Anxious about meeting my step grandson for the first time.

Obviously don’t overwhelm him, but I think whilst he’s there he should be “at least as interesting” to you as the baby.

Depending on the relationship you have with your daughter and his father (and how they feel about it), I’d see if he wanted to help cook, show you the garden, his books, his toys...

Ask about the baby “through him” - “can the baby hold your finger?” “Is he very noisy” things like that.
As others have said, he is a “big brother” now.

Regarding gifts, find out what sort of thing he likes. I, personally would take a “hello” gift but not a wildly extravagant one. No doubt you will take something for the baby as well!

How about sending a little present now? Find out what he's into (or Google 'gifts for 8yo boys'). Put in a little note to say how pleased that baby will have a big brother like him. (Amazon let you put in a note for no charge if it's a gift)
Maybe another complementary little toy in 4 or 6 weeks if the first one goes down well. If it doesn't, try a different toy.
Good luck. When you meet, if he's quiet, no worries, hang in there.

Thanks ladies for your generous tips - all very helpful.
I've sent little gifts for the last 2 Christmases and birthdays but so far he has been too shy to appear on zoom calls. Hopefully that will lessen with time and familiarity.
All help very much appreciated!

I think the mere fact that you are thinking about this and want a relationship with him is a big start. I loved playing Lego with my grandson. As others have said, find out something he likes or is interested in and go with that.
I find his own mother’s attitude appalling. I accept the fact that she may be hurt about this new relationship but to tell her own son that no one will be interested in him is really awful.
Don’t take sides and don’t say anything bad about his mum. Good luck

Just be friendly and show an interest in him, but don't try to establish 'a positive relationship from the get-go.' Let him come to you; children know when people are genuinely interested in them.

If you bought something for him I would go for small and ‘wacky’ rather than a present. That way you would not be treading on toes from any other side!

Such exciting times flixukay. I can't really give you any useful suggestions that you won't have already thought of. Find out his interests and take him things from the UK which are not easily available there. My DGS is that same age, in NZ, and he loves books and comics which they don't have there. thephoenixcomic.co.uk/
He also loves lego.
Treat him like the big brother he is .
Expect to like him, after all your DD fell for his dad so he may be a chip off the old block, and don't give up if he is reluctant at first.
Remember you are the adult, and the mature adult at that, but neither of you are centre stage with the new arrival.
I hope you get to go soon and it works out well.
His Majesty the Baby: My DM used to sing this to my DC
www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0MGtY6uN5E

Could you maybe find out in advance about what he enjoys. Then take a special gift to help break the ice and let him know you’ve chosen it specially for him.

Do you contact him through Skype at the moment? If you start small that way and gradually build up conversation, he won't be a stranger when you meet him. Does your dd share any of his achievements? That would be something to talk about and praise.

Hopefully your daughter will big you up beforehand and tell the little boy how much you are looking forward to meeting your two lovely grandchildren.
Maybe find out what he’s interested in and start sending little gifts or messages related to dinosaurs, basketball or whatever he’s in to.
Do you Skype or zoom? This could be good for establishing a relationship before baby comes along.
Continue to make him feel an important part of your life after the new baby arrives.
Lots to look forward to for you all. Hope restrictions are lifted soon and you’ll be winging your way to beautiful sunny Queensland ??

Can you say to him something along the lines that you'd like to go for a walk but don't know your way around. Could he go with you to make sure you don't get lost?