Things to do in London this month
Wondering what to do in London this month? Make the most of May with high fashion, fresh blooms, new restaurants, exhibitions, plays and more
London's blooming: Chelsea Flower show
Morito Hackney opens 11 May
London has long been obsessed with first Moro and Morito. Now the city’s buzzing with the news that husband and wife foodies Sam and Sam Clark will bring their low key cool and exquisite small plates to a new hip and happening, Hackney location. Expect the same Mediterranean flavours, open kitchen and casual countertop, plus some added East London flair.
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Romeo & Juliet, Garrick Theatre opens 12 May
In the 400th year since Shakespeare’s death, England’s alive with tributes. The pick of the bunch is this sizzling new production of the bard’s star-crossed lovers. Film star and new face of Burberry Lily James brings beauty and fresh talent to the role of Juliet, opposite a Romeo who’s famous for playing Disney’s Prince Charming. Director Kenneth Branagh is renowned for bringing Elizabethan language to life, so even those who don't know their wherefores from their wheres will be absorbed.
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Aladdin, Prince Edward Theatre opens 27 May
After delighting crowds and critics on Broadway, Aladdin a whole new world of musical theatre magic to London’s West End. As bright and big budget as you’d expect from a Disney musical, the show bursts with hit songs and high-octane dance number. A plucky street rat, mischievous genie and a pop star Princess Jasmine are the recipe for a feel-good family favourite. We predict a smash hit to rival the Lion King.
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Photo London 19 May – 22 May
Marking London’s place as a serious contender in the realm of photographic art, this vast festival brings together major museums, industry heavyweights and tiny boutique galleries for a four-day photography festival spanning fashion to fine art. And unlike most large-scale art events – the setting is as picturesque as the exhibits. Banish thoughts of sterile booths and stuffy tents: Photo London is spread across the elegant neo-Classical Somerset.
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Chelsea Flower Show 24-28 May
Chelsea Flower Show is the fashion week of horticulture – with more panache, colour and fragrance than any couture catwalk show. Chic West London is transformed into lush paradise of budding new garden designs and the very best blooms, it’s a feast for the senses. But the flowers aren’t the only attraction. The Flower Show is a highlight of the summer calendar and a firm favourite among socialites, celebrities and royals. Hurry up and book before tickets dry out.
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Kate Spade now open on Regent’s Street
The fashion designer who’s brightened up New York with a rainbow of simple, statement handbags is making her mark in London. Kate Spade is fast-becoming synonymous with playful yet sophisticated urban style. Her new shop, in the heart of London’s shopping mecca, is her biggest in the UK. Pop in for a pop of colour (and don’t blame us if you leave laden with bags).
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Frankenstein, Royal Ballet 4 - 27 May
Banish thoughts of the ballet as just tutus and sugarplum fairies. Mary Shelley's monster is reimagined in ballet form in this hotly-anticipated new story dance from choreographer Liam Scarlett. With a penchant for the gothic and a history of particularly ghoulish shows, Scarlett's set to bring out the horror and the depth of the story.
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The Vogue Festival 21 - 22 May
Models, designers and industry experts flock to this high fashion festival celebrating Vogue's centenary year. From the CEO of hot new designer Vetements to Kim Kardashian West herself, this two day extravaganza is not short of star sparkle. Though such glamour, predictably, comes with a hefty price tag.
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