28 Cool Things To Do In London This Weekend: 1-4 May

Can you believe it's already the middle of spring? Neither can we, and we can't wait for all the fun things that May will bring.

But what to do in London this weekend? Sadie Sink is on the West End, and there's a Nashville-themed throwdown, too. If you're looking for the weekend's family-friendly things to do, then check out the Disney Pixar experience at Wembley Park.

Check back each week to uncover the best things to do in London this weekend and book on DesignMyNight, from free things to do in London this weekend to the most luxurious and unusual.

What Are The Best Things Happening In London This Weekend?

1. Make The Most Of May Bank Holiday

• When: 4th May 2026
• Location: various across London
• Price: from free
• We recommend for: activities, enjoying sunshine 

The early May bank holiday calls for either rest or some extra weekend plans to make the most of your time off. If it's the latter, then you'll love our guide, which includes everything from outdoor swimming to top rooftop bars with excellent views.

We've also got German-themed bottomless brunches, futuristic bingo, cocktail masterclasses, and garden parties. 

Discover Your May Bank Holiday Inspiration Here. 

Perhaps a hip hip orchestra brunch is on your May bank holiday bingo card. 

2. Get Down To A Lil' Niashville BBQ Night

• When: 1st May 2026
  
• Location: Barley Mow Passage, Chiswick, W4 4PH
  
• Price: from £29.70 per person
• We recommend for: country music lovers, dancing 

For something a bit different this weekend, Lil’ Nashville is bringing a slice of Tennessee to West London. Set in Chiswick, this honky-tonk-inspired night recreates the energy of Nashville’s famous Broadway strip, with live bands and artists playing modern country hits and crowd-pleasing covers.

Expect line dancing sessions led by US performers The Country Roses, who’ll walk you through the moves before the dancefloor fills up. From there, it rolls into an evening with DJs spinning country anthems from the 90s through to now.

Book Tickets To Lil' Nashville Here. 

It's all about live country music and BBQ food.

3. Head To The V&A East For The Music Is Black: A British Story

• When: until 3rd January 2027
  
• Location: V&A East Museum. 107 Carpenters Road, E20 2AR
  
• Price: from £22.50
• We recommend for: music lovers, history 

A powerful celebration of sound, identity and cultural legacy, The Music is Black: A British Story charts 125 years of Black music-making in Britain with depth and dynamism.

Spanning four continents and 12 decades, this landmark exhibition explores how Black British artists have shaped and reshaped the nation’s cultural landscape, weaving together stories of excellence, resistance, resilience and joy. From underground movements to mainstream influence, it’s an essential, immersive tribute to the rhythms that have defined modern Britain.

Book Your Tickets To The Music Is Black: A British Story Here.

Take a step back in time through 125 years of Black music-making in Britain.

4. Visit An Unusual Museum

• When: various dates and times depending on the museum
• Location: museums across the capital
• Price: depends on the museum
• We recommend for: quirky art displays and history

It's no secret that London is home to some of the best museums in the world, but if you're bored of all the usual suspects (though we know you really can't go wrong with the Natural History)? We've got just the thing. 

These seven weird and wonderful museums are a great way to spend your Saturday or Sunday (especially if you're looking for free events in London this weekend). Whether you fancy checking out the Freud Museum in Hampstead or heading to Bethnal Green to discover a collection of curiosities throughout history, this list will sort you out. - Kiera Chapman

Explore More Unusual Museums Here.

Experience the whacky and wild collections that London has to offer.

5. Drink And Dine At One Of These Amazing Bottomless Brunches

• When: usually held on Saturdays and Sundays
• Location: locations across London
• Price: prices vary depending on the brunch
• We recommend for: tasty cocktails and delicious dishes

Name something you'd rather do on the weekend that a bottomless brunch...we'll wait. Unlimited drinks are now a weekend staple, and mean you can keep track of your pennies without overspending. 

There's a whole host of bottomless brunches available across the city, with everything from ABBA-themed affairs in Covent Garden to multi award-winning brunches entirely centered around Eastenders star, Pat Butcher. Whatever you're looking for, there's something for everyone.

Book A Bottomless Brunch Here.

