{"id":39437,"date":"2026-04-16T14:23:53","date_gmt":"2026-04-16T13:23:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/?p=39437"},"modified":"2026-04-21T16:58:04","modified_gmt":"2026-04-21T15:58:04","slug":"things-to-do-may","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/destination-guides\/london\/things-to-do-may\/","title":{"rendered":"18 events and things to do in London in May 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

With two bank holidays on the horizon and sunshine warming the flourishing and buzzing streets of London, there\u2019s no better time to visit the capital \ud83d\udc82<\/h2>\n

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!<\/h4>\n
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1. Spring into the Bank Holidays<\/strong><\/h3>\n
4th & 25th May 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"HydeWe\u2019re spoilt for long weekends this month! With the May Day bank holiday on the 4th and the Spring Bank holiday on the 25th, there\u2019s no better time to squeeze in a quick break to the Big Smoke. May Day is the workers\u2019 holiday, so why not soak up some Vitamin D in one of London\u2019s many beautiful parks?<\/h4>\n

Battersea Park, Regent\u2019s Park, and Greenwich Park are all fantastic choices! Plus, if you\u2019re feeling energetic, you could even rent a bicycle and explore the city on two wheels. By the end of May, we\u2019re filled with Spring hope – mostly for sunshine. Its arrival marks the perfect opportunity to explore London\u2019s many lush parks.<\/h4>\n
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2. Pub in the Park<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
14th – 17th May 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"PubTuck into mouthwatering 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.<\/h4>\n

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!<\/h4>\n

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3. Star Wars Exhibition at Madame Tussauds<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ongoing<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"MadameWhere 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\u2019ll explore a galaxy of locations under one roof.<\/h4>\n

Master Yoda awaits you in his remote world of swamps and forests on Dagobah. You\u2019ll 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!<\/h4>\n

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4. Dulwich Festival<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
8th – 17th May 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"Dulwich10 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\u2019s Picnic at the Village Orchard to a choral singing workshop, this London festival programme has something to suit all ages.<\/h4>\n

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.<\/h4>\n

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5. May Fayre and Puppet Festival, Covent Garden<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
10th May 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"PunchThis 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.<\/h4>\n

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!<\/h4>\n

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6. London Craft Week<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
11th – 17th May 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n
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A post shared by London Craft Week (@londoncraftweek)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n