We all love a Bank Holiday weekend, but sometimes the hardest part is deciding how to spend it. If you’re stuck for ideas, look no further! Whether you’re planning a chilled Saturday or an action-packed Monday, here are 12 fantastic activities to make the most of your May Bank Holiday.
What is a Bank Holiday?
In the UK, a Bank Holiday is a public holiday during which many workplaces close, giving people the opportunity to relax and enjoy a day off. As the name suggests, banks are the first to shut their doors, and many other businesses follow suit. This means extra time to spend with friends, and family, or to simply recharge.
In May, we have two Bank Holidays, both landing on a Monday, resulting in a well-loved three-day weekend. Whether you’re game for a live music night or an art gallery stroll, this scene has got it all – from rooftop bars to picturesque parks.
When are the Bank Holidays in 2024?
In May 2024, there are two Bank Holidays to mark in your calendar:
- May 6th: Early May Bank Holiday
- May 27th: Spring Bank Holiday
Let’s dive into 12 awesome ways to spend these much-anticipated long weekends!
1. Enjoy a Picnic in the Park
The simplicity of a picnic never fails to impress. Pack a blanket, some delicious food, and your favourite drinks, and head to one of London’s many beautiful parks like Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, or Richmond Park. Laziness has never felt so lovely. Grab a blanket, some good eats, and stellar company – a sunny day is the perfect excuse for a picnic. Bring along games like frisbee or badminton, or just relax and soak up the sun with a good book. If you’re outside of London, the UK offers countless green spaces perfect for a peaceful day in nature.
2. Visit a Local Food Market
For the foodies out there, food markets offer a delightful mix of street food, fresh produce, and unique culinary experiences. Iconic spots like Borough Market or Camden Market in London are bustling with stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses to gourmet burgers and international cuisine. Consider a food market your culinary wake-up call – where flavors and textures mingle, and your taste buds regain their vigor, ready to devour the next food adventure that awaits you back in your kitchen. Even outside of London, most towns host weekend food markets where you can enjoy fresh, local delicacies. You’ll hardly break the bank, and the thrill of discovery is all yours for the taking.
3. Book a Relaxing Spa Treatment
There’s no better time than a long weekend to treat yourself to a day of pampering. Whether it’s a luxurious full-body massage, an invigorating facial, or a soak in a hydrotherapy pool, a visit to the spa is the ultimate indulgence. London has plenty of high-end spas, such as the Bulgari Spa in Knightsbridge, or more affordable options like The Spa at The Landmark London. Even if you don’t want to splurge, there are budget-friendly massages available at local wellness centers. Book yourself in for a little “me time” and leave feeling completely rejuvenated.
4. Dine at a New Restaurant
Take the opportunity to explore new places to eat. Whether it’s that quirky pub you found on TikTok or a new restaurant you’ve been meaning to try, the May Bank Holiday is a great time to get out and enjoy some amazing food. Shoreditch, Soho, and Covent Garden are packed with trendy spots, offering everything from cozy brunches to elegant dinners. If you’re outside of London, check out local gastro-pubs or family-run restaurants for a more intimate dining experience. What a relief – no cooking duties for the day!
5. Explore a Museum
Museums are fantastic for a bit of culture, and many offer free entry. Whether you want to marvel at the dinosaur skeletons in the Natural History Museum, explore ancient artifacts at the British Museum, or discover modern art at the Tate Modern, there’s something for everyone. Kids love museums because they’re not just about stuffed animals and old artifacts – they’re about interactive adventures that spark imagination and curiosity. Whether you’ve got a few hours to kill or a budding curiosity, Bank Holiday events lay the groundwork for a discovery-rich afternoon steeped in art, history, and science.
6. Go on a Pub Crawl
Bank Holiday weekends are the perfect excuse to gather your friends and go on a pub crawl. Kick back in a lively beer garden to start your afternoon, then hop from one local watering hole to the next, stumbling upon surprises along the way. Popular areas like Camden, Soho, and Notting Hill are perfect for pub hopping, or you can create your route in your local neighbourhood. A spare day means one thing: an impromptu cocktail party, a refresher course in small talk, and a blissful reboot. Just remember to pace yourself!