London has everything from Taylor Swift bottomless brunches to ABBA.

6. Experience A Spellbinding Trip To Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

• When: all weekend
• Location: 127 Hackney Road, Unit 11, Hackney, E2 8GY
  
• Price: tickets from £49.50
  
• We recommend for: immersive experiences and quirky cocktails

The world's first wizarding prison bar is opening its doors this weekend. From the creators of Alcotraz, Moonshine Saloon and Avora, this brand-new immersive experience will see you conversing with dark arts wizards and prison guards from the wizarding world. 

Hexmoor is an immersive theatrical experience combining film-like set designs, three amazing cocktails and magical special effects that are set to blow you away. And you even get your own prison jumpsuit to fully get into character. 

Book Tickets To Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison Here.

Step inside the magical world of Hexmoor prison for the ultimate immersive cocktail experience.

7. Whisk Up A Storm At Big Bakes

• When: various dates
• Location: 38 Tooting High Street, SW17 0RG and Lee Street, E84ED
  
• Price: from £32.40 per person
• We recommend for: double dates, group activities, and baking fans 

Channel your inner pastry chef at The Big London Bake, South and East London's award-winning answer to the ultimate baking challenge. Perfect for those with a competitive streak and a love for sweets, this 90-minute extravaganza pairs you with a baking bench buddy to whip up, decorate, and present a masterpiece based on a monthly rotating theme.

With all pre-measured ingredients, professional instructions, and a Head Baker on hand to guide your station, the experience is designed to be entirely stress-free - right down to the fact that they even handle the washing up. 

Book Big Bakes In London Here.

Get your bake on in South and East London.

8. Watch Romeo & Juliet At The Harold Pinter Theatre

• When: until 20th June 2026
• Location: The Harold Pinter Theatre, Panton Street, SW1Y 4DN
• Price: from £20 per ticket
• We recommend for: theatre lovers

If you’re after some culture this weekend, Shakespeare’s most famous love story is returning to the West End in a major new revival at the Harold Pinter Theatre. This fresh take on Romeo and Juliet stars Sadie Sink (Stranger Things) as Juliet alongside Noah Jupe (A Quiet Place) as Romeo, both making their West End debuts. Directed by Robert Icke, the production promises a bold, emotionally charged spin on Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy of young love and fatal rivalry.

You can look forward to a gripping evening of theatre clocking in at 2 hours 40 minutes (plus interval), with tickets starting from £20 for this strictly limited run.

Book Tickets For Romeo & Juliet Here.

Witness drama and spectacle with tickets to this play.

9. Throw Shapes At A Bottomless Hoedown Brunch

• When: Saturdays
• Location: Tequila Mockingbird Covent Garden, 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD
• Price: from £52.92 per person
  
• We recommend for: a fun time dancing, brunch enthusiasts, a weekend with friends

Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for a Saturday like no other, as Tequila Mockingbird transforms your weekend into a high-octane Bottomless Hoedown Brunch. You can look forward to a two-hour celebration of boot-scootin’ burlesque and dazzling drag performances, complete with country classic sing-alongs and a competitive round of Hoedown Bingo.

Indulge in 90 minutes of bottomless service, featuring everything from margaritas and pornstar martinis to ice-cold beers and bubbly, while teetotalers are well-catered for with signature mocktails like the Spring Fling and Prom Queen. There'll be plenty of pizza, too. 

Grab Your Tickets To Tequila Mockingbird's Bottomless Hoedown Brunch Here. 

Saddle up for this brunch.

10. Enjoy Some Music At Sky Garden

• When: various dates
• Location: 1 Sky Garden Walk, City of London, EC3M 8AF
  
• Price: from £15.95 (includes a drink)
• We recommend for: date nights and brilliant views 

Elevate your weekend plans with Sky Garden’s Music Nights, an exclusive rooftop residency that pairs 360-degree skyline views with a curated soundtrack of live DJs and ALR Music performances.

Whether you’re looking for a high-energy night out with friends or a sophisticated date spot, the experience offers everything from standing access tickets, which include a welcome drink and panoramic vistas, to the ultra-premium VIP viewing platform for those seeking private service and an upgraded menu.

