- Apr 26
- 20 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Things To Do In May, 2026
Toot, toot, that is me tooting the Tat horn. I am allowed to, as Charlotte Becque created this article and good work deserves to be celebrated. This, dear ladles and jellyspoons, is one marvellous compilation of events up and down the country to keep your mind ticking through May. We have of course done a separate list for Craft Week, as it is an important slot in the design calendar, but for everyone else, don't worry, there is something for everyone in the list below.
Now - Week Commencing 4th May
Weezie’s, Now Open, 14-15 Eccleston Yards, London, SW1W 9AZ
Weezie’s is a relaxed all day pizza spot in Eccleston Yards, founded by Abbie Roden and Will Sandbach, serving thin crust pizzas made fresh daily alongside small plates, pints, cocktails and a thoughtful wine list. Inspired by Abbie’s grandmother “Weezie” and led in the kitchen by Sumant Sinai, it offers a lively neighbourhood setting where guests can gather for great food and drinks, with al fresco seating in the courtyard and a seamless connection to its sister venue, amie wine studio.
Jolene Bridle Lane opens this spring in the heart of Soho, bringing the much loved bakery’s signature pastries, sandwiches and expertly sourced coffee to a new space within the Aries flagship store. Founded by Jeremie Cometto-Lingenheim and David Gingell, the all day spot offers a relaxed setting for breakfast, lunch or a quick coffee, with seasonal ingredients, regenerative flour baking and a rotating selection of guest roasters.
Legion Projects x House Of Goblin Present ‘Awakening Blodeuwedd’, Now - 3rd May, 15 Union Street, Stroud, GL52HE
Awakening Blodeuwedd brings together exhibition, talks and hands on workshops inspired by the writing of Alan Garner, presented by Legion Projects and House of Goblin during the Neo Ancients festival. Featuring work by The Broom Cupboard, Tom Sewell, Fern Thomas and Sean Vicary, the programme invites visitors to explore myth, pattern and storytelling, with ceramics workshops and discussions that reimagine the world of The Owl Service through making, conversation and collective imagination.
Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition 2026, Now - 4th May, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition returns to Somerset House with a compelling display of over 300 images capturing the past year in photography. Showcasing winning and shortlisted works alongside a special presentation of Joel Meyerowitz, the exhibition offers an immersive journey through diverse styles, stories and perspectives, making it an unmissable moment in the photography calendar.
Dos Verds I Un Blau at Cadogan Gallery presents a new body of work by Ramon Enrich, exploring geometric, architectural landscapes that blur the line between reality and imagination. Through shifting perspectives, enigmatic structures and subtle Mediterranean tones, the paintings create a contemplative and dreamlike sense of space, reflecting Enrich’s ongoing fascination with form, light and abstraction.
Mertoun House Tours 2026 offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the country’s most significant private art collections, with guided visits to Mertoun House in the Scottish Borders. Including return transport from Edinburgh, the tour provides insight into the remarkable Bridgewater Collection, featuring works by masters such as Rembrandt and Titian, alongside expert commentary and refreshments.
Paula Rego: Story Line presents a major exhibition of drawings and works on paper by Paula Rego, offering a rare and intimate insight into her lifelong practice at Victoria Miro. Bringing together previously unseen works, sketchbooks and archival material, the exhibition traces Rego’s powerful use of line across a range of media, revealing how drawing shaped her distinctive storytelling and exploration of personal, political and imaginative worlds.
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2025 arrives at the Laing Art Gallery alongside Exploring Identity, offering a compelling journey through portraiture from the 16th century to today. Featuring prize winning contemporary works and historic pieces by artists including Francis Bacon and Frederic Leighton, the dual exhibition explores identity, memory and human experience through some of the finest portraits across time.
Early Netherlandish Drawings at the British Museum explores a pivotal moment in artistic innovation, when drawings in the Low Countries evolved from workshop studies into works of art in their own right. Featuring around 120 rare works by artists including Rogier van der Weyden, Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Hendrick Goltzius, the exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the creative processes behind painting, tapestry and printmaking before 1600.
Worn The Life Within Clothes at Manchester Art Gallery explores the stories held within clothing, drawing on the city’s remarkable fashion and dress collection. Featuring garments that have been mended, altered and reimagined across centuries, the exhibition reveals how clothing carries memory, identity and history, offering a thoughtful reflection on sustainability, craftsmanship and the emotional value of what we wear.
