Spring in the City: Your May 2026 Guide to Islington, Shoreditch, Hackney Kings Cross & Beyond
May is the month London finally exhales. The evenings stretch out, the pub terraces swell, and the energy across North and East London shifts into a proper spring gear. It’s the season of bank holiday weekends, impromptu canal walks that turn into dinner, and Sunday mornings spent navigating flower markets with a coffee in hand.
Whether you are booking ahead for the Almeida, hunting down a sun-trap beer garden in Hackney, or looking for a late-night music fix in Shoreditch, this is your insider-led, curated roadmap. Forget the generic lists—here is what you should actually be doing around Islington, Hackney, King’s Cross, and Shoreditch this May.
THE MAY 2026 HIT LIST
If you want the quick editor’s shortlist for this month, start here.
• The Theatre Pick: A Doll’s House at the Almeida Theatre (running until 23 May). A striking, must-see adaptation. Best for a cultured date night.
• The Live Music Pick: Ishmael Ensemble & The Rituals Orchestra at EartH Hackney (9 May). Expansive, cinematic sounds in a brilliant venue. Best for serious music heads.
• The Nightlife Pick: The Sundown Rodeo at Village Underground (2 May). A day-to-night Wild West-themed rave opening the summer season. Best for a massive Saturday blowout.
• The Market: Canopy Market at King’s Cross. Perfect for browsing independent makers and grabbing artisan street food. Best for a lazy Sunday.
• The Rooftop: Boundary Rooftop in Shoreditch. Essential for watching the sun drop over East London with a cocktail in hand. Best for after-work drinks.
• The Restaurant: The Tamil Prince in Islington. Desi pub perfection that remains a strong May shout. Best for dinner with friends.
• The Hidden Gem: Word on the Water near Granary Square. A floating 1920s barge filled with books. Best for a quiet afternoon escape.
• The Family Idea: Granary Square Fountains. The ultimate free, chaotic joy for kids when the sun comes out. Best for sunny weekend mornings.
• The Free Thing: Walking the Regent’s Canal Towpath from Islington down to Broadway Market. Best for clearing your head.
• The Sunday Idea: Columbia Road Flower Market followed by small plates at Brawn or a roast at The Marksman. Best for a Sunday reset.
ISLINGTON & ANGEL
Islington in May is all about the transition from cultural afternoons to long, hazy evenings. The neighbourhood has a polished yet completely relaxed energy right now.
For theatre, the Almeida Theatre is currently running an incredible production of A Doll’s House (until 23 May)—book a table at Trullo or Primeur for an unbeatable pre-show dinner. Over at Sadler’s Wells, you can catch Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (5–6 May) for a brilliant twist on classical ballet. If you’re looking for intimate live gigs, The Lexington and The Garage have properly curated indie lineups, while Union Chapel hosts the stunning acoustics of Seth Lakeman (15 May) and The Handsome Family (23–24 May).
When the sun is shining, there’s nothing quite like the pub gardens here. The wisteria-draped Albion, the charming courtyard at The Drapers Arms, or the hidden gem that is The Compton Arms are ideal for weekend pints. For a Sunday stroll, weave through the antique stalls at Camden Passage, grab a coffee at Jolene Bakery on Essex Road, and take the New River Walk down towards Canonbury.
Things to do in Islington: The ultimate guide 2026
HACKNEY, DALSTON & LONDON FIELDS
Hackney thrives in the spring. The creative, alternative pulse of the borough is best experienced by just wandering, but having a few anchors helps.
Hackney Empire is celebrating a major milestone this month with Ballet Black at 25 (21–23 May), a landmark double-bill honoring their silver anniversary. For music, EartH Hackney is hosting everything from the jazz-infused Ishmael Ensemble (9 May) to the Dialled In London 5th Birthday (30 May), a day-to-night journey through electronic soundscapes.
Saturdays are non-negotiable: start at Broadway Market for street food, grab a pastry from The Dusty Knuckle or Violet Cakes, and sit in London Fields. Later on, shift towards Hackney Wick for canal-side beers at Crate Brewery or Barge East. If you want something late, Night Tales, Colour Factory, or the legendary Dalston Superstore are essential stops. For a more relaxed evening, catch an indie film at The Castle Cinema or Rio Cinema, followed by natural wine and small plates at Ombra or Pophams London Fields.
