Wondering where to go on holiday in May? Don’t miss our curated guide to the best spring getaway destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of sun, sand and saltwater or country charm, there’s something for everyone in our roundup.
Embrace the arts in Norfolk
From classic music concerts to cabaret acts, The Norfolk & Norwich Festival sees the region come alive with a kaleidoscope of performances. More than 250 years in the making, the event attracts tens of thousands of festivalgoers every season. The countryside is peppered with stunning self-contained rental properties, making Norfolk a dream destination for a creativity-fuelled getaway.
Beat the summer crowds in Cornwall
With average highs of 14°C and plenty of sunshine, Cornwall is surprisingly pleasant in May. It’s not exactly sunbathing weather, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for scenic beach walks and rambles through the surrounding moorlands. Stroll around charming harbour villages like Falmouth, explore historic landmarks like Tintagel Castle and catch a show at the Minack Theatre, one of the most atmospheric performing arts venues in England.
Weather not cooperating? Not to worry. You’re never too far from a tearoom in Cornwall. Settle in and devour a scrumptious platter of scones, jam and clotted cream served with a freshly brewed pot of tea. Don’t forget to slather on the jam first followed by a dollop of cream – this all-important order is what sets Cornish cream teas apart from their Devonshire counterparts.
Celebrate music and literature in Bath
Now in its 76th year, The Bath Festival is a citywide celebration of music and literature. Discover an extraordinary programme of events for all ages, from family-friendly concerts to book signings. The Cotswolds is at your doorstep in Bath, so don’t forget your walking shoes!
Stay dry in Bognor Regis
With just over 40mm of rainfall, May is one of the driest months of the year in Bognor Regis. Tucked away in West Sussex, this seaside gem is a favourite with Londoners in search of R&R on May Day Bank Holiday. It’ll probably be a little chilly to swim but there’s no shortage of chocolate-box villages, quaint market towns and centuries-old castles to explore. South Downs National Park is just 20 minutes away by car, making it easy to stretch your legs and discover a landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands and flower-strewn heathland.
Old-fashioned fun in Gloucestershire
Looking for unique ideas for where to go in May half term? Set your sights on Gloucestershire, home to the annual Tetbury Woolsack Race. Held on the last bank holiday Monday in May, the event dates back to the 17th century. Cheer on competitors as they race along one of the steepest streets in town, carrying 60lb woolsacks! The race itself isn’t the only event on the agenda, with a street fair, pop-up stalls and amusement rides to keep you entertained.
Get a dose of Vitamin D in Eastbourne
Wondering where to go in the UK in May for sunshine? A huge seven hours of daily sunshine makes Eastbourne one of England’s sunniest destinations in May. Fringed by miles of pristine beaches, the Victorian resort town is the perfect place for a spring retreat. There’s plenty to keep you entertained if rainy weather sets in, including the fantastic Towner Art Gallery filled with modern British masterpieces and Redoubt Fortress, a Napoleonic stronghold reimagined as a military museum.
Get jazzy in Cheltenham
Celebrate the arrival of spring at the annual Cheltenham Jazz Festival. One of the most anticipated jazz events in the UK, the festival attracts celebrated musicians from around the world. When it comes to accommodation you’re spoilt for choice. From Regency townhouses in the heart of Cheltenham to luxurious manor houses in the Cotswolds countryside, self-contained holiday rentals are the perfect way to set the tone for your May getaway.
Pro tip – stock up on ingredients and use your chef’s kitchen to whip up Jazz Age cocktails like the French 75, Southside and Sidecar.
Cheer on cyclists in Lincoln
More than just a pretty face, Lincoln hosts one of the most exciting cycling events on the British sports calendar. Every year cyclists take to the streets of the Cathedral Quarter for the annual Lincoln Grand Prix, a two-day road bike race that kicks off in Castle Square. Cheer on competitors as they ascend Michaelgate, an impossibly steep cobbled street with a calf-burning gradient of 20%. If you’re wondering where to go in the UK in May for sporting events, Lincolnshire is a top choice.
Escape to the country in Nottinghamshire
What better way to usher in spring than with a quintessential British county show? The Nottinghamshire County Show is one of our favourites and celebrates the region’s agricultural roots with a scrum of events. Admire ribbon-winning livestock, watch equine shows, sample food from local producers and shop for one-of-a-kind gifts at craft stalls. Don’t forget your tweeds!
Get salty at the Salcombe Crab Festival
Love seafood and wondering where to go on holiday in May? You’ll fall shell over claws for the annual Salcombe Crab Festival. A staple on the Devon spring events calendar, this fishy festival pays tribute to the famous ‘Cancer Pagurus’ brown crabs caught off the coast of Devon. Renowned for their soft flesh and sweet flavour, the crustaceans are so delicious they’ve earned their very own festival.
It’s held in the adorable seaside town of Salcombe, where you’ll find some beautiful holiday cottages. Some even boast uninterrupted sea views, complete with heated outdoor pools, sun-drenched terraces and gardens that cascade down to the water.
Book your spring getaway with kate & tom’s
With so many amazing destinations to choose from, choosing where to go on holiday for May half term has never been more fun. Whether you’re craving a seaside getaway in Cornwall, a music-filled extravaganza in Cheltenham or a fix of fresh air in the Cotswolds, find luxury May holiday rentals for every occasion with kate & tom’s.