Book Your Tickets To Music Nights At Sky Garden Here. 

Pair epic vistas with live music. 

11. Catch An Iconic London Theatre Show

• When: matinees and evening performances from Friday to Sunday
• Location: theatres across London and the West End
• Price: prices vary depending on the show
• We recommend for: plays and musicals

London's West End is one of the most famous theatre destinations in the world, showcasing productions such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Hercules The Musical. 

Whether you're wanting to be transported through a family-friendly experience like Matilda The Musical, or fancy knowing more about Henry VIII's wives in SIX, then definitely book in for a brilliant show. - Kiera Chapman

Explore More Theatre Shows Here.

Now in its 26th year of running, The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre is perfect for you and the kids.

12. Do Aqua Aerobics or Yoga With Skyline Views

• When: various dates
• Where: 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, SW11 8BJ
• Price: from £27.50 per person
• Perfect for: unique exercise ideas and stunning vistas 

Designed by the visionary Jaime Hayon, art'otel London Battersea Power Station offers a cultural escape. This March, the hotel’s rooftop becomes a hub for wellness and leisure, kicking off with aqua aerobics sessions, followed by skyline yoga and breakfast for those looking to find zen above the city.

For a more melodic weekend treat, the hotel hosts afternoon tea with live music, providing the perfect blend of sophisticated dining and artistic atmosphere. Whether you're diving into the rooftop pool or enjoying the curated events, art'otel stands as one of the city’s hippest vantage points for food, fitness, and the arts.

Book art'otel London Battersea Power Station Here.

Head up to the roof for some yoga.

13. Catch Avenue Q

• When: until 29th August 2026
• Location: Shaftesbury Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2H 8DP
  
• Price: from £25 per person
• We recommend for: musical comedy fans

After more than two decades of cheeky laughs and cult-status songs, the hit musical Avenue Q is making a long-awaited return to the West End this spring at the Shaftesbury Theatre for a strictly limited run. The three-time Tony Award-winning show follows optimistic grad Princeton as he lands in a run-down New York apartment on Avenue Q, where a colourful cast of humans and puppets tackle grown-up problems like jobs, love and rent - with plenty of outrageous humour along the way.

Directed by original Broadway director Jason Moore, with puppetry by Rick Lyon, the irreverent cult classic promises infectious songs and fuzzy characters.

Book Your Tickets To Avenue Q Here.

Watch this mischievous musical.

14. Explore David Hockney: A Year In Normandie

• When: until 23rd August 2026
  
• Location: Serpentine North Gallery, W2 2AR
  
• Price: free
• We recommend for: art lovers 

David Hockney continues his lifelong obsession with how we see the world in his new Serpentine exhibition, A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts about Painting. The showstopper is undoubtedly the London debut of his 90-meter-long landscape frieze.

Drawing structural inspiration from the Bayeux Tapestry, the work unfolds like a cinematic loop of the French countryside. It’s a monumental exploration of perception that creates a seamless dialogue between the gallery walls and the lush scenery of Kensington Gardens just outside.

Book Your David Hockney: A Year In Normandie Tickets Here. 

David Hockney, A Year in Normandie (pictured), 2020-2021, composite iPad painting © David Hockney.

15. Embark On A Themed Cocktail Adventure

• When: Saturdays
• Location: 13 Kingly Court, Soho, W1B 5PW
• Price: from £62.64 per person
• We recommend for: cocktails, puzzles, and masterclasses 

Hidden beneath the streets in the delightfully theatrical world of Cahoots Underground,  Bootlegger Breakout is an immersive event that combines escape-room-style games with cocktail-making. Set in a Prohibition-style hideout, this high-energy experience throws you straight into the action as newly recruited bootleggers tasked with saving the operation from disaster. With the authorities closing in and the drinks supply under threat, you’ll need to think fast, work together, and sip strategically, starting with a welcome cocktail to get you in the spirit.

As the clock ticks, you and your crew will crack codes, uncover hidden recipes, and unlock the secrets of the underground bar scene before stepping behind the bar yourselves. The reward? A hands-on cocktail masterclass where you’ll shake up Cahoots’ signature serves like a seasoned smuggler.