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SHOREDITCH, HOXTON & OLD STREET
Shoreditch shakes off the winter chill quickly. This is the time to embrace the rooftops, street art, and late-night culinary scene.
For big nights out, Village Underground is pulling heavy hitters this month, including Casa PARISI (15 May) and a massive Liquicity London drum and bass night (9 May). If you’re planning a group night out, head to Bounce Old Street or Hijingo Bingo before ending up at XOYO or Queen of Hoxton.
When it comes to food, Shoreditch remains unmatched for stylish, high-energy dining. Snag a booking at Brat, Manteca, or Smoking Goat. For date nights, grab cocktails at subterranean spots like Seed Library or Nightjar, then head up to Kaso Rooftop or Boundary Rooftop to take advantage of the longer daylight hours. On a Sunday, bypass the crowds with a walk through the Museum of the Home gardens before securing a table at Rochelle Canteen—an absolute dream on a sunny May afternoon.
Things to Do in Shoreditch: The Ultimate Guide 2026
KING’S CROSS & COAL DROPS YARD
King’s Cross is arguably London’s best success story when it comes to marrying industrial history with modern, sleek design.
In May, life revolves around the water. The Granary Square fountains become the focal point, while the stepped terraces of Coal Drops Yard are perfect for people-watching. If you want a brilliant, immersive night out, Lafayette is currently hosting Sabrage (running through May), an intoxicating blend of vintage French glamour, circus, and late-night DJ sets.
For food, Canopy Market is ideal for weekend grazing, but if you want to sit down, the outdoor tables at Parrillan, The Lighterman, and Barrafina are where you want to be. Grab a post-work cocktail at The Drop or take an evening stroll through Camley Street Natural Park (check closing times) before seeing a gig at Kings Place or Scala.
Best Things to Do in King’s Cross and Nearby: The Ultimate Guide 2026
BEST THEATRE & CULTURE THIS MAY
• A Doll’s House at Almeida Theatre (Islington): Running until 23 May. A fresh, urgent take on the Ibsen classic. Pair it with: Dinner at Farang.
• Ballet Black at 25 at Hackney Empire (Hackney): 21–23 May. A beautiful double bill celebrating 25 years of innovation in British ballet. Pair it with: Pre-theatre bites at Lardo.
• BULLYACHE at Sadler’s Wells East (Stratford/East): 7–9 May. A visceral mix of contemporary dance and pop culture. Pair it with: A canal walk to Hackney Bridge.
• Sabrage at Lafayette (King’s Cross): Selected dates in May. A hedonistic mix of cabaret, acrobatics, and clubbing. Pair it with: Drinks at Spiritland.
• Estorick Collection (Islington): A brilliant, quiet spot for modern Italian art. Pair it with: A coffee in their serene garden café.
Best Theatre and Culture Nights Out in Islington 2026
LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE
• The Big Night Out: Dialled In London at EartH Hackney (30 May) or The Sundown Rodeo at Village Underground (2 May).
• Intimate Live Music: Seth Lakeman at Union Chapel (15 May) for stunning acoustics, or Puma Blue at Village Underground (25–30 May) for moody, jazz-inflected vocals.
• Jazz & Experimental: Ishmael Ensemble at EartH Hackney (9 May) or any given night at Cafe OTO in Dalston.
• Alternative/Indie: Check the listings at The Lexington in Islington or Moth Club in Hackney for the best rising bands.
• Late-Night Clubbing: Casa PARISI at Village Underground (15 May), or head up to Fabric and Egg London for warehouse energy.
FOOD, DRINK & NEW OPENINGS
Islington:
• Best Date Night: Trullo or Primeur.
• Best Casual Eats: Sambal Shiok (the laksa is legendary) or Tofu Vegan.
• Best Pre-Theatre: Bellanger on Islington Green.
Hackney:
• Best Brunch: Towpath Café (reopened for the season) or Pophams.
