May Bank Holiday Events in Yorkshire
The sun is finally out, but will it stay out for the bank holiday? Stay tuned. Sunshine or not, we’re spoilt with bank holidays in May! Kick off the summer season right and make the most of the long weekend at any of these intriguing events across Yorkshire, which are ideal to enjoy with your family or friends.
From bustling food festivals to live music sessions at Yorkshire’s finest destination, you’re sure to find something you love with these May Bank Holiday events.
May Spring Bank Holiday Events in Yorkshire
Pinot and Picasso | CrowdedHouse, Leeds | Monday 25th May
Join CrowdedHouse for an evening of colour, cocktails, and nibbles at their Pinot and Picasso event this bank holiday. This relaxed paint and sip style event is the ultimate combination of creativity and everyone’s favourite summer drink.
Enjoy a refreshing Limoncello spritz upon arrival and snacks throughout the evening. Gather the crew for a peaceful evening of crafting, a great way to end the bank holiday.
Where? Level 5 & 6, Trinity Centre, 70 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6HW
Magical Night Market at Shambles Market, York | Monday 25th May
As part of York’s Festival of Wizardry, The Shambles Market is opening on the evening of bank holiday Monday to kick off the kids’ half term holidays.
Wander through the market and watch live performers, discovering fantastic crafts and bakes from local traders.
There’s plenty of streetfood to delve into, and it’s the perfect family friendly evening.
Where? 5 Silver Street, York, YO1 8RY
Sheffield Food Festival | Saturday 25th – Monday 27th May
Sheffield Food Festival will be returning to the Steel City on the May Bank Holiday, bringing an exciting blend of great local produce, mouthwatering street food, talented chefs and outstanding brewers and distillers. Expect to see a spectacular selection of ready-to-eat, delicious food cooked live for diners.
This year, there’ll be whole sections dedicated to different cuisines such as a Street Food section, Artisan Market, Info Village and of course the Main Stage and bar showcasing the best live music. This is set to be one of Yorkshire’s most exciting May Bank Holiday events!
The Black Dragon Brunch | Tattu, Leeds | Every Saturday
Tattu has just launched a brand-new weekend brunch concept. Known for their incredible interiors and vibrant atmosphere, Tattu is the new home for weekend brunching.
With 3 waves of signature plates and mouthwatering Asian-inspired flavours, indulge in cocktails and good vibes this bank holiday weekend!
Where? 29 E Parade, Leeds LS1 5PS
The Minuty Terrace | Saltmoore | From Saturday 3rd May
Sandsend is getting a taste of Provence with Saltmoore’s Chateau Minuty terrace takeover this Spring and Summer. Unwind with a crisp glass of Provence rose and enjoy the beautiful Yorkshire coast alongside a menu of seaside favourites and seasonal plates.
Launching this bank holiday weekend, you know where to find us for the rest of the summer.
Where? Sandsend Road, Whitby YO21 3ST
Koko Evenings | House of Koko, Leeds | Every Saturday
If refined yet relaxed dining is your thing, you can’t miss Koko Evenings, which launched earlier this April. House of Koko in Leeds City Centre is swapping poached eggs for homemade labneh and onglet steak with their new Lebanese-inspired evening menu.
Join them every Saturday for wine, small plates or even a cheeky cocktail.
Where? 18 Central Rd, Leeds LS1 6DE
Sunday Sessions | Grantley Hall, Ripon | Every Sunday
Grantley Hall have perfected their ‘Sunday Sessions’ in The Orchard for the spring and summer months. Expect a warm welcome, relaxed atmosphere, refreshing cocktails and outstanding food at Yorkshire’s renowned five-star hotel.
Sessions are hosted each Sunday, so make the most of the longer evenings and enjoy acoustic sounds by a variety of local artists. Their food and drink menus boast light and refreshing options, including Whitby Lobster, Chargrilled Seabass and other delectable dishes.
This Bank Holiday weekend, sip on a glass of Champagne or a Chandon Garden Spritz and bask in beautiful countryside views at sunset.
Where? Grantley Hall, Ripon HG4 3ET
Spring afternoon tea | The Grand, York | Served every day
York’s very best afternoon tea has had a spring makeover. The Grand’s spring afternoon till is bursting bright and bold flavours in spring. It’s not only a seasonal twist on their iconic afternoon tea but a celebration of the Yorkshire flavours of the season.
Head Pastry Chef Devin Jones has crafted the perfect experience that oozes elegance and grandeur, making for the perfect afternoon to treat youself or someone special.
Where? Station Rise, York YO1 6GD
Great British Food Festival | Harewood House, Leeds | Saturday 25th – Monday 27th May
The Great British Food Festival at Harewood House is the perfect recipe for a fun, foodie day out where the whole family can get together. For three days over the Bank Holiday weekend, you can see fabulous artisan producers, street food, celebrity chef demos, live music, kids’ activities and men vs meat.
The Great British Food Festival is also dog-friendly, so it’s perfect for the whole family. It’s not too late to join in these May Bank Holiday events!
Where? Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LE
Thor’s Tipi | City Square, Leeds | From May 14th
Our favourite city centre seasonal bar is back, and this time the sun is shining! Whether it’s a spritz or a pint of something more local, this addition to City Square is going to be perfect for a long summer of relaxing.
Each Friday, you can expect themed events from Hawaiian to Oktoberfest, but crisp pints, fire pits and glitterballs are guaranteed.
Leeds Jazz Festival | Thursday 21st May – Tuesday 26th May
Up next is Leeds Jazz Festival, an exciting five days celebrating independent artists, local venues and fantastic live music.
Returning for it’s third year this year, there’s an array of events and activities throughout Leeds to get involved with.
Where? Main stage : Cookridge Street, Leeds City Centre
No.1 GuestHouse York Sparkling Afternoon Tea
1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA- Insta-worthy Grade II listed townhouse hotel
- Close to York’s iconic Minster
- SAVE 19% off
Coniston Spa Yorkshire Dales Retreat
Coniston Cold, Skipton BD23 4EA- Set in the tranquil surroundings of The Coniston Estate
- Award-winning multi-million-pound spa facilities
- SAVE 15% off
Masons of Yorkshire Gin Distillery Tour with Tastings
Northallerton, DL7 9EE- Guided tour and tasting experience inside a multi-award-winning distillery
- Yorkshire’s first gin distillery
- SAVE 10% off
£50 CrowdedHouse Restaurant Voucher
Level 5 & 6, Trinity Centre, 70 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6HW- Stunning rooftop bar and restaurant with great views
- Mouthwatering small plates
- SAVE 25%
Written by
12/04/2026