Exciting Things to Do in London This Spring Bank Holiday Weekend
Spring has officially sprung here in London, and with the May 2025 Bank Holiday just around the corner, when is a better time to visit? Think beer gardens, food festivals, outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant nightlife. It's time to make the most of the long weekend and soak up the energy of the capital.
Stay with us at Imperial London Hotels, conveniently located in central London, so that you are just moments from it all, you can stay close to the action whilst still having a quiet corner to rest.
1. Cultural Events
ABBA Voyage Concerts
Experience ABBA's holographic performances featuring classic hits like "Super Trouper" and "Take A Chance On Me." The updated show relaunches in May after a brief hiatus for new content testing.
Charming garden view of a fairytale-style brick house, ideal for peaceful strolls during relaxing London weekend breaks.
Chelsea Flower Show (May 20–24)
Visit the Royal Hospital Chelsea to admire innovative garden designs and vibrant floral displays at this prestigious event.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Season Begins (May 10)
Enjoy open-air performances in a picturesque setting as the summer season kicks off.
2. Live Entertainment
Field Day Festival (May 24)
Attend this electronic music festival at Brockwell Park, featuring performances from prominent artists in the genre.
Cross the Tracks Festival (May 25)
Immerse yourself in jazz, funk, and soul music at this one-day festival in Brockwell Park.
West End Theatre Productions
Catch popular shows such as "Disney's The Lion King," "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," and "Mrs Doubtfire" during the bank holiday weekends.
3. Special Bank Holiday Events
Spring Bank Holiday Outdoor Yoga (May 26)
Participate in free outdoor yoga sessions in various parks across London to mark the bank holiday.
Foodies Festival at Syon Park (May 24–26)
Indulge in a variety of street foods, chef demonstrations, and live music at this popular food festival.
Stay nearby at Tavistock Hotel and enjoy a quiet stroll to the park before curtain up. Afterwards, wind down with cocktails at Woolf & Whistle Bar or a warming curry at Poppadom Indian Kitchen.
DJ playing at an outdoor festival in London, setting the vibe for unforgettable music-filled London weekend breaks and nightlife.
4. Live Entertainment
Field Day Festival – 24 May
Electronic fans, this one's for you. Field Day returns to Brockwell Park with a lineup of world-class DJs, artists, and plenty of big festival energy. Expect craft beer tents and a crowd that’s ready to dance from midday to sunset. It's one of the highlights of London’s music calendar.
Cross The Tracks – 25 May
The following day, Brockwell Park shifts gears for Cross The Tracks to celebrate jazz, funk, R&B, and everything in between. With live performances, record store pop-ups, talks, tastings, and independent food stalls, it’s a full-on day of feel-good fun. Bring your dancing shoes and your appetite.
West End Wonders
A night at the theatre is always a good idea, especially with the West End in full swing over the bank holiday weekend. Watch Simba’s journey unfold in The Lion King, get into the wizarding world with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, or enjoy the quick wit and heart of Mrs Doubtfire.
A double bed with crisp white linens at the President Hotel, a relaxing stay option for central London weekend breaks.
Stay at President Hotel is ideally located, for an evening in the West End, just a short walk from the theatres and Covent Garden. Start your evening with a drink at the Atrium Bar & Restaurant, then head out for a west end show, no need to rush, everything’s right on your doorstep.
People relaxing by the lake in London’s Hampstead Heath’s Park under clear blue skies, a peaceful retreat for London weekend breaks.
Best Outdoor Activities for the Weekend
When the sun’s out, London feels like a different city and there’s no better time to head outside and explore.
Pack up some snacks, grab a blanket, and head to Primrose Hill. The views are iconic, and the vibe is all laid-back locals and lazy-day energy. Feeling adventurous? Jump into the Hampstead Heath ponds. Yep, they're a bit chilly, but it’s a rite of passage and you’ll feel amazing after. Alternatively why not try paddleboarding on the Thames, floating past the London Eye with a paddle in hand? Big main character energy.
When golden hour rolls in, rooftops are calling. Head to Peckham’s Rooftop Film Club and catch The Dark Knight under the stars with the city skyline glowing behind the screen, or head to Madison Rooftop for cocktails and city views so good you’ll forget to check your phone.
Bright and modern room at the Bedford Hotel in London, offering a stylish and central stay perfect for London weekend breaks.
When you're ready to wind down, Stay at Bedford Hotel you will still be in the city but you will get quiet rooms, soft beds, and a post-adventure pit stop at Botanica Restaurant & Bar, where the drinks are cold, and the small plates are just the thing after a day out in the city.
Woman and child enjoying views of Tower Bridge in London, capturing a family-friendly moment during London weekend breaks.
Family-Friendly Ideas for the Long Weekend
Little ones in tow? London’s packed with ways to keep everyone entertained, big smiles guaranteed.
Start with the classics: London Zoo is always a hit (penguins, tigers, and monkeys), and SEA LIFE Aquarium gets you up close with sharks, rays and all things under the sea. It's like stepping into Finding Nemo, but real.
For curious minds, head to the Natural History Museum - dinosaurs, space, volcanoes, and loads of hands-on science fun. Bonus: it’s free entry and very rainy-day-proof, just in case the weather does its thing.
Tucked-away gems like the Cartoon Museum and London Transport Museum are perfect for a shorter visit, packed with colour, nostalgia and interactive bits for the kids.
Man enjoying breakfast by the window in a stylish Morton Hotel apartment room, perfect for a cosy and quiet London weekend break.
Stay at Morton Hotel, where you can settle into literature-inspired apartments or rooms and feel right at home. Crafted with cosiness, honour English charm, made to feel a little bit special. After a busy day out, head downstairs to The Library Bar for a quiet moment and a well-earned nightcap
For the Foodies, the Brunchers & the Night Owls
There’s something about a long weekend that makes food taste better, drinks go down easier, and nights last longer.
Start riverside at Southbank Centre Food Market or head to Lower Stable Street for indie bites and chilled vibes.
Looking to try something new? Bubala opens in Soho this April with bold, veg-forward Middle Eastern plates. Tapas at Barrafina is always a win, or go big on flavour at Poppadom Indian Kitchen in Bloomsbury—perfect for a pre-show dinner.
Warming up for a night out? Grab a pint at The London Pub, then head east—NTS Loft and Ridley Road Market Bar are your go-tos for no-fuss dancing and late-night fun.
Long weekends are for good food, good tunes, and not checking the time.
Twin beds with crisp white linens at the Royal National Hotel, offering a modern and central base for London weekend breaks.
Staying in Royal National Hotel puts you right in the mix. It's affordable, central, and ideal for adventurous weekends. Whether you're visiting with friends, going solo, or booking a Family Room with space to spare. Everything you need, right where the action is.
The Best May 2025 Bank Holiday Starts in Bloomsbury
Whether you’re all about music, markets, family fun, or just soaking up a bit of everything, Bloomsbury’s your ideal base for the long weekend.
Stay with us and enjoy:
Prime location in Central London, close to top attractions, parks, and lively streets
Comfortable rooms perfect for couples, friends, and families
Lots Dining options right on your doorstep, from vibrant flavours to cosy local spots
Make It a Long One
Why not make it a long weekend? Enjoy 30% off Sunday night stays at any of our hotels, all centrally located with tube links, leafy parks, and must-see spots just around the corner. The perfect way to enjoy London to the fullest.