Spring into adventure this May ☀️
With the summer season right around the corner, May is packed with exciting events and activities waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone coming up this month. So, pack your bags, grab your raincoat (just in case!), and get ready to discover 17 incredible things to do in the UK in May 2024!
1. May Morning Oxford
1st May 2024
May Morning is one of Oxford’s most famous annual events. With thousands of locals and tourists crowding the streets at 6am to listen to a Latin hymn sung from the top of Magdalen College tower, this gathering is an experience like no other.
But the festivities don’t end there! Various May Day traditions take place across the city throughout the day, including Maypole dancing in the streets, a visit from Jack-in-the-Green and a performance of Morris Dancers outside the Ashmolean Museum. The famous Cotswold Morris is the native dance of Oxfordshire, so this is surely the best place to witness it!
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2. Bank Holi-Mays!
With 2 bank holidays coming up this month, 6th and 27th May, there are plenty of things to do all over the UK. From romantic getaways for you and your beau to family-friendly escapes in the countryside and non-stop city breaks. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to get your plans in quick – we’re certain everyone will be hitting the roads this May!
3. Cheltenham Jazz Festival
1st – 6th May 2024
Calling all jazz fans! From the 1st to the 6th May 2024, the vibrant town of Cheltenham will transform into a musical haven. Prepared to get jazzed up at the annual Cheltenham Jazz Festival!
With a stellar lineup of international stars, legendary jazz icons, and exciting new talents, this lively music festival offers something for everyone. Soak up the lively atmosphere and catch captivating performances in Cheltenham’s diverse venues – from intimate jazz clubs to grand concert halls.
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4. Celebrate Star Wars Day at the Madame Tussauds London
4th May 2024
Collaborating with Disney and Lucasfilm, Madame Tussauds’ immersive Star Wars exhibit is the perfect way to experience Star Wars Day in London. With life-like wax figures of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn’s epic dual with Darth Maul, Luke Skywalker’s final confrontation with Darth Vader and much more, you’ll be sure to find all your favourite Jedi heroes and villains at Madame Tussauds this May.
Discover the iconic flight deck of the Millennium Falcon and even explore Jabba the Hutt’s menacing Throne Room as you meet all the legendary characters of the Star Wars franchise. May the Fourth be with you!
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5. Brighton Festival
4th – 26th May 2024
If you’re a lover of the arts, then Brighton Festival is sure to pique your fancy this May. Taking place in the vibrant and culturally diverse southern city, expect an array of gripping performances and events throughout the month.
Discover everything from theatre and dance to circus, classical music, intriguing debates and live book clubs. With all that to come, it’s no wonder Brighton Festival is the southeast’s biggest and most talked-about arts festival. Whenever you choose to visit, you’d best take your loved ones as there’s something for everyone to do – even the kids!
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6. Women’s FA Cup Final
12th May 2024
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 May 12th, 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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7. Grab a drink at Lab 22 Cardiff this World Cocktail Day
13th May 2024
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Feeling fancy? Why not celebrate World Cocktail Day in style at Lab 22 Cardiff this May? This award-winning bar, currently holding the impressive title of number 17 on the Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, is known for its innovative takes on classic beverages.
With a creative cocktail and mocktail menu inspired by the periodic table, Lab 22 is the perfect place to clink glasses and celebrate World Cocktail Day, whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and unique experience. Just remember to book ahead!
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Want to discover the best of Britain’s cocktail scene? Check out our list of the best cocktail bars in the UK here.
8. Pub in the Park 2024 Marlow
16th-19th May 2024
Calling all foodies and music lovers! Looking for things to do this spring? Look no further than Pub in the Park Marlow. Get ready for a weekend of delicious food, chart-topping tunes, and good vibes at its birthplace in Higginson Park.
Indulge in mouthwatering dishes from top local pubs and eateries. We’re talking fresh seafood, juicy steaks, sizzling BBQ, and delightful veggie options – something to tantalise every taste bud. And to wash it all down? Craft beers, refreshing cocktails, and maybe even a glass of bubbly.
This food festival even boasts a fantastic music lineup featuring chart-topping artists, from Scouting For Girls to Example. Grab your tickets today and get ready for a weekend of delicious food, toe-tapping music, and unforgettable fun!
