Regional Heats

The Spelling Bee Championship contest will take place in selected Cineworld cinemas across the country (and a small number of independent venues), with the local heats being held in March to May, Semi Finals during May and the Grand Final in London in June.

All school teams and their guests will be welcomed at the venue by The Times Spelling Bee team who will make sure that each event runs efficiently, effectively and enjoyably. On arrival, all teams and their guests will be directed to their places in the venue.

At each live championship event there will be a minimum of five and a maximum of eleven school teams taking part. Each team will consist of three participants and a reserve player.

Each school team must attend the assigned venue on the date and time noted on their letter. Or, to find out which venue to attend, use the dropdown menu below.



Use the pins on the map below to find out more information about each heat, including map, address, public transport information, driving directions and disabled facilities.

If you'd like to know which venue your school should attend, or if you are unsure whether your school's heat is in the morning or afternoon, please call 020 8973 0046.

Attending the Championship heats? Please take note of the following points:

  • Please arrive during the times noted on your letter. Late teams will not be permitted entry.
  • All participants, staff and guests must bring an entrance pass with them.
  • A member of school staff must accompany their pupils (three competitors and reserve) who should be wearing school uniform (if applicable).
  • Up to 10 guests (friends, family and other pupils) may also attend and must bring an entrance pass with them.
  • To reach the organisers on the day use the helpline/emergency telephone number: 020 8973 0046.
  • Please bring copies of The Times Spelling Bee consent forms for attendance/publicity to the event.