With two bank holidays on the horizon and sunshine warming the flourishing and buzzing streets of London, there’s no better time to visit the capital 💂
From music and crafts to family events and festivals, there is something for everyone in London this May. Nature, of course, is on display around every corner and a jam-packed Spring calendar invites you to see it in full bloom. Read on to discover the endless fun things to do in London in May 2026!
1. Spring into the Bank Holidays
4th & 25th May 2026
We’re spoilt for long weekends this month! With the May Day bank holiday on the 4th and the Spring Bank holiday on the 25th, there’s no better time to squeeze in a quick break to the Big Smoke. May Day is the workers’ holiday, so why not soak up some Vitamin D in one of London’s many beautiful parks?
Battersea Park, Regent’s Park, and Greenwich Park are all fantastic choices! Plus, if you’re feeling energetic, you could even rent a bicycle and explore the city on two wheels. By the end of May, we’re filled with Spring hope – mostly for sunshine. Its arrival marks the perfect opportunity to explore London’s many lush parks.
2. Pub in the Park
14th – 17th May 2026
Tuck into mouth-watering Michelin-star dishes and discover the hottest new eateries showcasing delicious pub classics and innovative creations. Then wash it down with a pint of craft beer, a refreshing cider or a delightful mocktail. Pub in the Park offers something for everyone.
Sing along to your favourite anthems with live music performances from Scouting for Girls and Busted or browse the artisan market for unique crafts and gifts. It’s perfect for a day out in June, especially if you’re bringing the family!
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3. Star Wars Exhibition at Madame Tussauds
Ongoing
Where better to visit on ‘May the 4th’ than the out-of-this-world Star Wars Exhibition at Madame Tussauds? This immersive experience features extraordinarily lifelike wax figures of heroes and villains from Star Wars Episodes I-IX. Created in close collaboration with Disney and Lucasfilm, you’ll explore a galaxy of locations under one roof.
Master Yoda awaits you in his remote world of swamps and forests on Dagobah. You’ll also visit Jabba’s Throne Room and the epic flight deck of the Millennium Falcon, where Chewbacca is portrayed in all his hairy glory. May the 4th be with you!
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4. Dulwich Festival
8th – 17th May 2026
10 days of music, dance, literature, art, walks, talks, performances and fairs unfold in Dulwich for a unique multi-venue urban festival. From a Teddy Bear’s Picnic at the Village Orchard to a choral singing workshop, this London festival programme has something to suit all ages.
Talks and discussions cover everything from cookery to architecture and the arts are represented in all formats from theatre to music and visuals. Family-friendly fairs also take place on the weekends, featuring stalls by independent traders and fringe entertainment.
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5. May Fayre and Puppet Festival, Covent Garden
10th May 2026
This free, family-friendly event is held annually on the anniversary of the first recorded sighting of Mr Punch. First spotted without Judy in Covent Garden by diarist Samuel Pepys in 1662, Punch is still the star of the show today. The day kicks off with a grand procession, led by a brass band. Afterwards, a special service will be held in St Paul’s Church with Mr Punch in the pulpit.
Then, in the church gardens, Puppeteers from all over the country and abroad gather to perform. There will also be stalls, workshops, live music and maypole dancing. Good, wholesome and free family fun!
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6. London Craft Week
11th – 17th May 2026
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Wherever you find yourself in the city this May, be sure to get in on some of the London Craft Week action. Taking place in various venues across the city, more than 700 makers will present their outstanding craftsmanship. A festival map will guide you to hidden workshops, independent makers and heritage craftspeople.
Peek inside jewel-like shops, great luxury houses, department stores, national museums and contemporary galleries. Discover famous artists, designers and independent talent as you embrace the diversity of crafts in the capital.
7. The London Coffee Festival
14th – 17th May 2025
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Calling all coffee lovers! If you’re all about that perfect brew, you absolutely have to check out the London Coffee Festival this May! It’s not just your regular coffee stop; it’s a whole weekend dedicated to everything coffee (and decaf too!). Taking over the cool Truman Brewery in Shoreditch from the 14th to the 17th, the London Coffee Festival atmosphere is buzzing with passion and creativity for the coffee world. You’re sure to leave feeling totally energised (and maybe a little caffeinated!).
But it’s not just about tasting delicious coffee! You can also catch live demos, join workshops and even enjoy some live music. It’s a fantastic chance to learn all about coffee, from the bean to your cup.
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8. Belgravia in Bloom
18th – 24th May 2026
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With a nod to a summer of epic sporting events ahead, Floral Fun and Games is the theme for this year’s Belgravia in Bloom. This free floral festival takes place across Belgravia. Transforming the neighbourhood into a vibrant canvas of floral installations and displays, this London festival is a floral paradise where nature thrives across the neighbourhood of Belgravia.
Displays are created by Belgravia’s famous florists, while local shops, restaurants and bars embrace botanicals with themed menus and offers. Expect breathtaking displays of blooms and Instagrammable backdrops at every turn.
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9. RHS Chelsea Flower Show
19th – 23rd May 2026
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show promises amazing garden designs, gorgeous floral displays and exclusive shopping. Eight show gardens and seven sanctuary gardens will showcase planting schemes and cutting-edge designs. Beautiful floral displays offer the perfect opportunity to get lost in nature, with inspiring, take-home ideas at every turn.
