Is May a good month to visit London?
- Yes. In my experience, May is maybe the best month to visit the city. You get the visual payoff of spring greenery and significantly longer daylight hours without the overwhelming crowd density of July or the damp chill of March. It is the sweet spot for travelers who value outdoor exploration.
- Weather: Expect mild, changeable conditions. While the days are longer, the air is still crisp, and you must prepare for sudden rain.
- Crowds: Moderate for most of the month. You will notice a significant spike in visitors during the two bank holiday weekends, but midweek remains manageable.
- Prices: Higher than winter but generally lower than the summer peak. Flight and hotel rates begin to climb steadily as the month progresses.
- Daylight: This is a major advantage. You will enjoy roughly 15 to 16 hours of daylight, with sunsets stretching from 8:20 pm at the start of May to 9:00 pm by the end.
London Weather in May
Typical Conditions and Planning
- Temperature Range: I find that the averages can be deceptive. While the high officially sits around 16°C (61°F), a sunny May afternoon in London frequently climbs into the low 20s°C (70°F), making it feel like proper summer in the parks. The real factor for you is the volatility; that 7°C (45°F) evening low means you will transition from a t-shirt at 3:00 PM to needing a sweater or jacket the moment you step into the shade or the sun dips.
- Rainfall Patterns: You should expect about 10 rainy days across the month, totaling roughly 57mm of precipitation. Showers are often brief but can be heavy, so a plan for indoor alternatives is essential.
- The Evening Feel: Once the sun sets, the temperature drops quickly. If you are dining outdoors or walking the South Bank, you will need a proper outer layer.
- What to Pack: I recommend a waterproof shell, a light wool sweater, and comfortable shoes that can handle wet pavements. Sunglasses are necessary for the bright spring afternoons, but always keep a compact umbrella in your bag.
Crowds and the Bank Holiday Strategy
Understanding the Monthly Rhythm
- May is not a uniform month for crowd density. Most midweek dates are quite pleasant for sightseeing, but England and Wales observe two bank holidays in May. In 2026, these fall on May 4 and May 25.
- The Bank Holiday Effect: During these long weekends, you will face busier trains leaving the city and a surge in domestic tourism. I find that restaurant bookings become much harder to secure, and some smaller, independent businesses may operate with reduced hours.
- Travel Tip: If your schedule allows, visit major landmarks like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey on a Tuesday or Wednesday to avoid the weekend rush.
May vs Other Months
May vs April
- April is often plagued by a lingering winter bite and the frequent “April showers.” By May, the probability of pleasant afternoons increases, and the city’s parks reach their full, lush potential. If you are choosing between the two, I always suggest waiting for May. You can see more details on my London for First Timers guide.
May vs June
- June is the official start of the high season. While the weather in June is only marginally warmer than late May, the prices for accommodation usually jump significantly. By visiting in late May, you capture the same long evenings while often saving on your hotel bill.
Best May Experiences in London
The Chelsea Flower Show
- This is the premier event of the month, run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). It is a world-class display of garden design and artistry. Tickets are strictly limited and must be purchased well in advance via the RHS website.
- The Free Alternative: If you cannot secure tickets, I highly recommend walking through the surrounding streets for “Chelsea in Bloom.” Local retailers transform their shopfronts with incredible floral installations that are free for everyone to see.
Parks, Gardens, and Open Air Theatre
- Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: The season typically begins in May. There is nothing quite like watching a performance as the sun sets behind the trees.
- Kew Gardens: The Temperate House and the outdoor arboretum are spectacular this month. It is a full-day commitment but worth the trip for the spring blossoms.
- Richmond Park: I personally love the Isabella Plantation in May. The azaleas and rhododendrons create a neon-bright landscape that feels worlds away from central London.
- Hampstead Heath: On a clear May evening, the view from Parliament Hill across the skyline is unbeatable.
5-Day London in May Itinerary
A Framework for Your Visit
- Day 1: History and Bloomsbury: Spend your morning at the British Museum before the crowds peak. In the afternoon, walk through the historic squares of Bloomsbury and enjoy a late lunch in a traditional pub.
- Day 2: Royal Parks and Chelsea: Start at St. James’s Park to see the flower beds near Buckingham Palace. Spend the afternoon in Chelsea exploring the King’s Road and the Chelsea in Bloom displays.
- Day 3: South Bank and West End: Walk the Thames Path from Westminster Bridge to London Bridge. In the evening, head to the West End for a theater performance.
- Day 4: The City and Markets: Visit the Tower of London early. Afterward, explore the modern architecture of the City and grab lunch at Borough Market. Finish with a sunset view at the Garden at 120.
