May Bank Holiday 2025: Things to Do

Creative Tourist

The Early May Bank Holiday is just around the corner! Whether you’re a planner or prefer to play it by ear, we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you make the most of the long weekend. Since we can’t rely on the weather for that much-needed dose of vitamin D, we’ve included places to visit and activities to do, rain or shine.

From elegant food halls and spacious beer gardens, to dance festivals, art exhibitions and live gigs, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.

And if you’re curious about what else is on around the North this spring, take a look at our culture guides including exhibitions, music, cinema, theatre, literature, tours and activities and family events. Or, head straight to our destination guides for curated picks in Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds.

Our top picks

The Rose & Monkey Hotel

The Rose & Monkey Hotel, 31 Swan St, Northern Quarter, Manchester , M4 5JZ - Visit now

A vibrant live music venue with an old school pub vibe may not be what you would expect from a hotel. Let it surprise you though, and enjoy the roomy beer garden.

The Rose & Monkey Hotel
Ian Jones

Walks in Liverpool

Liverpool is full of hidden gems when it comes to picturesque walks, both in the city and the surrounding areas. If long weekends inspire you to get out and explore on foot, check out our guide.

Croxteth Hall and Country Park
Croxteth Hall and Country Park

Beer Gardens in Manchester & Salford

If the whole sun thing works out, you’ll likely be in the need of a top tier bar garden or three to pepper into your plans. Here’s 30, yes 30, of our favourites in Manchester and Salford.

Society Manchester

Spas in the North West

Looking for a place to relax and unwind, but not too far from home? Look no further, check out our guide to the best spas in the North West.

Sunday Roasts in Manchester

With Sunday roasts set to be replaced with lighter bites as the weather warms, the Bank Holiday’s a good time to go out with a belly-busting bang. Check out our roundup of the best Sunday Roasts in Manchester.

Exhibition

Exhibition, Exhibition, St George's House, 56 Peter St, Manchester , M2 3NQ - Visit now

Exhibition is not just another food hall, but possibly the best-looking and most elegant one that Manchester has. With Scandinavian and European-inspired menus, high ceilings and delicious drinks, it’s sure to elevate your long weekend to a truly memorable experience.

Parks and Gardens in Manchester

You can’t go wrong with a visit to the park, weather permitting. Take a break from the city noise, bring a friend, bring your dog, breathe in the spring air and have an ice-cream en plein air.

Blossom on trees in Manchester
Ben Williams
Image by Jonathan Schofield.
Spotlight on

Walking Tours in Manchester by Jonathan Schofield

Presenting the best walking tours in Manchester for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Exhibitions in the North

Galleries around the North are gearing up for a new season of exhibitions - from iconic art prizes to smaller, artist-led gems.

Cinema in the North

This month we recommend a season of Film noir, cult Australian movies and a huge celebration of DIY community cinema.

Theatre in Manchester and the North
Theatre in the North

This season’s theatre is gloriously eclectic: from radical cabaret and reinvented classics to new musicals and boundary-pushing performance.

Wisp Press Image
Music in the North

From corrupted shoegaze to experimental electronica, post-hardcore to Indian classical, these are the shows that should be on your radar.