Grab Tickets To Bootlegger Breakout Here. 

Work against the clock alongside your fellow recruits in this fun game. 

16. Enjoy Scandal With Tickets To Les Liaisons Dangereuses

• When: until 6th June 2026
• Location: Lyttelton Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, SE1 9PX
  
• Price: from £92 per person
• We recommend for: brilliant storytelling 

If you’re in the mood for gripping drama, the Les Liaisons Dangereuses returns in a dazzling new production at the Lyttelton Theatre.

Directed by Marianne Elliott, the revival stars Lesley Manville and Aidan Turner as two cunning aristocrats who turn seduction into a ruthless game of manipulation among the glittering salons of the French elite. Based on Les Liaisons dangereuses, the story follows a deliciously scandalous battle of wits, reputation and revenge, where one wrong move can ruin lives.

Book Tickets To Les Liaisons Dangereuses Here.

Expect sharp dialogue, dangerous flirtation and high-stakes social warfare in this stylish staging.

17. Visit An Immersive Art Exhibition

• When: selected times depending on the venue
• Location: varying locations across the capital
• Price: from free
• We recommend for: immersive art and family-friendly days out

Step into a world where art meets experience with London’s immersive exhibitions. From digital dreamscapes to multi-sensory installations, the city is bursting with creative spaces that invite you to walk through, touch, and even become part of the artwork. Think glowing forests, surreal projections, and interactive storytelling that goes far beyond the traditional gallery visit.

Whether you're exploring the futuristic realms of Frameless, diving into Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Rooms, or wandering through the colourful illusions at Dopamine Land, these exhibitions offer a fresh, unforgettable way to engage with art. 

Explore More Immersive Art Exhibitions Here.

The city is bursting full of incredible immersive art exhibitions.

18. Check Out Ramses And The Pharaohs' Gold: The Exhibition 

• When: until 12th July 2026
  
• Location: 2 Circus Road East, Battersea, SW11 8DQ
• Price: from £26.05 per adult and £24.05 per child
  
• We recommend for: history enthusiasts
  

Opening this weekend, Ramses And The Pharaohs' Gold: The Exhibition is taking over NEON at Battersea Power Station. This showcase is all about King Ramses II, widely known as Ramses the Great, who ruled Egypt for almost 67 years. He left an impressive legacy behind, and you can explore it all in this extensive display of over 180 artefacts.

See everything from royal treasures to huge sculptures, animal mummies and even the pharaoh’s original sarcophagus. There's an optional audio guide to enhance your experience, available in six different languages.

Find out more about this iconic pharaoh. 

19. Check Out London's Best Parks

• When: anytime
• Location: London's most famous green spaces
• Price: from free
• We recommend for: free things to do and wholesome experiences

When the weather's looking good for the weekend ahead, there's nothing better than chilling in a beautiful green space, and it's one of the many free things to do. This city has plenty of parks (and is actually made up of 40% public spaces), which is why it's only natural that we've put together a guide to the very best parks across the capital.

We've got all areas covered, from Hampstead Heath to Clapham Common or Greenwich Park - perfect for picnics, alfresco drinks and soaking up the sun among Grade II-listed buildings or picturesque Japanese gardens. - Kiera Chapman

Explore More Parks Here.

Free-roaming deer inhabit Richmond Park.

20. Explore The Newest Restaurant Openings

• When: various opening times
• Location: varying locations across the city
  
• Price: prices of food will vary
  
• We recommend for: incredible food and dining out
  

• When: all weekend
• Location: multiple venues across London
• Price: tickets vary depending on the venue
• We recommend for: partying and late night dancing

When looking for events in London this weekend, make sure to check out what's going on at some of the city's coolest clubs. You'll find that the Tottenham-based Drumsheds is one of the hottest around, hosting epic gigs in a warehouse space that used to be an IKEA.

If techno's your thing, check out fabric in Farringdon, or make your way over to Hackney Wick for Colour Factory, where you'll find a pretty outdoor terrace serving up delicious food (think burgers and Greek goodies) and all-day and night bashes 'til 4am. - Kiera Chapman

Discover And Book More Clubs Here.

London's home to some of the best nightclubs in the world, including fabric, Drumsheds and Colour Factory.

