London in May: Your Essential Guide to Weather, What to Do, and Why It’s the Perfect Time to Visit
Preparing for a trip to the UK capital? Wondering when to visit London to enjoy its beauty? You can’t go wrong with May! May is the month that really gets London going, with the perfect combination of warm weather, flowering gardens, and plenty of open-air activities. This thorough London travel guide for May will include all the information you need to be aware of, ranging from the average London in May weather to the best things to do in London during May.
Most tourists wonder, “Is May a good time to visit London?” And our response is a definitive YES! When spring is in full bloom and summer is about to begin, May is in a wonderful balance. You get to miss the crowds of July and August when tourists are most but still have lovely days perfect for tourism and discovery.
Understanding London in May Weather: Expect Delightful Days
Let’s talk about the most crucial aspect for any traveler: the weather. The London in May weather is generally mild and enjoyable, making it an excellent time for walking around and experiencing the city.
- Temperatures: You can expect average daytime temperatures to range from 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F). While it’s not scorching hot, it’s certainly warm enough for comfortable outdoor activities. Evenings can be cooler, dropping to around 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F), so a light jacket or sweater is advisable.
- Sun: Sunshine: Typically sees a rise in sunshine hours over previous spring months. You will find yourself getting approximately 6-7 hours of sunshine per day per day, providing enough time to observe London’s well-known sites drenched in natural light.
- Rainfall: London may be renowned for its random drizzle, but May usually experiences moderate rain. You would typically have around 8-10 wet days during the month, but the showers tend to be light instead of heavy rain that lingers. It never hurts to carry a small umbrella or a lightweight waterproof coat, just in case!
- Daylight Hours: Perhaps the largest advantage of traveling to London in May is the longer daylight. The sun comes up early (around 5:30 AM) and goes down late (around 8:30 PM by the month’s end), providing ample opportunity to walk about and take in the city’s attractions well into the night.
London May Packing Tip: Layering is the key! Light sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, walking shoes, a light raincoat or trench coat, and maybe a scarf for chilly nights. Don’t forget your sunglasses for those sunny days!
Top Things to Do in London in May: Embrace the Outdoors and Festivities
With the pleasant weather, things to do in London in May often involve outdoor activities, vibrant festivals, and enjoying the city’s stunning parks and gardens. Here’s a comprehensive list of ideas for your London travel guide for May:
- Discover London’s Royal Parks and Gardens: May is the time when London’s parks are in their most magnificent.
- Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens: Rowboat hire on the Serpentine, walk along lovely flower beds, or see Kensington Palace.
- Regent’s Park: Where the lovely Queen Mary’s Rose Garden is simply gorgeous at full bloom in May. It also has ZSL London Zoo right next to it.
- Richmond Park: Renowned for its wild herds of deer and cityscape panoramas. Ideal for a long walk or cycle.
- James’s Park: Provides iconic panorama of Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, along with endearing resident pelicans.
- Chelesa Physic Garden: London’s oldest botanic garden, a tranquil gem ideal for a serene afternoon stroll.
- Attend World-Renowned Events: May hosts some of London’s most prestigious events.
- Chelsea Flower Show (Late May): This is the one garden event that everyone around the globe looks forward to. Although tickets tend to sell out weeks, even months, in advance and can be very expensive, the surrounding area of Chelsea is charged up with everyone from local neighborhood shops festooning their windows with flowers. Even without going in, it’s a great time to spend in the neighborhood.
- FA Cup Final (Wembley Stadium): For any soccer fan, this classic cup final is one of the top sporting events. Double-check dates and availability of tickets in advance.
- Pimlico Road Garden Party (Early May): Usually taking place on the same weekend as Chelsea Flower Show, this free event turns the streets into an outdoor party with florists, designers, food stalls, and music.
- Enjoy Outdoor Sightseeing and Tours:
- Open-Top Bus Tours: A great way to view lots of the sights such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey in comfort. The nice weather makes it even better.
- River Thames Cruises: Explore London in a new way with a cruise along the Thames. Most offer anything from short sightseeing excursions to dinner cruises.
