Top things to do in London – May 2025

🇬🇧 VE Day 80: Commemorations Across London
On Monday, May 5, join the nation in marking 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. The day begins with a military procession from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace, featuring over 1,300 service members and veterans.The procession concludes with a flypast of 23 aircraft, including the Red Arrows. Public viewing is encouraged along The Mall, and communities are invited to host street parties as part of the Great British Food Festival. ​
Location: Grand procession from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace and an RAF flypast over The Mall.
Free

🎨 Arts & Culture Highlights

🖼️ Photo London at Somerset House
From May 15–18, Somerset House hosts the tenth edition of Photo London, showcasing over 300 works by more than 60 photographers. The fair features global galleries and a dynamic public program celebrating contemporary photography. ​
Location: Somerset House, WC2R 1LA
Standard Day Ticket: £32.00 Concession Ticket (Disabled, Student, Youth 13–17): £24.00 / Off-Peak Ticket (from 5:00 PM onwards): £20.00 / Disabled Companion Ticket & Child Ticket (Under 13): Free

🧵 London Craft Week (May 12–18)
Experience over 400 events across the city celebrating craftsmanship. Highlights include "Secret Ceramics" at Christie’s, traditional crafts at the V&A, and live sculpture demonstrations by Jess Wheeler. ​
Location: various locations over London MAP
Free - to around £30–£35

🏛️ V&A East Storehouse Opening (May 31)
The new V&A East Storehouse opens in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, offering unprecedented access to over half a million objects, including the David Bowie Centre. Visitors can explore conservation studios and view mini curated displays. ​
Location : V&A East Storehouse, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, E20 3AX
Free

🎶 Music & Festivals

🎤 Wide Awake Festival – May 23
Held at Brockwell Park, this independent festival features underground music acts like Kneecap, CMAT, Peaches, and Daniel Avery. It's a must-attend for fans of alternative music.
Location : Brockwell Park, London SE24 9BJ
Start at £33.10, Early Entry (before 2pm) tickets are £66.41, and VIP tickets are £99.51, all including fees.

🛍️ Local Events & Community Gatherings


🛶 Canalway Cavalcade – May 3–5
Join the festivities at Little Venice, adjacent to Merchant Square, for London's biggest waterways festival. Enjoy boat parades, live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. ​
Location: W9 2PF and W2 6NE
Free

🧃 Clitterhouse Farm Night Market – May 3
From 4–8 PM, Clitterhouse Farm hosts a family-friendly night market featuring local crafts, food stalls, and live entertainment. It's a perfect way to spend your Saturday evening.​
Location : Clitterhouse Playing Fields, Claremont Road, NW2 1AP
Free

🛍️ Craft Festival at Queen Elizabeth Hall - May 12-8
Explore a diverse range of handmade crafts and artisanal goods at this festival, showcasing the best of local craftsmanship.​
Location : Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
Free

🛼 Free Roller Disco – May 3
Queen’s Park Community Council invites young people aged 11 and up to a free roller disco at the Beethoven Centre from 6–8 PM. Enjoy free skate hire, refreshments, and skills training in a safe, supervised environment. ​
Location : Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL
Free plus free skates

🎭 Artsdepot Highlights
🎭Broadway Reloaded - Pop edition - May 11 - from £31
Experience stunning choreography and singing, directed by Live 4 Dancing, in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.
🐨 The Koala Who Could – May 3–5 - from £14
Bring the family to see "The Koala Who Could" at the Pentland Theatre, a heartwarming tale for young audiences.Tickets can be purchased through Artsdepot.​
Location : Pentland Theatre, 5 Nether Street,, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 0GA

🦕 Natural History Museum Events - now until - Oct 25 - Non-members: £9.95, Members: £7.95. Suitable for visitors aged 10+
🌿 Visions of Nature : A mixed reality experience
Experience the future of the planet through a mixed reality headset, exploring eight ecosystems and seeing how human innovation has helped restore habitats and species, inspiring hope for a better tomorrow.
🌌 Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth? – Opens May 16 - from £14
Delve into the mysteries of the universe with this new exhibition exploring the possibilities of extraterrestrial life.
Location : Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD​

For more information on these events and to plan your visits, check the official websites and ticket platforms. Enjoy a vibrant and culturally rich May in London!