- Day 5: Day Trip or Kew: Take the District Line out to Kew Gardens or board a train from Paddington or Waterloo for a day trip to Windsor or Oxford to see the English countryside in spring.
Where to Stay in London in May
Choosing the Right Neighborhood
- In May, I prioritize areas near major greenery or those with excellent transport links for day trips. You can find a full breakdown of areas on my London neighborhood map.
- Bloomsbury: Perfect for museum lovers and those who want a central but bookish atmosphere. Stay at the Kimpton Fitzroy, which sits right across from the Russell Square Tube station for easy Piccadilly Line access.
- The South Bank: The best choice for families. It is walkable and puts you near the London Eye and aquarium. I recommend the Park Plaza Westminster for its large rooms and proximity to the river.
- Mayfair: Ideal for luxury and park access. The Connaught is a legendary choice that puts you steps from Hyde Park’s spring beauty.
- King’s Cross/St. Pancras: This is the best-connected hub for those planning day trips or arriving via Eurostar. The St. Pancras Renaissance is an architectural masterpiece that makes transit effortless.
- For more options and area advice, see my guide on the best places to stay in London.
Practical Transport and Rooftops
Moving Around and Looking Down
- Payment: Do not bother with paper tickets. Use contactless payment or an Oyster card for the best rates. Be aware that London buses do not accept cash.
- Rooftop Views: May evenings are perfect for free viewpoints like the Sky Garden or the Garden at 120. The temperatures are usually comfortable enough for outdoor observation decks. I must emphasize that Sky Garden requires booking weeks in advance, even though it is free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is May a good month for families?
- Yes, it is excellent because the weather is mild enough for children to walk between attractions without getting too cold or overheated. There are many kid-friendly properties listed in my best hotels in London for families guide that are central to the parks.
Is London expensive in May compared with summer?
- May is generally more affordable than July or August, but you will pay more than you would in the winter. It is a popular month for business travel and domestic weekenders, so early booking is key to finding value.
Should I book Chelsea Flower Show tickets in advance?
- Absolutely, as tickets often sell out months before the gates open. If you miss out, remember that the Chelsea in Bloom displays are a fantastic, free way to enjoy the floral atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Is May warm enough for outdoor dining and river cruises?
- It is generally pleasant for lunch outdoors, but I suggest bringing a jacket for dinner or a boat trip. The breeze on the Thames can feel much cooler than the air in the city streets.
What are the best parks and gardens in May?
- Kew Gardens is the gold standard for spring, but I also recommend the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park. For something more central, St. James’s Park offers the best-maintained floral displays with a backdrop of the royal palaces.
How do bank holidays affect my trip?
- You will see more crowds and higher hotel prices on those specific weekends. I suggest using those days for park visits rather than trying to visit popular museums or using regional trains, which will be crowded.
What time is sunset in London in May?
- The sun sets around 8:20 pm at the start of the month and moves to roughly 9:00 pm by the end. This gives you a massive amount of evening light for photography and outdoor walks.
Do I need to stay near Heathrow?
- I usually advise against it unless you have a dawn departure. You are better off staying in a central neighborhood, though you can check my Heathrow Airport hotels list if you’re set on staying at the airport.
Are the museums busy in May?
- They are busy but not at peak capacity. To save time, always book your timed entry slot online for the British Museum and the Natural History Museum before you arrive.
Is the Tube reliable in May?
- The Tube is the backbone of the city, but you should check for planned maintenance on weekends. I find that walking between central neighborhoods is often faster and much more scenic in the spring.
What should I wear for a West End show?
- There is no formal dress code for most theaters, so smart-casual is fine. However, theaters can be drafty or very warm, so layers are your best friend once you are inside.
Can I walk from the City to the West End?
- Yes, it is a very pleasant walk that takes about 30 to 40 minutes along the river or through Fleet Street. In May, this walk is one of the best ways to see the contrast between Roman history and modern skyscrapers.
Is it easy to find gluten-free or vegan food?
- London is one of the best cities in the world for dietary requirements. Almost every restaurant in areas like Soho and Fitzrovia will have clear labeling and excellent plant-based options.
Are the markets good in May?
- They are fantastic. Borough Market and Columbia Road Flower Market are particularly vibrant this month as seasonal British produce and spring flowers are at their peak.
How many days should I spend in London?
- I recommend at least five days to see the core sights and enjoy a park or two. This also gives you the flexibility to adjust your plans if you hit a particularly rainy spring day.
About Santorini Dave