The All About Plants gardens will host everything from an edible skate park, plants for gut health and even a tropical forest. Balcony and Container garden displays provide inspiration for small spaces. The No Adults Allowed Garden puts kids in the driving seat, allowing them to enjoy a garden of fun and exploration.
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10. Field Day 2026
23rd May 2026
Field Day is back in 2025 and moving to a fantastic new location: the lovely Brockwell Park in Brixton, London! Mark your calendars for May 23rd, because Field Day is planning a day jam-packed with incredible music, the best vibes and a whole lot of fun in the sun.
The lineup this year is seriously stacked with talent, featuring amazing artists from the worlds of house and techno to some of the hottest rising stars. Grooving to the sounds of big names like Peggy Gou, Jayda G, Girls Don’t Sync, Jungle and Dixon, alongside tons of other brilliant acts across multiple stages. No matter if you’re into deep house, techno beats, drum and bass rhythms, or anything in between, you’re sure to find your perfect groove at Field Day.
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11. MCM Comic Con
22nd – 24th May 2026
A three-day celebration of all things pop culture, MCM London brings together the worlds of anime, TV and film under one roof. Artists, writers and actors will be at signing tables at every turn, as well as hosting panels, talks, screenings and performances. Cosplay is an integral part of the event, where children and adults alike dress up to pay homage to their favourite characters.
Get your hands on consoles, retro machines, board games and RPGs – all available and free to play! Plus, an exhibition area will be bursting with unique shopping stalls.
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12. Foodies Festival Syon Park
23rd – 25th May 2026
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Get ready to treat your taste buds because Foodies Festival is making a delicious stop in London this May! Taking place at Syon Park from the 23rd to the 25th May, this is the perfect way to spend a sunny Bank Holiday weekend. You can watch talented chefs, including MasterChef champions and Michelin-starred cooks, whip up their signature dishes live in the Chefs Theatre, picking up handy tips and tricks along the way.
But it’s not just about watching; there’s plenty to get involved in! You can dive into tasting sessions, explore new flavours in the Tasting Theatre, and even learn to make show-stopping cakes in the Cake and Bake Theatre. For the little ones, there’s a Kids Cookery Theatre to spark their culinary creativity. And when you need a break from all the deliciousness, you can enjoy live music performances from headliners like Scouting for Girls and ‘Boyzlife’.
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13. Men’s FA Cup Final
16th May 2026
May 16th 2026 marks a special day on the UK’s men’s sporting calendar – the FA Cup Final! This historic cup competition, dating back to 1871, sees teams from all levels of English football battle it out for the coveted trophy.
Taking place at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London, the FA Cup Final is known for its electric atmosphere, roaring crowds and the chance to witness two teams vying for ultimate glory. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a particular team or simply enjoy the excitement of live sport, the FA Cup Final is an experience not to be missed.
Top tip: Tickets for the final tend to sell out quickly, so if you’re interested in attending, be sure to check the official FA website for ticket information and on-sale dates. You could also try watching it at a nearby pub with fellow football fans – the atmosphere is sure to be buzzing!
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14. Women’s FA Cup Final
31st May 2026
Without a doubt, a brilliant game of football really brings everyone together. The Women’s FA Cup was founded back in 1970 and has been held annually ever since. It sees hundreds of teams compete to take home the highly sought-after trophy. Unless you’ve got tickets to see the final at Wembley Stadium on 31st May, you’re likely looking for a way to watch the game with loved ones.
Head to BOXPARK Wembley where this renowned venue promises a packed-out viewing party you won’t want to miss. Who are you placing your bets on this year?
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15. Cross the Tracks 2026
24th May 2026
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Get ready for a fantastic day of soulful vibes at Cross the Tracks 2026! This beloved jazz, funk and soul festival is returning to Brockwell Park in Brixton on Sunday 24th May, promising a laid-back and joyful atmosphere perfect for a sunny May afternoon.
It’s not just about the incredible music! While the lineup is always top-notch, Cross the Tracks promises a mix of established legends and exciting new talents in the scene. With a real community feel and focus on good food and independent traders, you can expect to find over 70 of London’s hottest street food vendors alongside a craft beer fair. Plus, there’s an artisan market where you can browse unique handmade jewellery, art and clothing. Cross the Tracks is shaping up to be a real highlight of London’s May events calendar – book your tickets today!
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16. City Splash
25th May 2026
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Hear the Sounds of the city at this music festival celebrating the impact of Caribbean and African culture in the UK and beyond. An impressive lineup guides listeners through the heritage of Roots, Dub and Dancehall to the birth of Jungle and Garage. But City Roots isn’t a nostalgia festival.
This celebration of Black music, food, dance and style also showcases the most up-and-coming talent today. Headliners for 2026 include Beres Hammond, Aidonia, Elephant Man and Gyptian, who come together to pay homage to the pioneering sounds that raised generations.
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17. The Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta
Don’t miss a chance to witness the magic of the Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta®! Up to fifty colourful balloons will take flight across central London, raising money for a worthy cause. The standby dates have not yet been confirmed, but have been in May in past years. Conditions will need to be perfect on the day to allow the event to take place. Keep your fingers crossed this year, as it’s been a while since the incredible spectacle went ahead!
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