We Were Like Those Who Dreamed By Nengi Omuku, 1st - 30th May, Pippy Houldsworth Gallery, 6 Heddon Street, London, W1B 4BT
We Were Like Those Who Dreamed at Pippy Houldsworth Gallery presents the second solo exhibition by Nigerian artist Nengi Omuku, exploring the politics of green spaces in urban environments. Through lush, kaleidoscopic paintings on traditional sanyan cloth, Omuku reimagines scenes from Lagos within dreamlike landscapes, using the garden as a powerful symbol of equality, resilience and humanity’s relationship with the natural world.
Brighton Fringe 2026 returns for its 21st year this May, inviting audiences to experience one of the UK’s most exciting open-access festivals, where anyone can stage an event and creativity knows no bounds. With a diverse programme shaped by independent artists and performers, it offers an energetic, ever-changing mix of theatre, comedy, music and more across venues throughout the city
Impermanence presents a new body of work by David Hughes at Awaykin, exploring memory, loss and emotional transformation. Through reworked fragments of images and digital traces, the exhibition creates a poignant visual language that reflects on grief, longing and the process of healing.
Ancient Form | Modern Vision presents The Radical Legacy of Antiquity in 20th Century British Art, an upcoming exhibition by Elliot Davies in collaboration with Willoughby Gerrish. Bringing together works by Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Ben Nicholson and others, the exhibition explores how ancient sculptural traditions shaped a generation of British artists, offering a refined and thought provoking perspective on the dialogue between classical antiquity and modern vision.
Lynn Chadwick at Houghton Hall opens this May, presenting a major showcase of works by Lynn Chadwick across the house and grounds of Houghton Hall. Spanning four decades, the exhibition brings together iconic angular figures, dynamic beasts and rarely seen works, offering a striking dialogue between Chadwick’s powerful sculptures and the grandeur of the surrounding architecture and landscape.
1536 arrives in the West End following a sold-out run at the Almeida Theatre, offering a bold and darkly comic take on history with a distinctly modern edge. Written by Ava Pickett and directed by Lyndsey Turner, the production reunites Liv Hill, Siena Kelly and Tanya Reynolds in a sharp exploration of female friendship that is as witty as it is fiercely relevant.
Week Commencing 4th May
Affordable Art Fair Hampstead 2026 returns to the picturesque setting of Hampstead Heath this May, bringing together over 100 galleries from across the UK and around the world. Visitors can discover and buy thousands of original contemporary artworks starting from £100, making it an inviting and accessible way to begin or grow an art collection in a relaxed, open-air setting.
Miista London Sample Sale invites visitors to browse a curated selection of footwear, clothing and accessories, including archive pieces, samples and rare one off designs. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, it offers a chance to discover unique finds while meeting the team and fellow fans of the brand.
Atmosfloric Livestream brings together award winning garden designer Sean A Pritchard and renowned hair stylist Sam McKnight for an inspiring conversation on colour, style and floral design. Marking the launch of Pritchard’s new book, the livestream explores the relationship between gardens and interiors, drawing on iconic spaces such as Charleston Farmhouse and offering fresh ideas for bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
The Many Hands Sale returns this spring with a thoughtfully curated mix of much loved makers and exciting new voices, offering a warm and inspiring space for conscious shopping, conversation and discovery. Visitors can browse sustainable fashion, homeware and vintage finds while supporting meaningful causes, including a £2 door donation for those affected by the war in Ukraine and special pieces benefiting Maggie’s Centres.
RHS Malvern Spring Festival welcomes the arrival of the gardening season with a vibrant celebration of inspiring show gardens, stunning floral displays and expert planting ideas. Set in Worcestershire, it offers visitors the chance to shop for plants and garden essentials while enjoying a lively programme that brings together growers, designers and garden enthusiasts alike.
ANDY EARL × Bankside Yards, 8th May, Arch10, Bankside Yards, 250 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 9AX
Andy Earl at Bankside Yards presents an exclusive showcase of portraits, landscapes and music photography by Andy Earl at Bankside Yards. Held at Arch10, the exhibition offers visitors the chance to experience Earl’s distinctive visual storytelling in one of London’s newest creative spaces.
Ceramic Art London brings together the finest contemporary ceramic artists in a vibrant central London setting, offering visitors the chance to discover and purchase exceptional, original work. Curated by the Craft Potters Association of Great Britain, it invites collectors, designers and curious newcomers alike to experience the richness, skill and innovation shaping ceramics today.
KNWLS London Archive Sale offers the chance to shop past season ready to wear, special archival pieces and exclusive samples from KNWLS in London. With pieces from the Jean Paul Gaultier x KNWLS collaboration, alongside shoes, sunglasses and accessories, the sale is a rare opportunity to discover sought after designs, with stock refreshed throughout the day.
