59 fun things to do over the May bank holiday weekends in London 2027

1. Save on London’s most popular attractions with a sightseeing pass: Choose from The London Pass, the Go City London Explorer Pass or the Merlin London Attractions Pass to visit iconic London landmarks at a great price. 
2. Visit the historic Tower of London and marvel at the Crown Jewels: Explore the mighty fortress and uncover chilling tales of the Bloody Tower on a guided tour led by the renowned Yeoman Warders. 
3. See spring in bloom at Kew Gardens: Wander themed gardens, step inside the glasshouses or take a treetop walk at the home of the world’s most diverse collection of living plants.  
4. Immerse yourself at the world-famous and original Madame Tussauds: Rub shoulders with recreations of famous figures including musicians, artists, royalty and sporting heroes.  
5. Take a guided tour of St Paul’s Cathedral: Behold the historic relic of London’s skyline and discover over 300 years of history. 
6. Step inside the Unesco-protected Westminster Abbey: Explore the incredible architecture and pay tribute to 10 heroic modern martyrs.  
7. Explore London’s top sights from the river Thames: Hop aboard one of City Cruises' thrilling boat tours for unrivalled views and memorable dining experiences. 
8. See London from new heights: Ride the London Eye or the London Cable Car for sweeping views across the capital. 

Family attractions and activities in London

1. Discover the magic of Hogwarts at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter: Go behind the scenes and uncover original costumes, film props and real-life sets from the film series. 
2. Explore the marine world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium: Be amazed by extraordinary creatures like piranhas, crocodiles and starfish. 
3. Learn how transport helped shaped the capital at the London Transport Museum: Check out groundbreaking designs, including the first-ever Tube map, and the evolution of the city’s iconic vehicles, such as its red buses and black cabs.  
4. Embrace your inner adrenaline junkie at some of the UK's top theme parks: Head to Thorpe Park, LEGOLAND Windsor or Chessington World of Adventures for an action-packed day out. 
5. Take a walk on the wild side at London Zoo: Meet lions, tigers and monkeys (plus much, much more) and learn amazing animal facts at talks and exhibits. 
6. Laugh out loud at Dreamworks Tours: Shrek's Adventure! London: Enter the world of Shrek at this walk-and-ride adventure.  
7. Don’t miss The Paddington Bear Experience: Embark on a wholesome adventure and meet familiar faces as you venture through themed rooms and iconic locations from the Paddington films.

Top tours and experiences in London in May

1. Embark on a guided tour of the British Museum: Uncover the rich history of this world-famous museum and discover priceless artefacts. 
2. Explore London’s top sports stadiums and venues: Go behind the scenes at top football clubs like Arsenal or Chelsea. 
3. Indulge on a food tour of the city: Savour a diverse menu at Borough Market or experience the bold, spice-packed flavours of east London on the Brick Lane Indian Food Tour. 
4. Or enjoy a sumptuous meal accompanied by captivating live opera at Bacchanalia: Head to the beautifully decorated restaurant for a Sunday lunch soundtracked by talented live performers.
5. Tuck into a nostalgic brunch and movie experience at art'otel London Hoxton: Enjoy a two-course brunch and cocktails before settling into the cosy cinema for a screening of The Breakfast Club, complete with unlimited popcorn.
6. Discover the bank holiday line-up at Old Spitalfields Market: Enjoy free family crafts, unique East London walking tours, independent shopping and plenty of food and drink spots across the iconic market.
7. Book a film-themed walking tour: Visit filming locations and learn fascinating trivia from beloved films such as Harry Potter, Paddington and James Bond. 
8. See London’s top sights flash by on a thrilling Thames Rockets speedboat tour: Race down the Thames and catch views of London’s landmarks during a high-speed ride.  
9. Book tickets to the cutting-edge ABBA Voyage: Relive the magic of the Swedish band’s iconic hits brought to life with spectacular special effects.  
10. Take a day trip from London over the May bank holiday weekends: Escape the city to explore exciting destinations such as Windsor Castle, Stonehenge or Brighton. 

Theatre shows in London in May

1. Don’t miss the reopening of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: Watch a show beneath the stars at the magical outdoor theatre.
2. Explore the best West End shows for kids: Enjoy family-friendly classics such as Matilda, The Lion King and Wicked.  
3. Watch a hilarious comedy musical over the May bank holidays: Treat yourself to award-winning hits such as The Book of Mormon. 
4. Experience an Oliver-Award nominated show this May: Check back closer to the team to see which shows snapped up an award.
5. See matinee performances, limited-run shows or a new play.

Discover the best theatre in London in May.

Outdoor activities in London in May

1. Explore London's famous Royal Parks: Stroll through London's beautiful green spaces such as Greenwich Park, Richmond Park and Kensington Gardens.
2. Swing from the heights of Battersea Park at Go Ape: Strap yourself in for the adventure of a lifetime as you soar from tree to tree. 
3. Head to some of London's greener neighbourhoods: Escape the bustle of the city centre and visit the likes of Barnes and Little Venice.

4. Take a float on a boat or cool off in one of London's lidos: From the natural swimming ponds in Hampstead Heath to Olympic-sized pools, there are plenty of plunge-worthy spots across the capital.

