Spend May Bank Holiday in the Heart of Soho
If you’re looking for the perfect destination for a fun and vibrant day out this May bank holiday, head straight to Soho and Carnaby Street. Whether you’re indulging in foodie hotspots, refreshing your spring wardrobe, or spending quality time with friends and family, this guide will help you make the most of your long weekend in the city.
Nestled in the heart of London, Soho is home to restaurants, pubs, bars, and world-class shopping. It is the perfect destination for casual lunches, evening cocktails, spontaneous retail therapy, and unforgettable nights out.
Where to dine:
With a vibrant blend of restaurants, bars, and cafés, Soho and Carnaby Street offer endless dining options this spring, courtesy of some of London’s most coveted chefs. From al fresco terraces and exciting flavour fusions to delightful sweet treats, the May bank holiday weekend in Soho promises to be full of flavour.
Start your day with a Filipino twist at Panadera Bakery, 3 Hopkins Street
Kick off your morning at Panadera, a modern Filipino bakery serving up irresistible pastries, savoury buns, and artisan coffee with a Southeast Asian flair. From their signature corned beef hash sandwich to fluffy pandesal rolls, it’s a vibrant spot that brings bold flavours and warm hospitality to the heart of Soho.
Discover a taste of Paris at Marjorie’s, 26 Foubert’s Place
Just opened, Marjorie’s brings a slice of Paris to Soho with its intimate two-floor setting and seasonal French menu. Led by chef Giacomo Peretti (formerly of Le Gavroche), the kitchen serves refined yet approachable dishes like crab tart with crab bisque and chicken liver rocher with hazelnut and morello. Pair your meal with a glass from their all-French wine list, featuring both classic and small-batch producers. Whether you’re settling in at the travertine-topped bar or dining in the cosy cellar vault, Marjorie’s is an ideal spot for a relaxed yet elevated evening in the heart of Soho.
Try the sharing plates for a BBQ feast at Goldies, Ground Floor, Kingly Court
A firm favourite for its wood-fired cooking and locally sourced produce, pop into Goldies to dig into some indulgent sharing plates. A cosy yet stylish spot, it’s perfect for group dining and laid-back catch-ups this May bank holiday.
End your day with dinner at HIMI, 4 Newburgh Street
Tucked away on Newburgh Street, HIMI is a modern Japanese izakaya from husband-and-wife chefs Tamas Naszai and Tomoko Hasegawa. Expect refined sharing plates like Scallop Isobe-Age and Yorkshire Wagyu, paired with seasonal wines and rare sakes in a relaxed, intimate setting – perfect for a laid-back yet elevated evening in Soho.
Stop for a glass of wine at Bar Crispin, 19 Kingly Street
After a busy day’s shopping, head to Bar Crispin, an all-day eatery and wine bar offering an ever-changing list of low-intervention wines and European-inspired seasonal small plates, for a sophisticated spot to unwind and toast to the long weekend.
Where to shop:
Featuring a range of independent stores and unique boutiques, Soho and Carnaby Street are the perfect destinations to refresh your spring wardrobe or treat yourself to a beauty boost as we head into the warmer months.
Elevate your fitness wardrobe at TALA, 45 Carnaby Street
Step into TALA’s new Carnaby Street flagship, opening just in time for the May bank holiday weekend, discover activewear that blends performance with sustainability. Known for its flattering fits and responsibly made fabrics, TALA offers everything from gym essentials to athleisure staples perfect for the May bank holiday and beyond. Refresh your workout look with pieces that are as kind to the planet as they are to your wardrobe.
Shop your spring wardrobe at FARM Rio, 1 Carnaby Street
Step into FARM Rio’s vibrant new flagship store on Carnaby Street, where the spirit of Brazil comes alive through bold prints, tropical motifs, and joyful fashion. Opened earlier this month, the 189-square-metre space showcases over 140 pieces from the Summer 25 collection, including signature maxi dresses, graphic tees, tailored minis, and vacation-ready co-ords.
Upgrade your sneaker game at Autry, 61–63 Beak Street
Visit Autry’s first UK flagship store and discover a blend of vintage Americana and Italian craftsmanship. Located in the heart of Soho, this 2,600 sq ft space showcases the brand’s signature 1980s-inspired unisex sneakers with a contemporary, performance-focused twist. Whether you’re a sneaker enthusiast or seeking a stylish upgrade, Autry offers timeless designs that effortlessly combine heritage and modern flair.
Have a mini makeover at Sculpted By Aimee, 20 Foubert’s Place
Stop by this chic makeup boutique for a mini makeover where expert MUAs will refresh your look with effortless, glow-inducing products. Whether you’re updating your spring collection or need a quick touch-up for the evening ahead, head down this May bank holiday.
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating facial at Grown Alchemist, 35 Beak Street
Treat yourself and your besties to a rejuvenating facial at Grown Alchemist in Soho. Explore their high-performance skincare essentials designed to refresh and renew, making it the perfect self-care experience this May bank holiday.
Stop for a sweet treat
Pause for a coffee and cupcake pick-me-up at Crumbs & Dollies, Ground Floor Kingly Court
Whether you fancy a cupcake, cookie, brownie, blondie, rocky road, or a perfectly poured cup of coffee, a trip to Crumbs & Dollies is the perfect sweet treat amidst a busy May bank holiday itinerary. The shop menu changes each week, so there’s always something new to try, all freshly baked each day.
End the day with a cult doughnut at Donutelier, 50 Carnaby Street
A boutique doughnut store taking the classic doughnut to the next level with their intricate designs, Donutelier is a must-visit for a sweet treat this May bank holiday. Much like a fashion atelier, the boutique is a workshop where each design is intricately crafted from scratch, using beloved family recipes that are three decades strong.