ArtWorks Creative Weekend Landscape Painting invites participants to explore landscape painting in a relaxed and welcoming setting at the Millennium Gallery. Led by Richard Johnson, the session guides attendees step by step in creating a painting inspired by sunrise over Higger Tor, with all materials provided and no experience required.
Mambow at Lulu’s sees Abby Lee return south of the river for a one-night kitchen takeover at Lulu’s. Cooking alongside Head Chef Sam Lawrence, the evening will showcase Mambow's bold Malaysian flavours through a vibrant menu paired with eclectic wines selected by GM Charlie Westover.
Whodunnit [Unrehearsed] 4 rides into the Park Theatre with a riotous Wild West twist, blending murder mystery, music and comedy in a unique, star studded fundraiser. With a different celebrity stepping in each night as an entirely unrehearsed Sheriff, the show promises unpredictable chaos, audience singalongs and an immersive cabaret style experience that places viewers right at the heart of the action.
![Whodunnit [Unrehearsed] 4](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c28ce3_493091c8e07940bdb0987085eda7163e~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_980,h_548,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/c28ce3_493091c8e07940bdb0987085eda7163e~mv2.png)
Henry Moore Monumental Nature transforms Kew Gardens into an extraordinary open air gallery, showcasing monumental sculptures and smaller works by Henry Moore. Set among the gardens’ iconic landscapes, the exhibition brings together large scale installations and an accompanying indoor display at the Shirley Sherwood Gallery, offering an immersive exploration of Moore’s lifelong dialogue between sculpture and the natural world.
Petersham Warehouse Sale offers a rare chance to browse a curated selection of furniture, garden pieces and decorative objects in the beautiful setting of Petersham House. Set across the tennis courts, this relaxed open air sale invites visitors to discover one off finds and well loved pieces at a slower pace, with refreshments including coffee, tea and pastries adding to the atmosphere of a leisurely day out.
Week Commencing 11th May
Uncovering Elsa The Truly Surreal Story of Schiaparelli invites audiences to delve into the remarkable life of Elsa Schiaparelli through a fascinating online discussion hosted by the Victoria and Albert Museum. In conversation, curator Sonnet Stanfill and author Justine Picardie explore her rise as a pioneer of avant garde style, including her influential circle of clients such as Wallis Simpson and Marlene Dietrich, whose bold personalities helped define her enduring legacy.
London Craft Week 2026 transforms the capital into a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship, with exhibitions, demonstrations and special events unfolding across galleries, studios and historic venues. Bringing together over 1000 makers, designers and brands from around the world, it offers a rare chance to see exceptional skill up close, meet the creators and discover pieces defined by substance, creativity and innovation.
CARE is a moving new production at the Young Vic, written and directed by Alexander Zeldin. Following a family navigating the challenges of ageing, care and change, the play offers a tender and deeply human portrait of loss, resilience and the quiet moments of connection that give life meaning.
The Decorative Fair offers an inspiring day out for interior designers, collectors and anyone with a passion for beautifully crafted spaces, bringing together 130 exhibitors showcasing antiques, fine art and 20th Century design from the 1700s to the 1970s. Set in Battersea Park, the Spring Fair blends interior treasures with garden pieces perfect for outdoor living.
Colour Matters: In Conversation With Laura Burlington And Edward Bulmer, 13th May, Chatsworth House, Bakewell, DE45 1PP
Colour Matters In Conversation with Laura Burlington and Edward Bulmer offers a fascinating insight into the art of colour at Chatsworth House. Hosted by Giles Kime, the discussion brings together Laura Burlington and Edward Bulmer to explore the creation of a new palette inspired by the house and its landscape, revealing the history of pigments, sustainable design principles and how these colours can be used in contemporary interiors.
Inspiring Makers 2026, 13th May, The Furniture Makers' Company, Guildhall, High Street, Bath, BA1 5AW
Inspiring Makers 2026 brings together leading voices in British craft, furniture making and design for a day of insight and connection at the historic Guildhall in Bath. Hosted by Artichoke and the Furniture Makers' Company, the not-for-profit event invites emerging talent and established figures to explore the future of craftsmanship through a rich programme of talks, discussions, and networking.
Charleston Festival returns as a vibrant celebration of bold ideas and boundary pushing creativity, bringing together leading voices from across art, literature, politics and music. Set at Charleston Farmhouse, the programme features live conversations, performances and workshops with contributors including Sandi Toksvig, Reni Eddo-Lodge, Olly Alexander, Ocean Vuong and Sheku Kanneh-Mason, offering an inspiring and thought provoking experience for all.