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9. RHS Chelsea Flower Show
21st May 2024
Spring wouldn’t be complete in the UK without a visit to one of the country’s most iconic flower shows – the RHS Chelsea Flower Show! This prestigious event is a feast for the senses, showcasing the very best in British horticulture and garden design.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a must-visit for your list of things to do this spring. So, grab your hat and sunscreen and prepare to be amazed by the horticultural magic on display!
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10. Birmingham Pride
25th & 26th May 2024
Everybody deserves to be loved, celebrated and accepted for being exactly who they are. So, why not head to the midlands from the 25th to the 26th to attend Birmingham Pride? This inclusive weekend is guaranteed to make you feel you belong – no matter who you are or where you come from. Make sure you gather your entire clan as there’ll be plenty to do all weekend.
From a star-studded lineup of artists on the main stage to a jam-packed dance arena and iconic drag performances, the question is: where will you go first? Get dressed up – Birmingham Pride is the place to go all out!
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11. Blenheim Palace Food Festival
25th & 27th May 2024
This drool-worthy event takes place over 3 days and presents hungry foodies with a chance to indulge like never before. Blenheim Palace Food Festival will be jam-packed with top chefs in the country and thriving local producers. There promises to be a tummy-churning lineup of samples to try, from international cuisine to sweet handmade treats, irresistible bakes and excellent craft beers.
You can even expect a little entertainment throughout the weekend. Without a doubt, this fantastic Oxfordshire festival is one for the entire family.
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12. Bournemouth 7s Festival
24th – 26th May 2024
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Looking for some epic May Bank Holiday fun? Look no further than the Bournemouth 7s Festival. This three-day extravaganza is the perfect way to kick off the summer season with a bang.
Bournemouth 7s Festival is jam-packed with music, laughter and friendly competition. The festival boasts a variety of sporting events, including rugby, netball, hockey, and even dodgeball – so there’s something for everyone to try or cheer on. And let’s not forget the music! Over 100 live acts and DJs will be taking the stage throughout the weekend, ensuring there’s always a beat to groove to.
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13. Men’s FA Cup Final
25th May 2024
May 25th 2024 marks a special day on the UK’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. Wide Awake Festival London
25th May 2024
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Attention all music lovers who crave the unique and unexpected! If you’re looking for something beyond the mainstream music scene this May, head to London’s Wide Awake Festival this Spring Bank Holiday Weekend.
Held in the beautiful Brockwell Park, this independent festival is all about showcasing fresh talent and established favourites across a diverse range of genres. From leftfield indie and pulsating post-punk to electrifying electronica and even some foot-stomping techno. Wide Awake Festival is a melting pot of musical styles that guarantees you’ll discover something new and exciting!
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15. Ford RideLondon-Essex 60
26th May 2024
For keen cyclists ready to push their stamina to the limit, the Ford RideLondon-Essex 60 promises to do just that. This sixty-mile adventure on May 26th sees a convoy of like-minded individuals travel from central London all the way to Essex. Along the way, you’ll pedal past iconic London landmarks, before being greeted with the peaceful sights of the southeast’s finest countryside.
You can still play your part if you don’t fancy getting your cycling gear on! There will be many locations along the 60-mile route where you can watch the race. Why not show your support?
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16. Urdd Eisteddfod
27th May – 1st June 2024
Everyone loves a song and a dance, especially the kids! So, attending Urdd Eisteddfod in Maldwyn, from the 27th May to the 1st June is a must. This is one of Europe’s largest youth touring competitive festivals. It sees over 15,000 under-25s compete in front of thousands to celebrate music, literature, and performing arts.
There’ll be plenty to do all week, with hundreds of exciting stalls to explore. Check out the fun fair, live bands and children’s shows and even spot some famous faces throughout the weekend. Let’s celebrate young people together in this beautiful Welsh market town!
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17. Take That: This Life On Tour at Stadium MK, Milton Keynes
30th May 2024
Calling all 90s kids (and anyone who appreciates a good British anthem)! Dust off your dancing shoes and rediscover your inner fangirl/fanboy because Take That is hitting the road for their This Life On Tour, and they’re making a stop at Stadium MK, Milton Keynes.
Relive the glory days of Back for Good, sing along to classics like Shine and Rule the World, and even hear some new tracks from their upcoming album, This Life. Plus, with special guest Olly Murs joining the party, you’re guaranteed a night of non-stop entertainment.
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