Things to Do in United Kingdom in May

May Weather in United Kingdom

18°C (64°F) High Temp

9°C (48°F) Low Temp

99 mm (3.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak spring bloom season - countryside erupts in bluebells, hawthorn blossoms, and vibrant green landscapes that last only 3-4 weeks
Longest daylight hours (16+ hours by late May) mean extended sightseeing time and golden hour photography until 8:30pm
Bank Holiday weekends (early and late May) create festival atmosphere with outdoor markets, beer gardens opening, and extended opening hours
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 20-30% less than peak summer months while weather is increasingly reliable

Considerations

Unpredictable weather requires constant backup planning - sunny mornings can turn to heavy showers within hours
Bank Holiday weekends mean domestic crowds at popular attractions and higher weekend accommodation prices
Still too cool for comfortable outdoor dining or swimming - many coastal activities remain limited

Best Activities in May

Royal London Walking Tours

May's mild temperatures (18°C/64°F highs) and long daylight hours make this perfect for exploring royal palaces and parks. Spring gardens at Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace are at peak bloom. Morning tours avoid afternoon showers that typically start around 2pm.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead, especially for weekends. Tours typically cost £25-40 per person. Choose morning departures (9-11am) to avoid afternoon rain. Look for operators offering indoor alternatives at Westminster Abbey or Tower of London.

Cotswolds Village Tours

May transforms the Cotswolds into postcard perfection with blooming gardens, green rolling hills, and comfortable walking weather. Villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Campden are stunning without summer's coach tour crowds. Cool mornings (9°C/48°F) warm to perfect sightseeing temperatures.

Booking Tip: Day tours from London typically cost £45-75. Book midweek to avoid Bank Holiday crowds. Choose tours with indoor stops at historic pubs or churches for shower shelter. Return by 5pm to avoid evening traffic.

Edinburgh Castle and Old Town Exploration

Scotland's capital shines in May with festival season beginning and castle grounds in full bloom. Cooler temperatures make the steep Royal Mile climbs comfortable, and spring weather reduces the infamous Edinburgh wind. Perfect month before summer festival crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Castle tickets typically cost £19-25, book online 5-7 days ahead. Combine with underground vaults tours for rainy day backup. Morning visits (9-11am) offer best photography light and smallest crowds.

Lake District Hiking and Scenic Tours

May offers the Lake District at its most beautiful - cascading waterfalls from spring rain, lush green fells, and comfortable hiking temperatures. Trails are accessible but not crowded, and accommodation is reasonably priced before peak season. Perfect visibility for mountain photography.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost £35-55, full-day £65-90. Book accommodations in Windermere or Keswick 2-3 weeks ahead for Bank Holiday weekends. Choose tours with multiple short walks rather than long hikes due to changeable weather.

Bath and Stonehenge Day Trips

May's mild weather makes outdoor exploration of Stonehenge comfortable, while Bath's Georgian architecture glows in spring light. Roman Baths are perfect for cooler days, and surrounding Somerset countryside is beautifully green. Fewer crowds than summer months.

Booking Tip: Combined tours typically cost £55-85 from London. Book 10-14 days ahead, especially for weekend departures. Look for tours including Salisbury Cathedral as indoor weather backup. Audio guides essential at both sites.

Thames River and Greenwich Maritime Tours

Spring weather makes river cruises pleasant without summer's heat and crowds. Greenwich's parks are spectacular in May bloom, and maritime museums provide excellent rainy day alternatives. Tower Bridge and London Eye views are crystal clear in spring air.

Booking Tip: River cruises cost £15-30, observatory entry £16. Book morning departures for best weather and photography. Choose hop-on-hop-off services for flexibility during showers. Greenwich market perfect for lunch and shelter.

May Events & Festivals

Late May (typically final week)

Chelsea Flower Show

The world's most prestigious flower show showcases peak spring blooms and garden innovation. Five days of horticultural excellence with celebrity garden designers and rare plant exhibits. Advance booking essential.

Throughout May

Brighton Festival

England's largest arts festival transforms the seaside city with outdoor performances, art installations, and cultural events. Street performers, pop-up venues, and extended opening hours create vibrant atmosphere.

First and last Monday of May

May Bank Holiday Weekend Festivals

Long weekends (early and late May) bring outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and traditional May Day celebrations across the country. Village fetes, morris dancing, and maypole celebrations in countryside locations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood - essential for sudden downpours that last 30-45 minutes

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - cobblestones and wet surfaces are slippery

Layering pieces (cardigan, light fleece) for 9°C (48°F) mornings that warm to 18°C (64°F)

Compact umbrella - afternoon showers are frequent and unpredictable

Light scarf - useful for cool mornings and evening temperature drops

Quick-dry trousers or jeans - synthetic blends better than cotton in damp conditions

Sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 6 on clear days

Power bank - longer sightseeing days drain phone batteries faster

Small daypack with waterproof cover for day trips and sudden weather changes

Evening jacket for dining - restaurants and pubs can be cool in evenings

Insider Knowledge

Book train tickets 12 weeks in advance for 50% savings - May is when advance purchase windows open for summer travel

Visit National Trust properties midweek in May for half-price entry and access to private garden tours typically reserved for members

Pub gardens officially reopen in May - locals flock outside at first sunshine, creating authentic British social experiences

Many historic houses open seasonal gardens only in May-September - this is your first chance to see private estate grounds

Avoid These Mistakes

Underpacking for weather changes - tourists get soaked because they check morning forecasts and ignore afternoon rain predictions

Booking only outdoor activities - May weather requires indoor backup plans like museums, covered markets, or historic buildings

Assuming all summer opening hours apply - many attractions extend hours gradually through May, check current schedules