London Events in May: Explore 50 Top Things To Do
In May, you can also immerse yourself in London’s rich history by visiting historic sites like the Churchill War Rooms, explore the city’s eclectic street art scene in neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Camden, go shopping on famous streets like Oxford Street or Carnaby Street, or enjoy panoramic views of the city from iconic landmarks such as the Shard or the London Eye. And don’t forget to experience the city’s diverse nightlife with its bars, clubs, and theaters offering entertainment for all tastes!
London typically hosts a variety of exciting exhibitions across its many museums and galleries. You might find exhibitions featuring contemporary art at the Tate Modern, historical artifacts at the British Museum, or immersive experiences at venues like the Victoria and Albert Museum. Keep an eye out for special events and temporary exhibitions, as London’s cultural scene is always buzzing with new and innovative displays. Be sure to check the websites of specific museums and galleries for their current exhibitions during your visit.
London in May is vibrant with festivals celebrating various aspects of culture, music, and food. Here are a few notable ones:
Flower Shows, Garden Festivals and Spring Bloom Highlights
1. Chelsea Flower Show
About: Held annually by the Royal Horticultural Society, this prestigious flower show in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea showcases stunning garden designs and floral displays.
Dates: 19–23 May 2026
Tickets: £75–£120
Location: Royal Hospital Chelsea – Nearest Tube: Sloane Square
2. Chelsea Flower Fringe
About: Running alongside the Chelsea Flower Show, this citywide celebration features community gardens, pop-up floral installations, workshops and creative displays organised by local groups and businesses.
Dates: 16–31 May 2026
Tickets: £0–£35
Location: Various locations across London
3. Regent’s Park Rose Gardens into May Bloom
About: London’s historic Victorian rose gardens enter full bloom in May, with hundreds of varieties showcasing seasonal colours and fragrances. The park pathways are ideal for walking and photography, and guided horticultural talks sometimes accompany peak bloom days.
Dates: Throughout May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: Regent’s Park – Nearest Tube: Regent’s Park
4. Kew Gardens Spring Display
About: A world-class horticultural experience where spring bulbs and rare species are on display. Highlights include themed trail walks, glasshouse exhibitions, and new seasonal installations in the arboretum and landscape gardens.
Dates: Throughout May 2026
Tickets: £20–£27
Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Nearest Rail: Kew Gardens
Food and Drink Festivals Across London
5. London Wine Week:
About: Wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings, masterclasses, and special events across the city during this week-long celebration of wine.
Dates: 11–17 May 2026
Tickets: £20 festival pass
Location: Various venues including Soho, Covent Garden and Shoreditch
6. Foodies Festival:
About: Food lovers can enjoy a feast for the senses at Foodies Festival, where they can sample delicious dishes, watch cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, and participate in culinary workshops.
Dates: 23–25 May 2026
Tickets: £20–£40
Location: Syon Park – Nearest Rail: Syon Lane / Brentford
7. The London Coffee Festival
About: One of Europe’s largest coffee events bringing together baristas, roasters and coffee enthusiasts for tastings, competitions, brewing demonstrations and industry talks.
Dates: 14–17 May 2026
Tickets: £39.90–£63
Location: The Truman Brewery, Brick Lane – Nearest Overground: Shoreditch High Street
8. Pub in the Park
About: Gunnersbury Park hosts this outdoor culinary and lifestyle event where some of the UK’s best gastropubs run food stalls alongside live music and family activities. Ticket tiers typically include standard park entry, live cooking demos, and VIP packages with seating.
Dates: 30 May – 1 June 2026
Tickets: £30–£85
Location: Gunnersbury Park – Nearest Tube: Acton Town
9. Hot Sauce Society Festival
About: London’s largest hot sauce celebration, where more than 60 artisanal hot sauce makers gather to sample spicy flavours, compete in challenges, and offer workshops. Attendees can taste sauces, discover new products, and talk with creators about their craft. A visit for food lovers who like heat and discovery.
Dates: 9–10 May 2026
Tickets: £5+
Location: Copeland Park, Peckham – Nearest Overground: Peckham Rye
10. South Bank Food Market
About: The South Bank Food Market runs each weekend with global cuisine stalls, artisan producers, and seasonal outdoor dining by the river Thames. Street food from around the world, sweet treats, and craft drinks make it a must-visit for casual and foodie travellers.
Dates: 2–3 May, 9–10 May, 16–17 May, 23–25 May, 30–31 May 2026
Tickets: Free entry
Location: Southbank Centre – Nearest Tube: Waterloo
Music Festivals, Concerts and Live Performances
11. Field Day Festival
About: Field Day is a major electronic and alternative music festival drawing international DJs and experimental artists. The event includes multiple outdoor stages, high-end sound production, curated food traders, and art installations.
