Oh, bank holidays in the UK are always a time to look forward to! It's a time to relax, unwind and enjoy some time off work or school. During these times, people can enjoy a range of activities, from outdoor picnics and barbeques to visiting the seaside, exploring historical landmarks or attending festivals and concerts.

And speaking of which, May is just around the corner, and we've got some exciting ones to celebrate including the coronation of King Charles III! This will be on the 8th of May and the day will mark a significant event in British history, so there's bound to be celebrations and events held across the country to mark the occasion. We've also got the Early May Bank Holiday, which falls on the 1st of May, and the Spring Bank Holiday, which takes place on the 29th of May. So, whether you're planning to attend a parade, have a picnic in the park, or simply unwind with a good book, there's plenty of fun bank holiday things to do this season. Let’s dive right into those exciting activities!

Our Top 10 Things To Do This Bank Holiday Season

Get ready for an unforgettable bank holiday season because there are so many exciting things to do! Whether you want to explore new places, try out fun activities, or simply relax with loved ones, there's something for everyone. Here is a list of some fun bank holiday things to do.

Family Time

We all know how important family is and this is the time to take advantage of the time you have with them. So, how do you do this?

The Making of Harry Potter Tour

Visit the Warner Bros. Studios with your family and enjoy The Making of Harry Potter Tour! This magical experience takes you behind the scenes of the beloved film series, giving you a glimpse into the incredible world of Hogwarts. From exploring iconic sets to seeing authentic props and costumes up close, there's so much to discover. And the best part? You can even try your hand at casting spells and riding a broomstick! So, gather your loved ones and get ready for a day of enchantment and wonder on this amazing tour!

A picture of part of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter: bank holiday things to do

Camping in the garden

Spending time in the garden is one of the most exciting things to do, especially over the bank holiday! It's a great way to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and bond with loved ones. There are so many ways you can set up camp in your garden to make it even more fun and comfortable. You can create a cozy seating area with comfy chairs, cushions, and blankets or set up a picnic table with an umbrella to keep you shaded. For some extra fun, you can also set up a tent or a gazebo for some shade or as a place to nap. Don't forget to bring along some outdoor games like badminton or a football to keep the whole family entertained!

A picture of a family camping and flying paper planes in the garden

Time on Cutty Sark

If you’ve never heard of the Cutty Sark, well, you’re in for a treat! This iconic ship is a one-of-a-kind attraction that takes you back in time to the golden age of sailing. From exploring the ship's magnificent decks to learning about the history of maritime travel, there's so much to discover. You can also take part in interactive exhibits and activities, such as trying your hand at tying knots or steering the ship. And for those who love photography, the Cutty Sark provides a picturesque backdrop for some memorable family photos.

A picture of one side of the Cutty Sark: bank holiday things to do

A garden makeover

A fulfilling project to tackle as part of your bank holiday things to do would be to renovate your garden. Adding new garden furniture, planting fresh flowers or even building a new deck can make a huge difference to the look and feel of your outdoor space. And it's an activity that the whole family can get involved in, whether it's choosing new plants to add some colour, assembling furniture, or simply enjoying some refreshments together while admiring your progress.

A picture of a gentleman tending to his garden

Catch a film or a theatre show

There's no shortage of fantastic shows and films to catch around the UK this coming May! Whether you're a fan of musicals, family-friendly shows or outdoor cinema, there's something for everyone. For those who love musicals, why not catch the award-winning production of "The Book of Mormon" in London's West End, or the beloved classic "Grease" at various venues across the UK? Families with young children can enjoy a variety of shows, such as "Disney on Ice Presents Find Your Hero" and "The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show". And for those who want to enjoy a unique cinematic experience, there are plenty of outdoor cinemas to choose from, including Luna Cinema, Rooftop Film Club, and The Drive In. 

A picture of people in a movie theatre

The Great Outdoors

When you think about the bank holiday season, what comes to mind? For some people, they think tranquillity, relaxation, time at home. For others, their minds go outdoors, and they start cooping up some outdoor activities. If you’re the latter, here are some exciting outdoor bank holiday things for you to do.

Royal Parks

If you're looking for a beautiful outdoor space to explore this bank holiday, why not check out the many stunning royal parks in the UK? Each park has its own unique charm and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Kensington Gardens, for example, is a lush green oasis located in the heart of London. It's home to the stunning Kensington Palace, as well as the beautiful Italian Gardens and the serene Round Pond. St James's Park is another popular destination for those looking to spend some time outdoors. It's located just a stone's throw away from Buckingham Palace and is known for its beautiful lake, picturesque views of London, and resident pelicans.

Greenwich Park, located in southeast London, is another must-visit park for nature lovers. It's home to the famous Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian, which marks the line that divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth.

An aerial view picture of Greenwich Park in London: bank holiday things to do

London Gardens

If you love nature and being in the garden, then exploring some of the UK's most stunning gardens can be one of the wonderful bank holiday things to do. Blenheim Palace and Gardens is one such destination. Located in Oxfordshire, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 2000 acres of stunning gardens, including a beautiful water terrace, a secret garden, and the magnificent Great Lake.

Another must-visit garden is the RHS Wisley, located in Surrey. This beautiful garden spans over 240 acres and is home to a diverse range of plant species, including a stunning rose garden, a rock garden, and a glasshouse filled with exotic plants from around the world.

For those visiting Belfast, the Botanic Gardens is a must-see destination. This Victorian-era garden is located in the heart of the city and is known for its beautiful rose gardens, exotic palm house, and stunning tropical ravine.

Alfresco Dining

There’s a plethora of opportunities for alfresco dining, making it the perfect way to enjoy the bank holiday. For those looking for a fancy restaurant with a fantastic ambience and beautiful furniture, there's no shortage of options. For example, the Ivy Chelsea Garden in London offers a stunning outdoor terrace where you can dine in style surrounded by beautiful flowers and greenery. Another great option is the River Cafe in Hammersmith, where you can enjoy Italian cuisine while sitting by the river Thames.

If you're looking for something more laid back, there are plenty of beer gardens and rooftop bars throughout the UK. The Skylight Rooftop in London is a great choice, with its stunning views of the city, delicious drinks, and ample seating. For beer lovers, the Bargehouse in London's Southbank is a popular destination, with its relaxed atmosphere and selection of craft beers.

If you're after a picnic, there are so many beautiful spots to choose from. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh is a popular choice, with its stunning gardens and picturesque views. The Cotswolds also has some beautiful picnic spots, including the Hidcote Manor Gardens, where you can enjoy your lunch surrounded by beautiful flowers and serene countryside.

A picture of people enjoying some food in the garden

Historical Sites

The UK is home to some of the world's most incredible historic sites, and spending the bank holiday exploring them is an unforgettable experience. One of the most iconic is the Tower of London, where you can explore over a thousand years of history, including the crown jewels and the famous ravens. Another popular destination is Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments. Here, you can learn about the fascinating history of the stones, including how they were transported and erected over 4,500 years ago.

Winchester is another must-visit for history buffs, with its rich heritage dating back to the Roman era. Another option would be Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. This is a former royal residence. Here, you can explore the rooms where Queen Victoria and Prince Albert once lived.

A picture of Osborne House: bank holiday things to do

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it, folks! A whole bunch of exciting bank holiday things to do. From exploring historic sites and gardens to dining alfresco and catching a show, there's something for everyone. Whether you're spending time with family or enjoying some well-deserved me-time, this list has got you covered. So, grab your picnic basket, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to make some memories. Happy bank holiday!