22. Check Out The Capital's Best Cocktail Bars

• When: open now
• Location: 30 Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, W1K 6AN
• Price: prices of food and drinks vary
  
• We recommend for: American-Italian dining and date night

Looking for the perfect spot to sip something special this weekend? London’s cocktail scene is overflowing with stylish bars serving up expertly crafted drinks in unforgettable settings. Whether you're into smoky old fashioneds, tropical tiki creations, or something totally experimental, there’s a bar for every taste.

Head to Swift for sleek sophistication, SOMA for minimalist Japanese-inspired mixes, or Nightjar for vintage vibes and live jazz. If you’re after something quirky, try Callooh Callay for playful menus and bold flavours. It’s the ideal way to elevate your weekend plans - one cocktail at a time.

Explore More Of London's Best Cocktail Bars Here.

London is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the UK.

23. Check Out Some Of London's Best Exhibitions

• When: every day on weekends, although each exhibition's opening times are different
• Location: all around London
• Price: price depends on the exhibition
• We recommend for: art buffs and wholesome things to do

If you're wondering what to do in London this weekend, allow us to point you to one of the thousands of exhibitions in the city - some of which are entirely free to enter.

It's a great idea for couples or even a little bit of alone time - just take your pick of everything from the iconic David Bowie Centre to Yoshitomo Nara at the Hayward Gallery and an exhibition on Wes Anderson at The Design Museum. There's also an immersive Titanic experience too.

Explore More Exhibitions Here.

London's exhibition scene is full of historical delights, such as Spencer House, as well as installations dedicated to David Bowie.

24. Visit These Stunning Rooftops

• When: throughout spring, summer and autumn
• Location: across London
• Price: food and drink prices vary
• We recommend for: summer date ideas

As the days get longer and warmer, there's nothing better than slinking up to one of London's fabulous rooftop bars across Covent Garden, Soho, Shoreditch, and beyond, and enjoying a cocktail around golden hour, or as the sun sets. 

Some of our favourites include 1864 Rooftop Bar, located on the 6th floor of John Lewis, featuring gorgeous foliage, private booths, and a menu full of tempting light bites. It's a go-to after a day of shopping around Oxford Street. Looking for something a little more lively? How about London Bridge Rooftop - these guys know a thing or two about a fabulous bottomless brunch, and you'll find bargain Aperol spritzes to enjoy with views of the Shard. And for those keen to stay in the city, Sabine Rooftop Bar is a wonderful shout. With St Paul's Cathedral as your backdrop, you can delight in espresso martinis galore. Want more? Found on The Royal Opera House's fifth floor and one of London's true hidden gems, Cicoria promises unbeatable views over Covent Garden.

Check Out These Rooftops Here. 

Enjoy a cocktail at these rooftop bars.

25. Visit The Wallace & Gromit And Friends Exhibition

• When: until 15th November 2026
• Location: Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA
• Price: from £12.50 per person
  
• We recommend for: families

Young V&A in Bethnal Green are opening their Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit And Friends exhibition this weekend. This explores the world of animator Aardman, and how he created these iconic characters, with lots of behind-the-scenes insight.

From Wallace & Gromit to Shaun the Sheep and Morph, you'll get to see all your favourites come to life here. Plus, they've even got a family design challenge you can get involved in.

Book Tickets To The Exhibition Here.

See your favourite characters come to life.

27. Mundo Pixar Experience

• When: until 28th June 2026
• Location: Wembley Park, Fulton Road, Wembley, HA9 0TF
• Price: £29 per person (£20 for children)
• We recommend for: family-friendly fun

The world’s largest immersive Pixar exhibition, the Mundo Pixar Experience can now be found in Wembley, following successful runs in Madrid, Barcelona and Brussels. Here, you can explore all your favourite films brought to life, through interactive exhibits and amazing photo opportunities.

Lose yourself in life-sized scenes like Andy's bedroom in Toy Story and Carl's floating house from UP, across 3,500 square metres of space. What's more, they've even unveiled a brand-new room, created exclusively for London.

Immerse yourself in Pixar films.

Need more inspiration? Check out the best things to do in London for more ideas.