7. Attend a Paint and Sip Session
Why not try something creative this May Bank Holiday? Prime Pass offers fun paint and sip sessions in London where you can unwind with a glass of wine (or a non-alcoholic drink) and let your artistic side shine. No experience is necessary, and under the guidance of a talented instructor, you’ll leave with your very own masterpiece. Whether you go solo, bring friends, or make it a date night, paint and sip sessions are a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend a few hours. Want to know what caught our attention? This. Take your membership to the next level with Prime Pass, where the benefits just keep rolling in. Save your spot for a creative escapade that’ll make your local event calendar pop – be it an afternoon or evening of pure imagination.
8. Take a Trip to the Coast
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to one of the UK’s beautiful beaches. Coastal towns like Brighton, Whitstable, and Bournemouth are just a short train ride away and offer stunning sea views, fresh seafood, and quaint seaside charm. Spend your day soaking up the sun, exploring Beachside shops, and treating yourself to an ice cream (or two). Trading buildings for beachside views and the sounds of seagulls for those honking horns, a coastal escape is the perfect prescription for stress relief.
9. Swim in a Lido
If a beach getaway isn’t in the cards, why not take a dip in one of London’s many lidos? Places like the Hampstead Heath Ponds or Brockwell Lido provide the perfect way to cool off during warmer weather. If you prefer something more serene, head to the natural ponds for a swim surrounded by greenery. Beat the summer heat at a lido, where you can cool off and plan your day with ease thanks to pre-booked sessions. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
10. Visit a Zoo or Wildlife Park
For families, a day at the zoo is always a hit. Right while bustling London lies a surprisingly tranquil escape – the historic zoo in Regent’s Park, where roaring lions, agile monkeys, and gentle penguins have been captivating audiences for nearly two centuries. or Set amidst the tranquil hills of Bedfordshire, Whipsnade Zoo’s gates swing open to reveal a realm teeming with life and excitement – don’t miss it! If you want to see some wild animals, head to a zoo or wildlife park, where lions with their shaggy manes and penguins with their tuxedo feathers are waiting to amaze you. For kids, a trip to the zoo or wildlife park means more than just gazing at animals – it’s a chance to engage with nature, ask questions, and learn from experts during informative talks and feeding demonstrations. Who knows what wonders you’ll discover – maybe a towering giraffe or a playful monkey – all while getting an inside look at the important work being done to preserve their habitats. On a Bank Holiday, swap city streets for zoo paths and treat your family to an action-packed day out, meeting fascinating animals up close and making the most of quality time together.
11. Cycle through the Countryside
If you’re looking for an active Bank Holiday, rent a bike and head out to the countryside. Scenic areas like the Cotswolds, New Forest, or Richmond Park offer lovely cycle paths where you can enjoy fresh air and picturesque landscapes. Spin your wheels and discover secrets on a bike ride, where every pedal stroke gets you moving and grooving. Take a cue from the great outdoors and fill a picnic basket with goodies to munch on while you meander, stopping to drink in those sublime views.
12. Attend a Live Event
Bank Holidays often bring a host of live events—from music festivals to outdoor theatre and comedy shows. Instead of staying cooped up, get the scoop on neighbourhood events – from foot-stomping concerts to savoury food festivals – and join the party! Whether it’s a jazz night, a food and wine festival, or a street performance, attending a live event adds a unique and vibrant experience to your weekend plans. Make sure to book tickets in advance, as these events tend to fill up fast!
Book a Session with Prime Pass Today!
If you want to have a great time in London with Your Friends, a Team Building session with Prime Pass is the way to go. Paint along with a helpful instructor with a glass of Prosecco in hand and unleash that artistic flair you’ve always possessed.
Get your gang together and book a Team Building session in London.
