As London blossoms into late spring, May 2025 invites you to indulge in an unforgettable curation of art, theatre, music, and immersive culture. From electrifying ballet and award-winning musicals to progressive photography and interactive theatre soirées, this month’s cultural calendar bursts with creativity, character, and charisma.
Whether you’re a seasoned local or a stylish visitor, our editorial team at Absolutely has scoured the city to handpick the most unmissable events that define London’s vibrant spirit this season. Let us guide you to the finest experiences the capital has to offer, with a touch of elegance and a lot of excitement.
Things to Do in London in May 2025
Peckham 24
Dates: 16th – 25th May
Venue: Copeland Gallery
The four winners of the 2025 V&A Parasol Foundation Prize for Women in Photography exhibit their work in a group show as part of the Peckham 24 festival programme. Pictured is ‘Arifa Bano’ by Spandita Malik, who works
within rural women’s communities in her home country of India.
Sketch in Bloom
Dates: 1st May – 1st June
Venue: Sketch, 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair
For its eleventh edition, the iconic Mayfair venue sketch transforms into a floricultural dreamscape in celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. “Sketch in Bloom” invites visitors on an enchanting journey through a regency-inspired English garden, imagined by some of the UK’s most acclaimed floral designers—Lucy Vail Floristry, Ricky Paul and Rob Van Helden. The Grade II* listed building becomes a multisensory tribute to the beloved author, offering immersive installations, theatrical afternoon teas, classical music, and bespoke cocktails.
Highlights include a “living portrait” photo opportunity featuring a regency-style writing desk set against a countryside mural, a striking wisteria tree centerpiece in the Michelin-starred Lecture Room, and a whimsical topiary figure in The Pods. Guests can also indulge in an Austen-themed afternoon tea (£115pp), attend floral workshops, or savour a limited-edition three Michelin star lunch (£150pp) throughout the exhibition’s run. Limited edition Penguin Vintage Collector’s Classics of Pride & Prejudice and Emma will be available, alongside custom cocktails and curated playlists to complete this rich sensory homage to Austen’s world.
Plied and Prejudice
Dates: Until 31st May
Venue: The Vaults, Waterloo
Equal parts performance and party, this immersive show delivers lots of audience participation complete with dance lessons, inappropriate proposals, free flowing drinks brought to you by the servants, that wet shirt scene, cameos from “Keira Knightly” and lots of laughs in this chaotic and hilarious retelling of Pride & Prejudice.
Jane Eyre
Dates: 13th – 17th May
Venue: Sadlers Wells
Northern Ballet’s critically acclaimed Jane Eyre follows one of literature’s most iconic heroines on a journey of resilience, romance and redemption. Based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë, this beautiful love story is brought to life with heart stirring choreography and live music.
Kruder & Dorfmeister: The K&D Sessions
Dates: 3rd – 4th May
Venue: Royal Festival Hall
Now approaching its 25th anniversary, the iconic album has sold over a million copies. The iconic Austrian remix duo come to London with a celebratory gig over two nights.
Get your tickets at Southbank Centre
Starlight Express
Dates: Ongoing
Venue: Troubadour Wembley Park
The production has recently won 7 Awards at the What’s On Stage Awards, including the prestigious Best Musical Revival, and has been nominated for 3 Olivier Awards. From June , a new cast includes Gavin Adams as Rusty, Sophie Naglik as Pearl, Olivia Ringrose as Greaseball, Asher Forth as Electra and Georgia Pemberton as Dinah. They will be joining Jade Marvin as Momma McCoy and Jaydon Vijn as Hydra.
Primavera
Dates: 27th May – 8th June
Venue: 19 Kensington Park Road W11
Monica Maja Richardson draws inspiration from her Italian roots and the arrival of spring for her new solo
exhibition Primavera. The show features a series of bold new large-scale canvases and smaller paintings that are both a celebration of nature and a reflection of Richardson’s abstract expressionist influences. Her colourful palette of pinks, yellows, greens, blues and reds applied with loose brushstrokes evokes a chorus of crocuses, dancing daffodils and vibrant violets.
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
