60 fun things to do over the May bank holiday weekends in London 2025

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 wax museum Madame Tussauds: Rub shoulders with famous faces 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 IFS Cloud 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 thrilling 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. Book a film-themed walking tour: Visit filming locations and learn fascinating trivia from beloved films such as Harry Potter, Paddington and James Bond. 
5. 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.  
6. 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.  
7. 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: The 2025 season kicks off with Tony Award-winning musical comedy Shucked. 10 May-20 Sep 
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 like The Book of Mormon or The Play That Goes Wrong. 
4. Experience an Oliver-Award nominated show this May: Secure tickets to Fiddler on the Roof at the Barbican or watch the new adaptation of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre. 
5. See matinee performances, limited-run shows or a new play: Don’t miss The Great Gatsby at the London Coliseum or the cherished My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.

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.  

2. Dive into fascinating artworks featured in Electric Dreams at Tate Modern: Discover how artists used experimental machines and algorithms to craft digital artworks before the dawn of the internet age. Until 1 Jun  

3. Head to the Design Museum to see Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style: Explore swimming's evolution, from high-fashion swimwear to cutting-edge architecture and performance-enhancing innovations. Until 17 Aug

4. Visit the Tate Britain for the first major exhibition dedicated to digital artist Ed Atkins: Chart the artist's successful career through writing, paintings, embroidery and drawings. Until 25 Aug  

5. Discover the bold creativity of fashion icon Leigh Bowery! at Tate Modern: Uncover costumes, photographs and inspirations from the pioneering artist. Until 31 Aug  

6. Marvel at Grayson Perry’s new exhibition at The Wallace Collection: Find incredible ceramics, textiles and sculptures at Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur. Until 26 Oct  

7. Secure tickets to see the highly anticipated Cartier exhibition at the V&A: The major exhibition showcases 350 objects including precious gemstones and iconic watches. Until 16 Nov

8. Journey into the history of pirates at the National Maritime Museum: Trace costumes from famous film characters like Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow alongside authentic pirate artefacts. Until 4 Jan 2026 

Festivals over the May bank holidays in London

1. Make tracks to Southbank Centre to check out their electrifying new arts festival, Multitudes: The orchestral festival presents world-class dance, visual art and poetry. 23 Apr-3 May

2. Join the UK’s largest spatial audio festival at Crystal Palace Park: Enjoy cutting-edge performances at Polygon Live LDN from the likes of Kiasmos and Jon Hopkins. 2-4 May

3. Head to Hackney Wick for Queen's Yard Summer Party: More than 100 artists are set to perform across 20 venues in Queen's Yard including CRATE Brewery and Colour Factory. 3 May

4. Delight in stunning floral displays at the Belgravia in Bloom: Stroll through breathtaking flower arrangements and visit Eccleston Square for delicious food and drink. 19-26 May

5. 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. 23-25 May

6. 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. 24 May  

7. Enjoy a culinary adventure at Foodies Festival in Syon Park: See performances from top musicians and live demonstrations by celebrity chefs. 24-26 May  

8. 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. 25 May

9. 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. 26 May

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. Be one of the first to step inside the new 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 May bank holidays 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 holidays (5 and 26 May), be sure to explore our round-up of the best things to do in London today and exciting things to do in London this month.  

May bank holidays opening hours and transport in London  

Both Monday 5 and Monday 26 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 during the bank holidays. 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.