Everything On In May

May is a month of extra days off work, increased temperatures and pre-summer excitement. While this year’s fifth month might not be quite as thrilling as usual, it’s promised to be much better than last year.

With every day passing, England is getting closer and closer to ending restrictions. As we make our way towards Step Three in Boris Johnson’s exit plan, here is your guide to the best weekend breaks, theatre reopenings, gigantic food markets, and things to do in this month of May.

The Great Indoors!

Finally! From Monday 17th May in the UK, we can enjoy a slap-up meal, drinks in a bar or pub, a trip to the cinema, bowling, theatre, and other inside activities (in groups of up to 6 or two households). It’s been a long time coming, and we couldn’t be more excited. Why not kick things off by visiting your local cinema to help them get back on their feet, or book an inside-only restaurant that hasn’t yet opened to show them some love? It’s never been more important to support local, independent businesses.

Seven Dials Market is set to re-open in London this month, featuring vegan outlet, Club Mexicana, Yum Bun, Nanban, El Pollote, as well as Pick & Cheese, East London Liquor Company and Gipsy Hill Brewing Company. Make sure you book your table!

A brand new London venue, Between The Bridges, also launches this month. The city’s biggest beer garden (over 4,000 sq ft!), it will also feature music, entertainment, and food on Southbank. But wait, it gets better. Entry into Between The Bridges is free apart from on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5pm when entry is £5.

Festivals!

Whilst we wait for restrictions to lift fully and experience festivals in-person once again, why not rev yourself up by tuning in to some brilliant digital festivals? The Great Escape Festival Online takes place 13th – 14th May, featuring a killer line-up of emerging talent, including Smoothboi Ezra and Alfie Templeman. Virtual reality festival, HowTheLightGetsIn, is on 29th May, playing host to more than 100 speakers and artists, 80+ events, and 10 virtual stages. Featuring comedy, philosophical talks and musical performances, this isn’t one to miss.

Plan a Weekend Break

Whilst it may still be tricky to hop on a plane, it can sometimes be more exciting to discover somewhere new right on your doorstep. With warmer weather coming in and domestic trips back on the table, it’s time to plan your next break from the city. Whether it’s the Cotswolds, the Peak District or even the Gower Peninsula in the south of Wales, we recommend getting outside and exploring a variety of unique, charming old towns, tranquil lakes and beautiful coastal landscapes. The Good Life Society is running their next Summer Camp from 30th July – 2nd August. An intimate event for up to 100 people, held at Hawarden Estate in North Wales, be sure to book your space now to avoid missing out!

It’s Finally Time to Go to the Theatre

As theatres begin to open up their doors to the public again, it’s time to take a seat and enjoy some of your favourite shows and new performances. Why not see the award-winning musical that has been bursting with joy on the West End since 2017? ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’ sees a young boy who doesn’t quite fit in and is terrified about the future. Supported by his loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness and into the spotlight. For more information and tickets visit their website.

Or why not try new roaring comedy ‘Death Drop’ starring Courtney Act, Monét X Change and a cast of drag-queen favourites. Arriving at London’s Garrick Theatre, get ready for this hilarious “Dragatha Christie Murder-Mystery!” For more information and tickets click here.

More Art Exhibitions Continue to Open

London’s art scene has been struggling with the rest of us, but now it’s ready to make a grand return. Whilst a few outdoor and independent exhibitions have been viewable in April, this month sees the major art galleries reopening on or around May 17. Major shows we recommend checking out include Zanele Muholi at Tate Modern, Jean Dubuffet’s ‘Brutal Beauty’ at the Barbican, Matthew Barney: Redoubt at the Hayward Gallery and Tracey Emin / Edvard Munch ‘The Loneliness of the Soul’ at the Royal Academy of Arts. ‘A History Untold’ at Signature African Art, curated by England rugby player and philanthropist, Maro Itoje, will begin on 20 May. The exhibition will celebrate Black history and an inclusive, post-colonial historical education by telling stories from multiple African and African Diaspora perspectives.

Eat to Your Heart’s Desire

Italian food market Eataly is dropping anchor in London this month. Its first UK venue is 42,000 square feet of deli goodness at Broadgate next to Liverpool Street Station. The ginormous space features a retail market, several restaurants, takeaway food stalls, a drinking and dining terrace, and even a cookery school. With eating-in options limited to the outdoor terrace, Eataly’s two indoor restaurants, ‘Cucina del Mercato’ and ‘Pasta e Pizza’ will open for business after restrictions for dining are relaxed on May 17.

See Spring in Full Bloom

Whilst the Chelsea Flower Show is set to take place in September this year, many other Spring festivals are going ahead. The city of Manchester is looking forward to giving a flowery welcome back with the Manchester Flower Show. With many local businesses taking part, as well as the central library and cathedral, the streets will be bursting with floral displays and quirky green installations. Residents are also encouraged to create balcony displays of their own. For more details visit their website.