• Best Vibe: Angelina for Italian-Japanese fusion or Elliot’s for natural wine and wood-fired cooking.
Shoreditch:
• Best Group Dinner: Dishoom Shoreditch or Gloria.
• Best Splurge: Lyle’s or Brat.
King’s Cross:
• Best Terraces: Parrillan (cook your own seafood over mini grills) or The Lighterman.
• Best Quick Lunch: Sons + Daughters or Lina Stores.
MARKETS, WALKS & FREE THINGS TO DO
The Perfect May Walking Route:
Start your morning at Broadway Market (Saturdays). Grab a coffee from a local roaster, browse the stalls, and pick up a pastry. Walk south through London Fields, then join the Regent’s Canal path heading west. You’ll pass the barges in Haggerston and De Beauvoir before hitting Islington. Detour up to Camden Passage to browse the vintage stalls, then walk through Highbury Fields. End your afternoon with a well-earned pint at The Canonbury Tavern.
Other essential free spots include the street art around Brick Lane, the tranquil oasis of Abney Park Cemetery in Stoke Newington, and the fountains at Granary Square.
BEST MAY ROUTES
Route 1: Islington Date Night
Upper Street drinks at Little Bat → Theatre at the Almeida → Dinner at Trullo or The Tamil Prince → Nightcap at 69 Colebrooke Row.
What’s on in Islington This week
Route 2: Hackney Saturday
Broadway Market grazing → Sunshine in London Fields → Netil Market browsing → Canal-side drinks at Crate Brewery → Dancing at Colour Factory or Night Tales.
Route 3: Shoreditch After Dark
Browsing Redchurch Street → Dinner at Smoking Goat or Manteca → Sunset views at Boundary Rooftop → Late-night gig at Village Underground or XOYO.
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Route 4: King’s Cross Canal Day
Street food at Canopy Market → Shopping at Coal Drops Yard → Browsing books at Word on the Water → Drinks at Spiritland or The Drop → Tapas at Barrafina.
What’s On in Kings Cross this week – Best Bank Holiday plans(27th apr-3rd may 2026)
Route 5: Sunday Reset
Blooms at Columbia Road Flower Market → Quiet time at Museum of the Home → Brunch at Towpath Café → Regent’s Canal walk → Sunday roast at The Spurstowe Arms.
The best Sunday lunches in & around Islington 2026
BANK HOLIDAY MAY IDEAS
With the long weekends this May, North and East London are primed for all-day plans.
• Brunch: Book early for Granger & Co in King’s Cross or Sunday in Barnsbury.
• Rooftops: Secure a table at Kaso or Queen of Hoxton to catch the sunset.
• Beer Gardens: The Chesham Arms in Hackney and The Albion in Islington are essential bank holiday territory.
• Late Nights: Keep an eye out for extended bank holiday sets at Dalston Superstore or The Shacklewell Arms.
(Remember: Bank holidays mean places book up fast. If there’s a terrace or Sunday roast you really want, book it now.)
FAMILY-FRIENDLY MAY IDEAS
• Little Angel Theatre (Islington): Brilliant, world-class puppet shows designed specifically for kids.
• Granary Square Fountains (King’s Cross): Bring a towel. The kids will run through the water jets for hours.
• Hackney City Farm & Freightliners Farm: Free to enter, incredibly charming, and great for young families wanting a taste of the country in the city.
• Camley Street Natural Park: A two-acre urban nature reserve right next to King’s Cross. Great for bug hunting.
• Young V&A (Bethnal Green/Near Shoreditch): Freshly revamped and undeniably the best museum in London for children.
RAINY DAY IDEAS
May weather can turn quickly. If the skies open:
• Catch an indie film from a plush sofa at Everyman King’s Cross, Screen on the Green (Islington), or The Castle Cinema (Hackney).
• Lose yourself in the brutalist maze of the Barbican Centre—check out their indoor conservatory or the latest exhibition.
• Wander the British Library exhibitions in King’s Cross.
• Book an afternoon at the Waitrose Cookery School at King’s Cross for a hands-on indoor activity.