- Walking Tours: Take a themed walking tour – from history tours to street art tours in neighborhoods such as Shoreditch. The good weather is ideal for walking around.
- Sky Garden: Reserve free advance tickets for spectacular panoramic views of London. It’s an indoor garden paradise up in the air above the city.
- The Shard: For the best panoramic view, go to The Shard. Pre-booking is advisable.
- Visit World-Class Museums and Galleries: While the weather is lovely, London’s museums are always a must-see.
- British Museum: House to world treasures such as the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.
- National Gallery: In Trafalgar Square, with masterworks from European artists.
- Tate Modern: For fans of modern art, situated on the South Bank.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): For art, design, and performance.
- Natural History Museum: Renowned for its dinosaur displays and beautiful architecture.
- Imperial War Museum: With profound insights into wars.
- Experience London’s Markets:
- Borrow Market: A gourmet haven featuring amazing street food, fresh produce, and gourmet treats. Ideal for lunch.
- Notting Hill’s Portobello Road Market is well-known for its antiques, retro clothing, and distinctive trinkets. The busiest days are Saturdays.
- Camden Market: An expansive marketplace renowned for international street food, distinctive presents, and alternative fashion.
- Catch a West End Show: London’s theatre scene is world-class. May is a great time to see a musical or play. Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.
- Explore Historic Palaces and Castles:
-
- Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The State Rooms are usually open later in the summer, but you can still admire the exterior.
- Tower of London: Discover centuries of history, from the Crown Jewels to the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters).
- Hampton Court Palace: A stunning Tudor palace easily accessible by train, with incredible gardens.
Is May a Good Time to Visit London for Families?
Yes, indeed! The mild weather of May in London is perfect for children’s families. Kids will love the endless family-friendly attractions:
- London Eye: A traditional city bird’s eye view.
- ZSL London Zoo: In Regent’s Park.
- Science Museum & Natural History Museum: Both have great interactive exhibits for children.
- The Harry Potter Studio Tour (Warner Bros. Studio Tour London): A fantasy day out for enthusiasts, although it’s just outside London and tickets need to be booked in advance.
- London Dungeon: Suitable for older children who like a little frightful fun.
London in May: Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
To make your London travel guide for May really useful, here are some additional tips:
- Book Accommodations in Advance: Although May is not peak summer season, it is a busy month, particularly around bank holidays and events such as the Chelsea Flower Show. Booking your accommodation or hotel early in advance is strongly advised to get better rates and availability.
- Use Public Transport: London’s public transport is first-rate. The Underground (Tube), the buses, and the trains are great ways to travel. Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment for convenience.
- Walk Wherever Possible: With the pleasant London in May weather, walking is usually the best way to absorb the atmosphere and find out-of-the-way places.
- Bank Holidays: May frequently has two Bank Holidays (early May and late May). These result in a lot of people having a long weekend, so attractions and public transport may be more crowded, and some of the smaller shops may have different hours. Plan in advance.
- Dine Outdoors: Enjoy the good weather by eating at one of London’s numerous restaurants that have outdoor seating or having a picnic in a park.
- Pre-book Popular Attractions: For popular attractions such as the Tower of London, London Eye, or particular theatre productions, pre-booking tickets online beforehand can save you time and often money.
Why London in May Stands Out
In addition to the ideal weather and infinite activities, London in May has a special allure. The city really comes alive with the explosion of color found in flowers on public displays and individual residences. There is an unmistakable feeling of anticipation in the atmosphere as Londoners celebrate the extended, sunnier days.
If you’re still wondering “is May a good time to visit London,” think of the benefits: smaller crowds than in summer, lovely temperatures for strolling, the loveliness of spring flowers, and a bumper calendar of events. It’s the perfect time for both first-timers and repeat visitors to enjoy the best that this wonderful city has to share.
So, grab your bags, get ready for beautiful walks, and prepare to fall in love with London in May! Whether you’re looking for ancient monuments, top-class museums, lively markets, or simply basking in the spirit, London in May guarantees an experience that you will never forget. Your handy London travel guide for May is ready – now go and have a great trip!
things to do in london in may
london in may
london travel guide for may
places to visit in london in may