5. Walk the decks of HMS Belfast: Hop aboard the iconic Second World War battleship moored on the Thames and hear stories from those who served the ship.

6. Climb the roof of London's famous white dome with Up at The O2: The exhilarating 90-minute climb is best enjoyed at sunset.

Exhibitions over the May bank holidays in London

1. Experience world-famous art at FRAMELESS: See the captivating works of legendary artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Andy Warhol brought to life.  

2. Check out the brilliant Lost Music Venues at V&A: Visit the intruiging display of around 50 'lost' performance spaces from the 1980s to 2010s - some of you may even spot yourselves in the photos!

3. Dive into fascinating artworks featured in Thomas Gainsborough at Tate Modern: This landmark exhibition marks the artist's 300th anniversary of his birth and allows visitors to step into the glamourous world of Britain's most beloved society portraitist.. Opens 20 May

4. Head to the Design Museum to see The Nue Black Aesthetic: Explore this celebration of contemporary Black designers who are reshaping the British design landscape through architecture, fashion, furniture, and more.

5. Visit Catharina van Hemessen: Signature Works at the National Gallery: Uncover the work of one of Europe's earliest women painters featuring an international collection that has been brought together for the very first time. 4 March-30 May

6. Soak up the esquisite work of Monet at Tate Modern: Get up close with some of Claude Monet's best paintings including rarely seen works from private collections. 25 Feb-27 Jun 2027

7. Step into the world of David Bowie at the V&A East Storehouse: Uncover costumes, sounds and sketches that defined the visionary artist. 

Check back nearer the time to explore the best exhibitions in London in May 2027.

Festivals over the May bank holidays in London

1. Delight in stunning floral displays at the Belgravia in Bloom: Stroll through breathtaking flower arrangements and visit Eccleston Square for delicious food and drink. TBC

2. Celebrate an entire decade of GALA Festival at Peckham Rye Park: Dance the weekend away to music from Floating Points, Moodymann, Ben UFO and Caribou. TBC

3. Secure tickets to electronic music festival Field Day at Brockwell Park: The lineup sees headliner Peggy Gou joined by Jungle, Mall Grab and Skream & Benga. TBC

4. Enjoy a culinary adventure at Foodies Festival in Syon Park: See performances from top musicians and live demonstrations by celebrity chefs. TBC

5. Don’t miss London’s number one jazz, funk and soul festival Cross The Tracks: Make it a bank holiday weekend to remember with great food, workshops, talks and more. TBC

6. Celebrate carnival vibes at City Splash festival: Honour Caribbean and African culture in the UK music scene with music such as roots, dub, jungle and garage. TBC

Best pubs and restaurants for alfresco dining in London

1. Book an outside table at one of London's renowned alfresco dining spots: Soak up the sunshine and dine in style at popular destinations such as Kingly Court, St Christopher’s Place and Covent Garden.

2. Sip in style at one of London's stunning rooftop bars: Whether its cocktails, mocktails or craft beers, unwind at one of the city's idyllic drinking dens. 
3. Chow down at one of London's top picnic spots: Pack a blanket, secure the snacks and don't forget your sun cream for a perfect day outdoors.

4. Head to one of city's top beer gardens: Enjoy tasty, refreshing drinks under the sun over the bank holiday weekends.

Shopping in London in May

1. Discover London's hottest shopping destinations: Check out late-spring deals or find new pieces at Battersea Power Station, Oxford Street or Carnaby Street.
2. Head to Bicester Village to refresh your spring-summer wardrobe: Secure big discounts on luxury labels at this popular outlet village.

3. Explore one of London's weekly markets: From antiques and crafts to trinkets and clothing, London's vibrant markets offer something for everyone.

4. Check out IKEA on Oxford Street: Tuck into Swedish meatballs and explore trending homeware at this iconic flagship store. 

5. Grab some greenery at Columbia Road Flower Market: Whether you're seeking a new houseplant or gorgeous blooms, this east London market has it all.

6. Browse London's department stores: Visit world-famous stores such as Selfridges, Harrods, and Fortnum and Mason for luxury homeware, clothing and beauty products.

Frequently asked questions about the May bank holiday in London 

Is May a good time to visit London?  

May is an ideal month to experience London’s charm. The city’s gorgeous parks are in bloom, pub gardens and terraces come alive, and major attractions host a variety of seasonal events. 

If you’re visiting London outside of the bank holiday (3 and 31 May), be sure to explore our roundup of the best things to do in London today and exciting things to do in London this month.  

May bank holiday opening hours and transport in London  

Monday 3 and 31 May are public holidays. While most attractions remain open on bank holidays, it’s worth checking with specific venues to confirm their operating hours in advance.  

Public transport services – including the London Underground – may run on a reduced service on the bank holiday. Plan your journey in advance on the TfL website or consider walking or cycling where possible.  

What to wear in London in May 

Pack light, breathable clothing and don’t forget sun cream for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 10 to 19C (50 to 66F), but it’s worth packing warm jumpers and waterproof clothing for unpredictable rainy spells. 

Find tips on where to stay in London, download the Visit London app for pocket-sized inspiration and check out our weekly guide to what’s on this weekend.