WHERE TO DRINK OUTSIDE THIS MAY
When the sun is out, these are the best terraces, pub gardens, and rooftops:
• Islington: The Albion, The Drapers Arms, The Canonbury Tavern, Plaquemine Lock.
• Hackney: The Spurstowe Arms, The Chesham Arms, The People’s Park Tavern, Barge East, Netil360 (check opening times).
• Shoreditch: Boundary Rooftop, Kaso, The Crown and Shuttle, The Owl & Pussycat.
• King’s Cross: The Lighterman, Parrillan, Granary Square Brasserie terrace.
EDITOR’S PICKS
If you only do 10 things this May, make it these:
1. Book a theatre night in Islington at the Almeida or Sadler’s Wells.
2. Spend a hazy Saturday eating your way through Broadway Market.
3. Do a King’s Cross canal-side evening starting at Coal Drops Yard.
4. Try a Shoreditch rooftop cocktail at Boundary as the sun goes down.
5. Catch intimate live music at the breathtaking Union Chapel or EartH.
6. Navigate the chaotic, colourful joy of Columbia Road Flower Market.
7. Eat somewhere new in Hackney (Angelina or Elliot’s are strong shouts).
8. Take a long Regent’s Canal walk from Islington to Victoria Park.
9. Plan a proper bank holiday lunch at a sun-drenched pub like The Albion.
10. End a Sunday resetting in a great beer garden like The Chesham Arms.
FAQ SECTION
What’s on in Islington in May 2026?
Islington in May 2026 features A Doll’s House at the Almeida Theatre, live gigs at Union Chapel, and bustling weekends at Camden Passage. Expect pub gardens like The Albion and The Drapers Arms to be busy as the weather warms up.
What’s on in Hackney in May 2026?
Hackney highlights include Ballet Black at 25 at the Hackney Empire, the Dialled In London 5th birthday at EartH, and weekend crowds returning to the grassy spots of London Fields and the waterside at Hackney Wick.
What’s on in Shoreditch in May 2026?
Shoreditch in May 2026 brings huge club nights like Liquicity and Casa PARISI at Village Underground, busy rooftop bars like Boundary and Kaso, and vintage shopping around Brick Lane and Redchurch Street.
What’s on in King’s Cross in May 2026?
King’s Cross is hosting the spectacular Sabrage cabaret at Lafayette, alongside outdoor dining at Coal Drops Yard, weekend browsing at Canopy Market, and canal-side relaxing near Granary Square.
What are the best free things to do in North and East London this May?
Top free activities include walking the Regent’s Canal, exploring the street art in Shoreditch, visiting Camley Street Natural Park, and letting the kids play in the Granary Square fountains.
Where should I go for live music in Islington and Hackney?
For spectacular acoustics, visit Union Chapel or Islington Assembly Hall. In Hackney, EartH, Moth Club, and Oslo are the best spots for indie, jazz, and electronic gigs.
What are the best May bank holiday ideas in London?
Spend your bank holiday grazing at Broadway Market, day-partying at a Shoreditch rooftop, walking the New River Walk, or booking a long Sunday roast at a local pub garden like The Canonbury Tavern.
Where can I go for rooftop drinks near Shoreditch and King’s Cross?
In Shoreditch, head to Boundary Rooftop, Kaso, or Queen of Hoxton. Near King’s Cross, the rooftop at The Standard offers incredible views and a great vibe.
What are good family-friendly things to do this May?
Families should check out puppet shows at Little Angel Theatre, visit the animals at Hackney City Farm, or spend the afternoon at the Young V&A and Victoria Park.
What are the best markets to visit this May?
Broadway Market is essential for Saturday street food, Columbia Road for Sunday flowers, Canopy Market for artisan crafts, and Camden Passage for antiques.
Written and edited by Islington Local Guide
Islington Local Guide is a discovery-led local editorial platform covering Islington and nearby North and East London. We publish curated guides to what’s on, restaurants, bars, brunch, culture, hidden gems, neighbourhood spots and notable new openings, with a focus on helping readers find what is genuinely worth doing, booking and knowing about
