London, look lively! The first of May’s two bank holidays takes place this Monday. And while still a few weeks from the summer equinox, the early May bank holiday feels like the unofficial start of summer in London. Looking for fun ways to fill those sweet extra days off? We’ve got absolutely loads of ideas...just read ou guide.
What’s the signal that summer in London is finally on the horizon? The first alfresco pop-ups cropping up across the city. The weather might not be totally onboard yet, but a few drops of rain won’t put us off a pint and a DJ set with a breeze running through our hair. Between the Bridges, one of the alfresco big hitters, is back this week to mark a new month and the beginning of a new season. Look out for its regular Friday night discos, Sunday parties and drag brunches.
Stay outdoors by hitting up London College of Fashion’s folkloric May Day Rave which promises to be all kinds of ‘Midsommer’ or by walking around Peckham to discover the artistic treats dotted around the area for the Peckham Fringe.
If you’re not convinced by the optimistic outdoors action, stay inside to see quality theatre and art like the PJ Harvey soundtracked Dickens adaption ‘London Tide’ at the National Theatre, the 5-star rated production Sophie Treadwell’s impressionist masterpiece ‘Machinal’, or an ultra-bold but intimate exhibition of Barbara Kruger’s statement art at Sprüth Magers gallery.
Still got gaps in your diary? Embrace the warmer days with a look at the best places to see spring flowers in London, or have a cosy time in one of London’s best pubs. If you’ve still got some space in your week, check out London’s best bars and restaurants, or take in one of these lesser-known London attractions.
RECOMMENDED: Listen and, most importantly, subscribe to Time Out’s brand new, weekly podcast ‘Love Thy Neighbourhood’ and hear famous Londoners show our editor Joe Mackertich around their favourite bits of the city.