Studio Michael Anastassiades Sample Sale offers a rare opportunity to shop pieces from the studio’s collection and archive at up to 80% off, including ex-display designs, samples, seconds and end-of-stock pieces. Held over three days, the sale is ideal for design enthusiasts looking to discover special finishes and collectable pieces available for purchase and collection in person only.
Wimbledon Art Fair invites visitors to step inside over 180 working studios and experience one of London’s most dynamic art events, where original and affordable pieces can be discovered and bought directly from the artists. Held within the vibrant community of Wimbledon Art Studios, this free entry fair offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, celebrating creativity while making art accessible to all.
Firsts London - Rare Book Fair, 14th - 17th May, Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York's Square, King's Road, London, SW3 4RY
Firsts London is one of the world’s leading rare book fairs, bringing together collectors, dealers and bibliophiles in the heart of Chelsea. From historic manuscripts and first editions to literary curiosities and ephemera, it offers a unique opportunity to discover remarkable works and browse an exceptional range of books spanning centuries.
Sébastien Coutheillas Chronologies 2026 marks the London debut of Parisian artist Sébastien Coutheillas, presenting a new body of work spanning painting, drawing and collage. Hosted by Elizabeth Dimond, the exhibition brings together layered compositions that move between abstraction and figuration, where fragments of imagery and gesture build richly textured surfaces that foreground the material presence of the work.
Mortlake Tapestry Celebration invites visitors to mark the return of a remarkable seventeenth century textile at the Garden Museum, following its meticulous conservation. Through talks from conservators and historians including Zenzie Tinker, Ania Golebiowska and Catherine Horwood, the event offers a fascinating insight into the tapestry’s restoration and historical significance, before concluding with a celebratory drinks reception.
SheInspiresMe Car Boot Sale returns to the Selfridges car park this May to celebrate its tenth anniversary, offering a stylish and feel good day of shopping in central London. Featuring designer, vintage and pre loved fashion donated by leading brands and industry insiders, the event combines exceptional finds with a powerful purpose, with all proceeds supporting women survivors of war.
The Orchards Brocante With Chloe Jonason, 16th May, The Orchards, School Lane, Old Somerby, Grantham, LINCS, NG33 4AG
The Orchards Brocante 2026 offers a charming day out in the Lincolnshire countryside, where visitors can browse a thoughtfully curated selection of vintage and handmade homewares, textiles, jewellery, and furniture in a beautiful walled-garden setting. Hosted by Chloe Jonason, this French-inspired market brings together sellers from across the country for a relaxed and atmospheric shopping experience, complete with homemade food, drinks and plenty of hidden treasures to discover.
The Big Sale brings together a stylish edit of second-hand designer fashion, accessories and homeware for a one-day pop-up in Notting Hill. Alongside sought-after fashion labels, visitors can browse beautifully sourced home pieces from names such as Soane, Matilda Goad and Chelsea Textiles, alongside antique and vintage finds, with prices starting from £5 and a portion of proceeds donated to Age UK.
Week Commencing 18th May
In Conversation With Ben Pentreath OBE & James Graham-Stewart brings together two leading voices in design and antiques for a special evening at Pentreath & Hall. Hosted to celebrate Rebecca Christie-Miller’s residency, the event invites guests to hear Ben Pentreath and James Graham-Stewart in conversation, offering insight into their work, shared expertise and the enduring appeal of antiques and design.
Clerkenwell Design Week celebrates one of the world’s most dynamic creative districts, transforming Clerkenwell into a vibrant hub of ideas, innovation and collaboration. With hundreds of showroom events, curated exhibitions, installations and talks, the festival brings together leading interiors brands and emerging talent, offering an inspiring and immersive experience at the heart of the UK’s design scene.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show takes place on the banks of the River Thames, offering an unforgettable experience at the world’s most celebrated flower show. Renowned for its breathtaking gardens and beautiful floral displays, it inspires, educates and delights visitors while showcasing the very best in horticulture.
An Exhibition of Hope brings together Ffern and Horatio's Garden for a sensory installation at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show celebrating the restorative power of scent and flowers. Designed by floral artists Frida Kim and Wagner Kreusch, the immersive display features over 200 British-grown irises in rich seasonal tones, inviting visitors to experience fragrance, colour and nature as symbols of hope, healing and renewal.
