5 Things to do in Bristol this May 2025
Looking for things to do in May? We’ve got you covered with events to take you through the whole month of May
- Bristol’s Harbourside Street Food Market: A Feast for the Senses.
Every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, experience the best of Bristol’s vibrant street food scene against the stunning backdrop of the Harbourside. Indulge in a diverse culinary adventure, from sizzling pizzas and aromatic curries to flavourful Nepalese dumplings and comforting cheese toasties.
As the weather warms, The Market Bar serves up local beers, ciders, and spirits, creating the perfect al fresco atmosphere. Relax at provided tables and chairs, or soak up the sun in deckchairs during the summer.
Rooted in sustainability and ethical practices, the Harbourside Market champions local creativity and responsible sourcing. Discover handcrafted goods alongside delicious eats, all with a strong community ethos.
A hit with locals and tourists alike, it’s the ideal spot for a quick lunch, a satisfying meal, or to find unique, handcrafted treasures. Head down to the harbour this weekend and discover the buzz!
Open: Weds & Thurs 12:00–14:30 | Sat & Sun 11:00–16:00
Delve into the eerie underbelly of Bristol’s past on this captivating and informative evening walk. A multi-award winner on TripAdvisor for three consecutive years, including the prestigious 2024 Travellers’ Choice, and voted Bristol’s No.1 experience by GWR FM, this tour has even been featured on Living TV’s Most Haunted and The Source.
Your knowledgeable local host will guide you through Bristol’s most spine-chilling historical locations and intriguing film and TV backdrops, weaving together historical facts, on-screen trivia, and a healthy dose of humour.
Established for 18 years, Bristol’s Haunted and Hidden tour is the city’s longest-running ghost walk, with many returning for another dose of the macabre.
Experience the Haunted and Hidden walk:
- Discover the ghostly legend of Clifton’s Dwarf Highwayman.
- Witness Bristol’s renowned Haunted Cinema.
- Visit a chilling 16th Century Haunted House.
- Hear the tale of a church and its spectral Monk.
- See the location where a cook confronted a ghost.
- Explore fascinating TV and film locations, plus many other intriguing sites!
Departs: Bristol Cathedral, College Green, every Friday night at 8 pm. Private Walks: Available on request, any night.
www.hauntedandhiddenbristol.co.uk
- Get Ready for a Stunning Return: Bristol Folk Festival – May Bank Holiday!
Bristol Folk Festival is back this May Bank Holiday weekend with an incredible line-up of top UK and international folk artists!
The festival ignites on Friday, May 2nd, with the phenomenal Talisk, delivering their chart-topping, groundbreaking folk in a whirlwind of light and sound.
Saturday, May 3rd, brings a special double bill at St George’s Bristol: witness the legendary blues guitarist Martin Simpson share the stage with the brilliant rising star Katherine Priddy.
The grand finale on Sunday, May 4th, at St George’s Bristol, is a world music and strings extravaganza! Prepare to be mesmerized by Royal Harpist Catrin Finch, a true virtuoso, as she performs her acclaimed No.1 album ‘Double You’ with the exceptional Dublin violinist Aoife Ní Bhriain.
Joining this unmissable closing night is the celebrated Gambian multi-instrumentalist and Kora master, Suntou Susso, whose vibrant performance will fill the stage with sunshine and unifying melodies.
But that’s not all! The festival also features a 14-piece folk orchestra, a Paul McCartney-tipped sensation, rousing sea shanties, Bristol’s own 6 Music favourite boci, lively Ceilidhs, captivating sword dancers, and unforgettable Late Night Folk sessions at The Architect.
Dates: May 2nd, 2025 – May 4th, 2025
Kids can unleash their inner artist with spray painting and ink stamping, creating their own conservation-themed masterpieces. For those with a musical flair, there’s a chance to take to the stage and make some noise with a range of instruments. Capture memorable moments by striking a pose in front of the giant SPRINGFEST letters, perfect for sharing on social media.
Test your skills and enjoy some friendly competition with larger-than-life traditional lawn games. Adding to the excitement this year is free face painting, allowing children to transform into their favorite animals with vibrant designs and temporary tattoos.
Beyond the SpringFest activities, a day ticket grants access to the amazing animals that call Bristol Zoo Project home. Witness the bears and wolves in Bear Wood, marvel at the gelada baboons, and adore the red panda pair. The new multi-level adventure play area, Explorers Basecamp, promises endless fun for all ages and abilities, with slides, rope jungles, and climbing walls. When hunger strikes, Base Camp Pizzeria and Courtyard Cafe offer a range of tasty treats, including vegan and gluten-free options.
SpringFest at Bristol Zoo Project promises a memorable day out for the whole family, blending creativity, play, and wildlife encounters. Don’t miss the chance to make lasting memories this May half-term!
Love Saves the Day is gearing up for its 2025 edition at Ashton Court, Bristol, on May 24th and 25th, promising a vibrant celebration of music and culture over the May Bank Holiday weekend. This renowned festival has become a staple in the UK festival scene, known for its eclectic mix of genres and energetic atmosphere.
Festival-goers can expect a diverse lineup featuring some of the biggest names in electronic, dance, hip-hop, and indie music, alongside a strong representation of Bristol’s thriving local talent. The 2025 lineup includes headliners like Overmono and Nia Archives, plus a host of other exciting acts.
See more whats on Bristol by going to https://directlocalbristol.co.uk/whats-on-bristol/