Date: 23 May 2026
Tickets: £60–£80
Location: Brockwell Park – Nearest Tube: Brixton
12. GALA Festival
About: A three-day independent festival focused on house, disco, and underground electronic music. Known for its intimate layout and community-driven atmosphere, it showcases carefully curated line-ups rather than mainstream headliners. The extended bank holiday format allows relaxed daytime dancing and evening headline sets.
Dates: 22–24 May 2026
Tickets: £40–£70
Location: Peckham Rye Park – Nearest Overground: Peckham Rye
13. Cross The Tracks Festival
About: This one-day festival focuses on soul, jazz, funk, R&B, and hip-hop. Beyond music, it features panel talks, food markets, vinyl vendors, and creative workshops. It blends live bands with DJ sets, creating a balanced mix of performance styles.
Date: 24 May 2026
Tickets: £40–£70
Location: Brockwell Park – Nearest Tube: Brixton
14. City Splash
About: City Splash celebrates Caribbean and African culture through reggae, dancehall, afrobeat, and dub performances. Food vendors specialise in Caribbean cuisine, and the festival atmosphere is vibrant and community focused. It has grown significantly in scale over recent years.
Date: 25 May 2026
Tickets: £30–£60
Location: Brockwell Park – Nearest Tube: Brixton
15. Mighty Hoopla
About: A large pop-focused festival known for colourful staging, nostalgic headliners, and inclusive programming. The event blends chart music, drag performances, dance acts, and themed party zones. It attracts a diverse crowd and has become a staple of London’s late-May festival calendar.
Dates: 30–31 May 2026
Tickets: £60–£110
Location: Brockwell Park – Nearest Tube: Brixton
16. A Night at the Opera by Candlelight
About: An intimate classical music concert where opera favourites such as Nessun Dorma and works by Mozart, Puccini and Verdi are performed by professional singers and musicians in a candlelit historic church setting.
Dates: Selected dates in May 2026
Tickets: £30–£45
Location: St Mary Le Strand Church – Nearest Tube: Temple
17. DesertFest London
About: DesertFest is a multi-venue heavy music festival centred around Camden’s established live music circuit. It features stoner rock, doom metal, and psychedelic acts from international and UK scenes. Attendees move between venues across the district with a single festival pass.
Dates: 15–17 May 2026
Tickets: £85–£120
Location: Camden Town venues – Nearest Tube: Camden Town
18. La Linea – The London Latin Music Festival
About: London’s long-running Latin music festival presents artists from across South America, Spain, and the Caribbean. Events range from seated concerts to dance nights and cultural showcases. Venues vary from theatres to clubs across the capital.
Dates: 20 April – 6 May 2026
Tickets: £15–£50
Location: Various venues including Barbican and Kings Place
19. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – Film Music Gala
About: The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs iconic film scores in a grand gala format. The programme typically includes selections from major cinematic franchises and contemporary blockbusters.
Date: 30 May 2026
Tickets: £60–£120
Location: Royal Albert Hall – Nearest Tube: South Kensington
20. Highways Festival
About: Highways Festival brings country and Americana music to London with headline and emerging artists performing across three nights. Hosted at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, the event focuses on roots, folk, and contemporary country soundscapes.
Dates: 15–17 May 2026
Tickets: £70–£150
Location: Royal Albert Hall – Nearest Tube: South Kensington
21. Friday Lunchtime Concerts with LSO Discovery
About: These short classical music concerts by the London Symphony Orchestra’s discovery series take place during weekday lunch hours. Offering a mix of classical repertoire and accessible programming, they are perfect for culture lovers looking for a free midday arts experience.
Dates: 8, 15, 22, 29 May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: St Luke’s, Old Street – Nearest Tube: Barbican
22. London Symphony Orchestra Open Air Concert
About: An annual free outdoor classical music concert staged in Trafalgar Square, featuring the London Symphony Orchestra performing accessible repertoire and popular orchestral works. The event aims to introduce classical music to wider audiences in an informal, open-air setting.
Date: 23 May 2026 (TBC)
Tickets: Free
Location: Trafalgar Square – Nearest Tube: Charing Cross
Arts, Crafts and Cultural Festivals to Explore
23. London Craft Week:
About: Showcasing exceptional craftsmanship from around the world, London Craft Week features exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations across the city, highlighting traditional and contemporary crafts.
Dates: 11–17 May 2026
Tickets: £0–£30
Location: Various venues across London
24. London International Festival of Theatre (LIFT):
About: LIFT presents groundbreaking performances from international artists, ranging from theater and dance to multimedia installations, offering unique and immersive experiences.
