City in Bloom
Experience London in Full Bloom
May marks the moment London comes into full bloom. The Chelsea Flower Show draws visitors from near and far, while closer to home Columbia Flower Market bursts into life each Sunday. The city’s cultural calendar flourishes too – from London Craft Week and the newly opened V&A East, to a coming-of-age Film House screening right here at art’otel London Hoxton.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026
When it comes to things to do in London this May, Chelsea Flower Show, the world’s most famous floral display, always takes the top spot. From 19 May to Saturday 23 May, the show takes over the Royal Hospital of Chelsea, with visitors coming from all over the world to admire the collection of beautiful gardens created by several talented designers. Highlights this year include Tom Stuart-Smith’s ‘Tate Britain Garden’, inspired by East Asian woodlands, and Sarah Eberle’s garden ‘On The Edge’, celebrating the overlooked edgelands. Public tickets start from £107 and are already selling fast — proof that this is a true bucket‑list moment.
If you can’t make the show, or want to admire without the cost, stroll along the streets around Chelsea during the month of May and you’ll be treated to some floral delights as the streets and shop fronts unveil their own displays. One of the best places to see Chelsea in Bloom 2026 is the Duke of York Square which features the largest central installations.
Our Neighbourhood in Bloom
In our neighbourhood, Columbia Road Flower Market continues to provide visitors every Sunday with a radiant choice of flowers and plants alike. Whether you’re looking for something to refresh your space or just fancy a stroll with a coffee in hand, it’s a delightful May morning activity, and without doubt the best flower market in London. For the best pick, make sure to get there between 8-9:30am and for those after a bargain, head over in the last hour, 2pm-3pm, when traders discount bouquets and plants. If you’re craving more nature after, head down the road to Victoria Park to marvel vibrant flowers bursting with life throughout the park.
May is also the perfect time for dog-friendly stays in London, with the ideal weather for exploration around Shoreditch and beyond. For a pooch-friendly hotel look no further than art’otel London Hoxton. Here, four-legged guests are welcomed with thoughtful touches , from a cosy dog bed in room to the chance to join you for dining at The Brush Grand Café. Whether your dog is the only child in your life, or you’re coming with the whole gang for half-term, let art’otel London Hoxton be your home away from home this season.
A Creative May
Beyond flowers, May is also a month bursting with culture. London Craft Week 2026 runs from 11 to 17 May, bringing together over 1,000 makers, designers, brand and galleries that specialise in ceramics, textiles, metalwork, jewellery, glass and more. At art’otel London Hoxton, we are marking the week with an exhibition “Slow Ways: Our Common Ground”. Inspired by the artists’ extraordinary 1,300 mile walk across the length of Britain; the collaborative exhibition will include handmade pieces from makers they met on their journey of discovery. During this time, our studio will be taken over by a textile collective DYE. WEAVE. PLEAT, followed by Chloé Valoroso both in collaboration with London Craft Week. Pop by during 11-30 May to discover what they are creating and learn more about their process.
For an extra dose of culture, check out the newly opened V&A East, located in Stratford. Its permanent galleries, Why We Make, bring together over 500 objects spanning centuries and cultures, while the museum’s first temporary exhibition, The Music is Black: A British Story, offers an immersive exploration of the power and influence of Black British music. For anyone who wished they’d been at VIN+OMI’s recent fashion show at our hotel, now is your chance to see their garments in real life and on display, as part of the V&A East’s permanent collection.
Film House: The Breakfast Club
As the city flourishes around us, the hotel too offers experiences to awaken your soul. This month’s Film House features the coming-of-age classic “The Breakfast Club” – a timeless story of self-discovery which resonates still today. Paired with a two-course brunch at The Brush East London Grand Café, enjoy delicious dishes like our Smashed Avocado or Braised Short rib with Mac & Cheese before settling into the screening with a cocktail and unlimited popcorn. Taking place on Sunday 24 May, it’s the perfect Bank Holiday weekend afternoon activity, whether you’re nursing a hangover with a bit of comfort watching or just longing for a cult classic film screening.
LED Radiance in Bloom
Over in The Spa our special offer, LED Radiance in Bloom, has been designed to prepare your summer glow. This LED light therapy experience in London includes six 30-minute sessions for the price of five at £250, with complimentary use of the indoor pool, sauna and steam room included. Make this your weekly ritual and enjoy one of the most restorative spa offers in London this spring. You’ll step into summer with a renewed sense of wellbeing and visibly more radiant, illuminated skin – the perfect hotel spa experience for resetting after city life and embracing the season ahead.
May is a month of renewal as the city stretches towards summer. From floral displays and craft‑led exhibitions to cult film screenings and moments of calm at the spa, it’s a season for discovery, connection and inspiration.