The May Bank Holiday looks set to be in the twenties with a very low chance of rain – great news! So, engage your FOMO, grab an umbrella (just in case. This is still London, after all) and head outdoors. Because it doesn't matter if you call the city home or you're just visiting, there is always something to see and do. So, if you're going to be in the area, here are ten of the best things to do in London this May Bank Holiday.
10 things to do in London this May Bank Holiday
Peckham Record Fair
Are you a fan of vinyl? If so, this is the perfect event for you. Taking place at Peckham's Copeland Park, this is a wall-to-wall vinyl experience. While this is a great event for locals, it's often even better for visitors. Here you'll find many UK specific releases you could not find in the U.S. (or elsewhere). Stop by on May 26 to uncover hidden gems, uber rare wax and get some sound advice from HiFi dealers.
All Points East
Kick back and soak up the festival vibe at All Points East. The event begins on May 24 and lasts all the way through June 2. East London will take over Victoria and have a number of big-name performances, including The Chemical Brothers, Bon Iver, Christine & the Queens, and The Strokes.
Kew Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens is more than a beautiful green space. It's a fantastic destination for both you and the family, with rotating displays and works of art, not to mention special events taking place within the gardens. Make sure you don’t miss the Chihuly: Reflections on Nature exhibit. This incredible exhibition, created by Seattle-based Dale Chihuly, is a stunning combination of art, science and nature. Several of the pieces are being exhibited for the first time in the UK.
There's a reason the Tower of London is at the top of every guide book published about the city. Here you can take in tours given by the Beefeaters. You'll be able to see the Crown Jewels, in addition to the Line of Kings, which is one of the oldest exhibits in the entire world.
Adams Antiques Fair
Taking place at The Royal Horticultural Hall, Victoria this is a fantastic opportunity if you are an antiques hunter. You'll find everything from furniture to jewellery here, so make sure to show up early to beat the crowds (it is an extremely popular event).
Westminster Abbey
When it comes to famous churches, few can compete with Westminster Abbey. The abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage site location that holds all kinds of historical significance for the British royal family. However, beyond the royal family, famous authors such as Charles Dickens and Isaac Newton are buried here. So, whether you want to visit a famous gravestone or see the church where Kate and Wills were married in 2011, Westminster Abbey is a must.
Electric Soul: Bank Holiday Special
The Blues Kitchen always has a great combination of delicious BBQ food, delicious drinks and live music you can get down to. If the modern dance scene isn't your thing, check out The Blues Kitchen soul and blues music. The event kicks off on Saturday at 9PM in Brixton, Camden and Shoreditch.
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Literature lovers, a visit to the Globe Theatre is a must. The original theatre, constructed in the 16th century, no longer stands, having been destroyed by fire in 1613. However, this open-air theatre is a faithful reconstruction of the original theatre. Watching a play here will transport you back in time, so why not take in Henry IV Part 1 from the vantage point of an Elizabethan? If you’d rather hear the ingenuity of engineering that created the theatre, take the guided tour.
Feria de Londres
What Bank Holiday would be complete without a salsa dance on the South Bank? Feria de Londres runs from the 24th to the 26th and is a great spot to enjoy tapas, Spanish dancing, and all kinds of other activities. Just come on down to South Bank to check out the festivities.
Dalston Rooftop Party
Dance the night away at the Dalston Rooftop Party. It takes place on Saturday, beginning at 3 PM and lasts all the way until Sunday, 12AM. The Dalston Roof Park is found at The Prince House 18-22 Ashwin Street. If you're interested in the rooftop party, you should act quickly as it has sold out each of the last three years. Stop by the Roof Park ahead of time to pick up passes.
Plenty to See and Do This Bank Holiday
These are just a few of the top activities to consider in London over the coming Bank holiday. Whether you live in the city or you're just visiting, make sure to get out and explore.