What’s On in London in May


With two Bank Holidays and spring stepping into the great outdoors, spending May in London can create memories that will last a lifetime. From food festivals, Harry Potter’s Day, and the renowned Chelsea Flower Show to night stays in the Cathedral and in luxury family apartments, the British capital is on the roll like never before.

Discover What’s on in London in April with a handpicked list below



Art and Culture in London



Billingsgate Roman House and Baths – Uncover the City’s rich Roman History

Discover one of the most captivating sites in Roman London and marvel at the impeccably preserved stone remnants of the residence, courtyard, and baths. This legendary archaeological treasure is exclusively accessible through advanced booking for guided tours. Secure your spot now and embark on a journey through history.

Public tours led by official City of London Guides take place on Saturdays from 13 April to 30 November 2024.

Billingsgate Roman House & Baths is located in 9 minutes’ walk from Tower Suites hotel by Blue Orchid Hospitality.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.:

London Craft Week

Celebrating outstanding British and international makers during 13 to 19 May, the festival brings together over 750 established and emerging crafters, designers, brands and galleries with an array of events in all parts of London. A curated selection based not on price or fame, but underlying substance. Events and master classes will be held across all London.

Website:www.londoncraftweek.com

New guided walks by City of London Guides

Join a walking tour of the City of London and discover historic sites and famous landmarks with an official City guide. Join the popular City Highlights or try one of the themed tours including Romans, Wren’s architecture, or the Great Fire of London.

New guided walks from last month include “Secrets and Symbols of the City”, “From Shakespeare to Oscar Wilde” and “News from Fleet Street”. Tours start from the City of London Information Centre, located 12 minutes on the tube tube from Tower Residences by Blue Orchid Hospitality. Tours booking required, here.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

The Royal Horticultural Society’s show represents the pinnacle of gardening excellence, and there’s something for everyone no matter what kind of gardener you are. Held in Chelsea since 1912, the show is traditionally attended by members of the British Royal Family. Experience amazing garden designs, gorgeous floral displays, and exclusive shopping.

The Wellington hotel by Blue Orchid Hospitality is ideal for staying in and visiting the Chelsea Flower Show, . It’s located a 30-minute by walk or 10 minutes by car journey from the Chelsea Flower Show.

Show times are 21st – 25th May 2024. Details can be found here.

Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography

This major exhibition charts the evolution of royal portrait photography over the past 100 years, through more than 150 works by the most celebrated royal photographers, from Dorothy Wilding to Annie Leibovitz.

See the exhibition in the King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, from 17 May. Tickets available here.

Both The Wellington and The Rochester hotels are nestled just 15 mins walk away from Buckingham Palace and other royal landmarks.

St Paul’s Cathedral at Night

Starting from 11th May, explore the little-known stories of the Cathedral’s rich history with guided tours and trails, join handling sessions with expert craftspeople, and enjoy the Cathedral’s art including works by Henry Moore and Bill Viola. Detail and tickets here

Distance to Tower Suites - 12 minutes by tube.

Firsts: London’s Rare Book Fair

The one of the most popular and prestigious rare book fairs in the world takes place between 16-19 May.

Discover titles by distinguished authors, ephemera from celebrity readers, and manuscripts from history’s great moments — all in the heart of Chelsea, mere steps away from The Wellington and Rochester hotels.

Tickets: https://www.firstslondon.com/


Bank Holidays


Family Package in Tower Suites by Blue Orchid Hospitality

Have some family fun with world heritage sites and iconic London landmarks right on your doorstep. Neighboring the iconic Tower of London and just moments away from Tower Bridge, enjoy a stay in luxurious living of Tower Suites Hotel with all the family this holiday.

The Family package includes an overnight stay in luxury living for four people (two adults and two children), breakfast, goodie bags, authentic Italian dinner for four (kids eat for free), family pizza making class (advance booking required) together with 10% discount on all food and beverage outlets and spa treatments. Details and booking here


Sport


Ride London FreeCycle

On 26th May, cycle through the best traffic-free central London locations. The whole route starts and ends on the corner of Green Park and St James’s Park (16 mins walk from The Wellington), though anyone is welcome to join at any point during the ride. Website:www.ridelondon.co.uk/our-rides/ridelondon-freecycle

Rooftop Yoga by The Skyline London

On 18 and 20 May experience relaxing and grounding yoga sessions, while enjoying stunning views over the Tower of London, followed by a delicious brunch.

Suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners, and led by some of London’s best yoga instructors, these classes are designed to help you connect with your body, breath, and mind, and to create a sense of inner peace and harmony that you can carry with you throughout your day. After the class, you can then be sure to sit down, relax and enjoy a sumptuous healthy and light brunch in the restaurant.

The Skyline London’s stunning panoramic views rooftop in The Tower Suites Hotel provides an exceptional setting for your morning practice.

Book various dates on Eventbrite.


Food and Drink in London


Between the Bridges

A seasonal pop-up between Waterloo and Westminster bridges offers a renowned selection of London’s finest street food and drinks, along with an eclectic programme of free and ticketed events across drag shows, themed club nights, DJs and live performances.

8mins car ride from The Wellington and The Rochester Hotels. From 2nd May.

Website www.betweenthebridges.co.uk

Cento Alla Torre

Dedicated to upholding the traditions associated with authentic Italian cuisine, Cento Alla Torre uses only the best of local ingredients for its artisanal homemade pasta, masterfully crafted cicchetti menu, and exquisite tasty dolce options. The expansive views over the Tower of London provide a stunning backdrop.

Book now: www.centoallatorre.com

Sapphire Bar

Indulge in a selection of classic beverages or let mixologists surprise you with a unique blend. Relax in a discrete ambiance of the Sapphire Bar, adorned with comfortable furnishings and beautifully appointed décor pieces.

The bar is located in Tower Suites hotel by Blue Orchid Hospitality.

Website: www.blueorchid.com/dining-restaurants-bars


Theatre


Guys&Dolls in Bridge Theatre

The Bridge Theatre hosts one of the most exceptional musicals in history. With an abundance of chart-topping tunes, uproarious laughter, and heartfelt romance, it’s a production like never before. Seating encircles the unfolding drama, immersing the audience in the bustling streets of Manhattan and the vibrant bars of Havana, where an improbable love story unfolds, made even more vivid with immersive tickets. Tickets available here.

A short walk from Tower Suites and Tower Residences.

Standing At The Sky’s Edge in Gillian Lynne Theatre

A recipient of the Best New Musical accolade at the 2023 Olivier Awards, now makes its highly awaited move to the illustrious stages of the West End. This extraordinary production unfolds the tale of three generations, entwining a narrative that traverses the entirety of human emotion. Tickets available here

Distance to The Wellington and Rochester hotels - 18 minutes by car.

Matilda The Musical in Cambridge Theatre

A mesmerising musical masterpiece celebrates the chaos of childhood and the boundless power of imagination, in the empowering journey of a girl who boldly reshapes her fate. A musical not to be missed. Tickets available here: https://uk.matildathemusical.com/

Distance to The Wellington and Rochester hotels - 15 minutes by car.

Mrs. Doubtfire in Shaftesbury Theatre

A must-see for all the family - don’t miss the heartwarming and hilarious story of Mrs. Doubtfire. The largest independent theatre in the West End presents this classic 90s comedy.

Tickets available here: https://www.shaftesburytheatre.com/

Distance to The Wellington and Rochester hotels - 15 minutes by car.


Make the most of all London has to offer this May; there’s a plethora of opportunities awaiting.

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