bird tickets for HiveMCR 2026 are currently available but won’t be around for long. Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to secure their place before the current ticket window closes at the end of the month.
Tickets and further details can be found by searching for HiveMCR or visiting www.hive-mcr.co.uk.
More updates are on the way soon, including announcements around DJs, live music and comedy, adding even more spice to what’s already set to be a standout event on the global SEO calendar.
