10 things to do in London May 2023

Published: 28 Apr 2023
May is always a month with many significant events, and this year is even bigger with the Coronation of King Charles III. This article lists 10 ideas on what to do in London in May 2023.
All eyes will be on Buckingham Palace during the Coronation weekend
All eyes will be on Buckingham Palace during the Coronation weekend

King Charles III’s coronation

In May of 2023, King Charles will be crowned after the passing of Queen Elizabeth last year, marking a significant occasion for the Royal Family. The coronation ceremony, which has remained largely unchanged for approximately a thousand years since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, will take place at Westminster Abbey. There will be three days of festivities throughout the city.

On the coronation day, their Majesties will travel from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey on 6 May in The King’s Procession using the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, where the ceremony will begin at 11AM. Individuals who wish to visit sites along The Mall and Whitehall will be allowed entry on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if these sites become full, they will be redirected to official screening sites in Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James’s Park. Coronation on 6th of May, events continue until 8th of May

London Eye Coronation Capsule

The Coronation Capsule at London Eye
The Coronation Capsule at London Eye. Image courtesy of London Eye

Experience a royal affair in the Coronation Capsule above the breathtaking scenery of London at up to 135m altitude. Commemorating the coronation of King Charles III, this unique capsule offers stunning views of the ancient Westminster Abbey across the river. You can relive the momentous occasion by sitting in a replica of the 700-year-old Coronation Chair and holding replicas of the Crown Jewels, including St. Edward’s Crown, the Sovereign’s Orb, and the Sovereign’s Sceptre, for a majestic photo opportunity. As part of the national festivities, you will receive a complimentary glass of champagne or a soft drink to complete your regal experience. 29 April - 8 May

Grand Designs Live

Grand Designs Live is a renowned home event that offers ideas, inspiration, and expert advice. Kevin McCloud, the event host, presents innovative products and sustainable solutions for homes. 29 April - 7 May

London Craft Week

London Craft Week is an event that celebrates the extraordinary talent of British and international makers, designers, brands, and galleries. Over 250 participants will showcase their work at the event. 8 May - 14 May

Disney Wonder of Friendship: The Experience

The event called ‘Wonder of Friendship: The Experience’ will involve exploring the friendships of beloved Disney characters. Visitors can explore various installations themed around ‘Alice in Wonderland’, Lilo & Stitch, ‘The Lion King’, and Mickey and Friends. Augmented reality will allow visitors to use QR codes to bring characters to life. 12 May - 21 May

Chelsea Flower show

Garden enthusiasts can explore the latest trends and innovative ideas in garden design at the shows beautiful gardens. The Show Gardens exhibit stunning gardening displays, while the Sanctuary Gardens emphasise the health benefits of gardening. The All About Plants section focuses on specialised plants, and the Balcony and Container Gardens are created specifically for people living in urban areas. 23 May - 27 May

Chelsea in Bloom

Jo Malone store during Chelsea in Bloom 2022
Jo Malone store during Chelsea in Bloom 2022

Chelsea in Bloom is an event that coincides with the Chelsea Flower Show, where many local businesses decorate their shops with flower installations. The theme for the 2023 event is “Flowers on Film.” Participants are encouraged to create displays based on characters and storylines featured in movies, cinematic awards, and the local area’s cinematic history. For free, you can explore Chelsea in Bloom, including areas such as King’s Road, Duke of York Square, Sloane Square, Sloane Street, Royal Avenue, and Dovehouse Green. This event makes for a lovely day to stroll around Chelsea and is one of our favourites. 22 May - 27 May

Belgravia in Bloom 2023

Experience the spectacular displays of floral installations featuring various creatures, such as tigers, butterflies, peacocks, and more, depicting the ‘Into the Wild’ theme at the Belgravia in Bloom festival. The festival is free to attend, and visitors can look forward to floral-themed events, cocktails, and experiences offered by Belgravia’s shops and restaurants during the festival. Many installations will celebrate King Charles III’s coronation this month, featuring “kings” and “queens” of habitats adorned with royal decorations. In addition, the installations will pay tribute to the King’s ascension. 22 May - 29 May

Thin Air exhibition

The Beams will host an exhibition called Thin Air. Artists worldwide will use digital technology and large-scale installation to reveal the hidden complexities that impact our daily lives. The exhibition will showcase contemporary artworks from artists such as 404.zero, James Clar, Robert Henke, Kimchi and Chips with Rosa Menkman, Matthew Schreiber, S E T U P, and UCLA Arts Conditional Studio. Until 4 June

Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination

Checkout the official event video

The exhibition in the galaxy has been extended and will now close on 20 August 2023, so don’t miss your chance to experience it. You’ll be guided by an AI of alien origin on an exciting science fiction adventure. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to explore a distinctive spaceship, uncover an unexplored planet, and better understand our world by learning how science fiction scientists and creators have conceived and constructed new worlds. Until 20 August 2023