The best things to see and do in London this May
Your guide to the best London exhibitions, theatre & events every month
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Image: Art of London
Catherine Opie: To Be Seen
Catherine Opie: To Be Seen is the first major UK museum exhibition by acclaimed American photographer Catherine Opie. Bringing together over 30 years of work, the show explores themes of identity, community, family, and power through striking portraiture—from early series like Being and Having to later, richly styled images of artists and everyday subjects. Presented in dialogue with the National Portrait Gallery collection, the exhibition invites visitors to reconsider who is seen, and who is often overlooked, in art and society.
@NationalPortraitGallery | Until 31 May | Ticket price varies
Vino & Vistas
Vino & Vistas is a special offer linked to the Catherine Opie: To Be Seen exhibition, combining a visit to the show with a glass of wine and a selection of Italian-style aperitivo. A relaxed way to enjoy the exhibition, it’s designed for visitors who want to linger a little longer and take in the work over a wonderful view of Westminster.
@theportraitrestaurant | Tues - Saturday, 3–5pm, until 31 May | £15 per person
Image: Royal Academy of Arts - Obi Agwam - 'All the ways I love you', 2026 - Mixed media.
Love letters to you and me
Love Letters to You and Me features new paintings and sculptures by Obi Agwam. Through expressive, contemporary works, the exhibition explores themes of personal reflection and connection, inviting visitors into a thoughtful and visually engaging experience.
@RoyalAcademyArts Weston Studio | 1–24 May | Free
Picture This: David Harewood and John Wilson in conversation
Picture This: David Harewood and John Wilson in Conversation, brings together actor David Harewood and filmmaker John Wilson for an engaging public discussion at the National Gallery. Exploring art, identity, and storytelling, the event offers a rare opportunity to hear two distinctive voices reflect on creativity and culture.
@NationalGallery | Friday, 15 May, 7–8 pm | Tickets price varies
Image(s): Manuel Harlan
Romeo and Juliet
Romeo and Juliet stars Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe in their West End debuts, bringing a fresh energy to Shakespeare’s timeless story of love and tragedy. This new production offers an accessible, emotionally charged take on the classic, performed in the heart of London’s theatre district. Don’t miss the chance to see two rising stars take on one of the most iconic plays ever written.
@HaroldPinterTheatre | Until 20 June | Ticket price varies
How Very Hannah - Live
How Very Hannah – Live brings the hugely popular stage and theatre podcast by Hannah Lowther to the West End for a special live show. Expect sharp wit, backstage stories, and plenty of theatrical chat in an entertaining night that celebrates all things stagey. A must-see for theatre fans looking for a fun, up-close live experience.
Garrick Theatre | Sunday 24 May, 7.30pm | Ticket price varies
Image: Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Makers: Crafted with Joy
Fortnum & Makers: Crafted with Joy showcases an exclusive collection of handmade, joy-inspired creations as part of London Craft Week. Bringing together talented makers and artisans, this curated selection celebrates craftsmanship, creativity, and thoughtful design in the heart of the city. A perfect stop for anyone looking to discover unique, beautifully made pieces during London Craft Week.
@Fortnums | 11-17 May
A coffee (or juice!) with Katy Hessel
A Coffee (or Juice!) with Katy Hessel is a family-friendly talk with art historian and bestselling author Katy Hessel. Offering an accessible and engaging introduction to art, this relaxed event invites audiences of all ages to explore creativity and visual culture over a coffee or juice.
@RoyalAcademyArts John Madejski Fine Rooms | 29 May, 11–12.15pm | Ticket price varies
Image: Art of London
Banksy
All eyes were on Waterloo Place last week as Banksy made their illusive return in the form of a new statue which depicts a male figure walking off a plinth while carrying a flag that covers his face.
The statue was installed in the early hours on Wednesday 29 April and still remains in situ along Waterloo Place, an area steeped with history and statues that reflect imperial Britain.
📍Location: Waterloo Place, St James's
Featured Venues
Fortnum & Mason
Retail
Since 1707, Fortnum & Mason has been home to extraordinary food, joy-giving things and unforgettable dining experiences. Situated on Piccadilly, it's the most luxurious department store in the world. Offering full range of luxury signature hampers and gift boxes, sweet and savoury treats, and gifts for every occasion.
Royal Academy of Arts
Gallery
The Royal Academy of Arts is a world-renowned art institution based in Burlington House on Piccadilly, London. For over 250 years, the RA has existed to champion art and artists and offers a place where art is made, exhibited and debated. Enjoy their expanded campus with free displays, new spots to eat, drink and shop, and much more.
National Portrait Gallery
Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery sits seconds away from Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, London. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856 and houses the world's largest collection of personalities and faces, from the late Middle Ages to the present day.
Garrick Theatre
Theatre
The Garrick Theatre opened on 24th April 1889 with The Profligate, a play by Arthur Wing Pinero. In its early years, it specialised in the performance of melodrama, and today the theatre is a receiving house for a variety of productions. The theatre is named after David Garrick, and was designed by Walter Emden.
Harold Pinter Theatre
Theatre
The Harold Pinter Theatre opened in 1881 as the Royal Comedy Theatre and staged hugely successful shows, such as The Rocky Horror Show’s West End debut. The name changed in 2011 to The Harold Pinter Theatre in honour of Pinter’s work for the Comedy Theatre. The theatre recently produced Pinter at the Pinter, a series of one-act plays in celebration of Pinter himself.