Dates: To be announced
Tickets: £15–£45
Location: Various venues across London
25. IWA Canalway Cavalcade
About: Organised by the Inland Waterways Association, this historic waterway festival features decorated narrowboats, boat parades, waterside craft stalls, and live music. Family-friendly workshops and food stalls line the canals of Little Venice.
Dates: 2–4 May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: Little Venice – Nearest Tube: Warwick Avenue
26. Urban Village Fete
About: A local community event celebrating creativity and neighbourhood culture on the Greenwich Peninsula. Live DJs, artisan food stalls, craft workshops, pop-up art, and discussion panels bring together residents and visitors. The event’s grassroots and neighbourhood identity makes it especially attractive for cultural explorers.
Date: 16 May 2026
Tickets: £10–£30
Location: Greenwich Peninsula – Nearest Tube: North Greenwich
27. Covent Garden May Fayre & Puppet Festival
About: One of Europe’s longest-established puppet celebrations, this street festival draws families and culture seekers with classic puppet theatre, Punch & Judy shows, roving performers, and craft stalls.
Date: 10 May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: Covent Garden Piazza – Nearest Tube: Covent Garden
28. Dulwich Festival
About: Dulwich Festival is a well-established arts and cultural celebration held across Dulwich Village, East Dulwich, and West Dulwich. The programme typically includes classical concerts, jazz performances, art exhibitions, open studio trails, guided walks, literature talks, and family workshops.
Dates: 8–17 May 2026
Tickets: £0–£35
Location: Various venues across Dulwich
29. London May Fair at St James’s
About: The London May Fair at St James’s revives the historic 17th-century May Fair tradition with modern performances, live music, artisan market stalls, and heritage displays. Set around St James’s Square, the event celebrates local history while incorporating contemporary entertainment and street food vendors.
Date: 9 May 2026 (TBC)
Tickets: Free
Location: St James’s Square – Nearest Tube: Green Park
30. London Antiquarian Book Fair
About: The Hackney Half Marathon is one of London’s most popular closed-road running events, attracting over 20,000 runners each year. The 13.1-mile route takes participants through vibrant East London neighbourhoods including Hackney Wick and Homerton, finishing at Hackney Marshes where a large festival village awaits.
Dates: 21–23 May 2026 (TBC)
Tickets: £20–£30
Location: Chelsea Old Town Hall – Nearest Tube: Sloane Square
Theatre, Film and Entertainment Events in London
31. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in Concert
About: At Royal Albert Hall, a full orchestra performs Howard Shore’s Academy Award-winning score live alongside a high-definition screening of the film. The immersive experience attracts both film and classical music audiences.
Dates: 3–10 May 2026
Tickets: £45–£120
Location: Royal Albert Hall
32. Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Spring Season
About: Hosted within Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, the season launches in May with large-scale productions staged under the open sky. The venue is known for immersive staging and atmospheric evening performances.
Dates: 2 May – 6 June 2026
Tickets: £20–£60
Location: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
33. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
About: A behind the scenes experience at the actual studios where the Harry Potter films were made. Visitors can walk through original sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and Platform 9¾.
Tickets: £53 adults
Location: Leavesden, Watford
34. Eurovision Grande Finale Screening & Cabaret Show
About: Celebrate Eurovision with a live cabaret, big screen finales, and themed performances featuring DJs and vocalists. A festive and interactive way to enjoy the Eurovision Grand Final with food and drinks available. Perfect for fans of the contest looking for a party atmosphere.
Date: 16 May 2026
Tickets: £55–£78
Location: The Phoenix Arts Club, Soho
Art Exhibitions and Immersive Creative Experiences
35. Affordable Art Fair – Hampstead
About: This seasonal contemporary art fair brings over 100 international galleries and independent artists to London’s north side near Hampstead Heath. Unlike traditional fairs, this one features art at accessible price points to encourage new collectors. Curated talks, guided tours, and interactive displays help demystify contemporary art for first-time buyers.
Dates: 6–10 May 2026
Tickets: £15+
Location: Hampstead Heath
36. FRAMELESS Immersive Art Experience
About: A large scale immersive digital art gallery where famous artworks by Monet, Van Gogh, Cézanne and other artists are projected across vast gallery spaces with music and motion graphics.
Dates: Throughout May 2026
Tickets: £25–£35
Location: Marble Arch
37. Grand Designs Live
About: Based on the popular TV programme, this multi-day exhibition features interactive design displays, expert talks, and hands-on home improvement workshops. From smart home innovation to interior styling and exterior landscaping solutions, it serves homeowners and industry professionals alike.