In Conversation Flower Painting Now brings together contemporary artists for a lively discussion at Kettle's Yard, exploring the evolving language of floral painting today. Chaired by Naomi Polonsky, the conversation features Jai Chuhan, Anna Freeman Bentley, Bianca Raffaella and Charlotte Verity, offering fresh perspectives on technique, inspiration and the enduring relevance of flowers in art.
Hay Festival takes place in the book town of Hay-on-Wye, bringing together leading writers, thinkers and creatives for a dynamic programme of talks, debates and performances. Known for its lively and welcoming atmosphere, the festival offers an inspiring space to explore new ideas, hear diverse perspectives and engage with some of the most important conversations of our time.
The Hepworth Wakefield Market celebrates the gallery’s 15th birthday with a vibrant gathering of 65 independent makers from across Yorkshire at The Hepworth Wakefield. Showcasing ceramics, jewellery, textiles, prints and more, alongside street food, family activities and summer exhibitions, it offers a lively and creative day out for all ages.
The Folk Archive brings the Folk Fayre to The Buttermarket for a one day celebration of local craft, folklore and community spirit. Filled with makers, artists, vintage finds, books, music, Morris dancing and a special talk by Lally MacBeth, the event promises a lively afternoon of stories, stalls and discovery in the heart of Redruth.
Great British Food Festival Harewood returns this May to the stunning grounds of Harewood House, offering a lively bank holiday celebration of food, drink and entertainment. With artisan producers, street food, chef demonstrations, hands on masterclasses and live music, alongside a vibrant family programme, it promises a fun and flavour filled day out for all ages.
Lewis Hammond Crystal in the Shade marks the first UK museum presentation of Lewis Hammond, unveiling a new body of paintings created for The Hepworth Wakefield. Blending mythological references with contemporary concerns, Hammond’s atmospheric works explore themes of home, belonging and dislocation, offering a powerful and introspective reflection on identity and place.
Week Commencing 25th May
Gardens of Resilience Ukraine brings together photography and conversation for a moving evening at the Garden Museum, exploring land, identity and resilience in wartime Ukraine. Photographer Sergii Polezhaka joins Camellia Taylor and Clare Foster to share powerful images and reflections on gardening through conflict, with a portion of ticket sales supporting the Memory Garden in Kyiv.
Tuscany Unfiltered Biodynamic Reds is the first in a new series of Wine Wednesdays at Trogolo, the latest opening from Lara Boglione and Giovanni Mazzei. Guided by Head of Wine Tariq Khan, the evening invites guests to explore five biodynamic and unfiltered Tuscan reds alongside Italian bar snacks, celebrating lesser-known wines rooted in tradition, ritual and bold character.
Nevill Holt Festival returns with an exciting 2026 programme set in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, where opera, music, art and ideas come together in a truly atmospheric setting. Alongside its celebrated performances and exhibitions at Nevill Holt Hall, the latest programme introduces a second wave of events featuring acclaimed sculptors, BAFTA winning filmmakers, Cuban jazz and leading figures from the West End, offering an even richer and more dynamic festival experience.
The Great Decoy marks the latest opening from Chickpea Group, arriving this May as their tenth pub with rooms and first in Hampshire. Set in the Test Valley countryside, the newly restored former George & Dragon pairs characterful interiors and individually designed bedrooms with a menu of hearty seasonal British dishes, including handmade pies, Sunday roasts and sourdough pizzas, all rooted in local produce and a strong sense of place.
British Landscapes A Sense of Place at Pallant House Gallery explores how artists from the 18th to the 20th century have interpreted the landscapes of the British Isles as expressions of memory, identity and emotion. Bringing together works by more than 60 artists, including Thomas Gainsborough, Barbara Hepworth, Paul Nash and Eric Ravilious, the exhibition traces a rich journey from Romanticism to postwar abstraction, offering a powerful reflection on place, history and belonging.
Haroun Hayward Path through Trees at Pallant House Gallery marks the first solo institutional exhibition by Haroun Hayward, presenting a vibrant new body of work inspired by the Sussex landscape. Blending influences from abstract expressionism, rave culture and textile traditions, the exhibition offers a bold contemporary response to British landscape painting, running alongside British Landscapes A Sense of Place.
New Film Releases
The Devil Wears Prada 2 (1st May), I Love Boosters (22nd May) & Finding Emily (22nd May)
Antique Fairs & Markets
Portobello Yard - Every Saturday
Auctions
Dreweatts, Lifetimes in Design: The Collections of Christopher Smallwood & Niall Hobhouse - 13th May
Wimbledon Auctions, The May Auction Of Fine Art And Antiques To Include Local Estate Contents - 26th May
Comments