The ultimate guide to visiting London in May

From the colorful blooms of Kew Gardens and the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show to the city’s many lively street markets, there’s no shortage of things to do in London in spring. May brings warm, sunny days with fewer crowds than summer, making it the perfect time to explore iconic London landmarks like the Tower of London and the London Eye.

Stroll through the Rose Garden at Hyde Park, enjoy South Bank’s busy promenade, or browse one-of-a-kind antiques at an open-air market. Explore essential English activities and seasonal attractions in this guide to visiting London in May.

Why go to London in May?

London hosts a variety of festivals and exhibitions in May

Spring is in full swing in London in May, bringing seasonal events like the world-famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Britain’s largest flower show held in the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s stunning grounds each year.

Head to Covent Garden for the unique May Fayre & Puppet Festival, enjoy hands-on activities at London Craft Week, or celebrate London History Day on May 31. If you’re a foodie, sample delicious dishes at the Foodies Festival, held in late May, or the Free-From Festival, the UK’s only gluten- and dairy-free food festival.

Rain or shine, there’s always something to do in London

While May brings more sunshine and longer days, you can still expect the occasional rainstorm during your trip — it is England after all! Luckily, there’s no better place to be on a rainy day than in London.

Whether you’re singing along to hits in a West End theatre, perusing the iconic Harrods department store in Knightsbridge, or admiring Vincent Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” at the National Gallery, London’s many rainy-day attractions are sure to keep you occupied when the weather isn’t playing along.

Enjoy top sights in London with fewer crowds

May is an excellent time to enjoy popular attractions in London without the peak summer crowds. Take advantage of the shorter lines and visit London’s top sights, like the London Eye, the British Museum, and the Tower of London.

May is the best time to enjoy London’s spring blooms

The beauty of London’s parks and gardens is unparalleled year-round. But they’re especially stunning in May, when the colorful spring blooms are most vibrant. Enjoy a moment of solitude on the quieter days of May at Hampstead Heath or Holland Park. For the best flower displays, check out Kensington Gardens, Kew Gardens, or Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens in Regent’s Park.

Open-air events abound in London in May

On a sunny day in the city, you can enjoy award-winning reenactments of Shakespeare in the Globe Theatre’s roofless auditorium or catch a show at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, which kicks off its season in May. Find antiques, plants, local cuisine, and more at one of London’s outdoor markets, like the Columbia Road Flower Market each Sunday. If it does start to drizzle, head to Borough Market, London’s oldest and largest covered food market.

What’s the weather like in London in May?

On average, May is one of the sunniest months of the year, with pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours. Despite the sunshine, London weather in May is still unpredictable, and you should be prepared for the occasional cool days and rainstorms too. Bring a rain jacket or umbrella and dress in layers to prepare for sudden weather changes.

• Average daytime temperature: 50-66 F (10-19 C)
• Average night temperature: 46-63 F (8-17 C)
• Average days of rain: 15
• Average days of sun: 9

Top things to do in London in May

1. Attend the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

The annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show is Britain’s most famous flower show, with over 100 prize-winning floral displays and showstopping gardens throughout nearly three acres on the lush grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Enjoy a quintessentially English experience as you explore eco-gardens, rare and exotic plants, futuristic floral design, and more. Besides the beautiful gardens, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show has plenty of places to have breakfast, champagne, afternoon tea, and more, plus there’s the chance for keen gardeners to buy plants and professional supplies.

Address

RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Bull Ring Gate, London SW3 4LW

2. Admire spring blooms in Kew Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kew Gardens is one of London’s most beautiful gardens, home to over 50,000 plants across 330 acres of biodiverse green space. While it’s a popular place to visit year-round, Kew Gardens transforms each spring, with pale-pink cherry blossoms, enchanting bluebell woods, magnificent magnolias, and tulips surrounded by buzzing bees and butterflies.

In May, you can book an early morning yoga session in the Grade I-listed Temperate House, stroll through the aromatic bluebells, or pack a picnic and enjoy an alfresco meal among crocuses and delicate snowdrops.

Address

Richmond, United Kingdom

Opening hours

Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM

3. Spend a day outdoors along the South Bank

Take advantage of the warm spring weather and enjoy a stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames. Beginning on the Queen’s Walk, a walking path along the riverfront, pass iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge, and Tower Bridge.

Soak in the sights and sounds of street performers, pop-up market stalls, food vendors, and skateboarders along the waterfront. Sunset is the best time to take this stroll with smaller crowds and unbeatable views of the London cityscape.

Address

London SE1 9PP

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

4. Browse antiques and more at the Portobello Road Market

For a spring shopping spree, head to Portobello Road Market, one of London’s most popular open-air markets. Located in the swanky Notting Hill neighborhood, known for its rows of pastel-colored Victorian houses, the Portobello Road Market is like five markets in one, with sections dedicated to secondhand goods, fashion, food, clothing, and its primary draw, antiques.

While you’ll find the best selection on weekends, especially Saturday mornings, this buzzing street is packed with cafés, unique shops, and postcard-worthy sights all week long.

Address

London W11 1LJ

Opening hours

Open daily, 8:00 AM–7:00 PM

5. Enjoy outdoor activities in Hyde Park

With 350 acres of manicured green space, Hyde Park is a haven of nature and tranquility in the heart of London. Enjoy a picnic on Hyde Park’s lush meadow, take a scenic boat ride on the Serpentine, or visit the Rose Garden, the crown jewel of Hyde Park.

Children love the Peter Pan–inspired Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Playground, a stone’s throw from Kensington Palace. Plus, if the weather does take a turn, the museums of South Kensington are just a 10-minute walk away.

Address

W Carriage Dr, London W2 2UH

Opening hours

Open daily, 5:00 AM–midnight