Dates: 1–4 May 2026
Tickets: £25–£55
Location: ExCeL London
38. Photo London
About: Photo London is an international photography fair showcasing a diverse range of works by influential photographers and galleries. From vintage prints to contemporary pieces, visitors can view, purchase, and learn about photography as an art form. Includes talks and special exhibitions across Olympia.
Dates: 13–17 May 2026
Tickets: £32
Location: Olympia London
Major Sporting Events to Catch in London This May
39. Multiple Premier League Matches
About: The final matchweek of the Premier League traditionally takes place in late May. London clubs such as West Ham, Fulham, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal may host decisive fixtures affecting title races or relegation battles.
Date: 24 May 2026
Tickets: £40–£150
Location: Various stadiums across London
40. World Team Table Tennis Championships
About: The 2026 edition of the World Team Table Tennis Championships is a global competition bringing elite teams from around the world to compete. The final stages fall in early May and attract fans of fast-paced international sport. It’s a unique opportunity to see high-level table tennis in London.
Dates: 28 April – 10 May 2026
Tickets: £20–£50
Location: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
41. Emirates FA Cup Final
About: The FA Cup Final is one of England’s most historic and prestigious football matches, showcasing two top teams competing for silverware. The event features fan zones, half-time entertainment, and a celebratory atmosphere around Wembley Stadium.
Date: 16 May 2026
Tickets: £50–£150
Location: Wembley Stadium
42. Women’s FA Cup Final
About: The pinnacle event of the women’s domestic football season in England, the Women’s FA Cup Final features top women’s teams competing at Wembley. Fans enjoy a high-energy match along with fan activities and supporters from across the country. This match draws increased attention each year as women’s football grows in popularity.
Date: 31 May 2026
Tickets: £40–£120
Location: Wembley Stadium
43. Hackney Half Marathon
About: The Hackney Half Marathon is one of London’s most popular closed-road running events, attracting over 20,000 runners each year. The 13.1-mile route takes participants through vibrant East London neighbourhoods including Hackney Wick and Homerton, finishing at Hackney Marshes where a large festival village awaits.
Dates: 16–17 May 2026
Tickets: £62–£70
Location: Hackney Marshes
Seasonal Outdoor Attractions and Relaxing May Activities
44. Polygon Live LDN
About: A cutting edge spatial audio festival where music is experienced in immersive 3D sound environments. Performances take place in specially designed audio installations that surround the audience with multi directional sound.
Date: 25 May 2026
Tickets: £40–£80
Location: Crystal Palace Park
45. Hot Air Balloon Regatta
About: A seasonal ballooning event over Battersea Park where colourful hot air balloons take flight early morning (weather permitting). Spectators gather on open lawns to watch launches, take photos, and enjoy park picnics. This event blends serene outdoor ambience with unique visual appeal for families and photographers.
Date: 10 May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: Battersea Park
46. Pub Garden Seasonal Launch Weekends
About: As temperatures rise, many London pubs reopen or refresh outdoor garden spaces with seasonal menus, craft drinks, and live acoustic music. Areas like Shoreditch, Islington, and Clapham see especially lively pub garden scenes. While no ticket is required, some garden areas operate at a minimum expense.
Dates: Weekends throughout May 2026
Tickets: Free entry
Location: Various pubs across London
Community Celebrations, Local Festivals and City Events
47. Southbank Centre Spring Walks & Talks
About: A series of guided artistic walks, talks, and creative promenade performances along the South Bank riverside. These events explore public art installations, performances, and the cultural landscape of London’s most vibrant arts district. Ideal for arts lovers and curious tourists.
Dates: 3, 10, 17, 24 May 2026
Tickets: £10–£25
Location: Southbank Centre
48. Eid on the Square
About: Eid on the Square is a free public celebration of Eid with live performances, food stalls, family activities, and cultural showcases in Trafalgar Square. It brings together communities for a festive day marking the end of Ramadan, with entertainment and traditional performances.
Date: 30 May 2026
Tickets: Free
Location: Trafalgar Square
Markets, Fairs and Special Interest Events
49. Italian Car Day
About: A popular automotive event celebrating Italian car design and engineering. Visitors can see classic and modern Italian vehicles including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Alfa Romeo, along with demonstrations, club displays and food stalls.
Date: 2 May 2026
Tickets: £15–£25
Location: Brooklands Museum
50. Mind Body Spirit Festival
About: Held at Olympia London, this wellness festival features yoga workshops, meditation sessions, holistic therapy stalls, and keynote speakers. It attracts health practitioners and individuals interested in wellbeing practices.
Dates: 22–25 May 2026
Tickets: £15–£40
Location: Olympia London
These are just a few highlights, but there are always more festivals and events happening throughout London in May, catering to a wide range of interests, anything specific you want please ask the staff at London Backpackers youth hostel, who will be sure to assist you.
