- As the first Bank Holiday of May approaches, car-sharing marketplace Turo has compiled a list of the most picturesque May Day events across the UK, from traditional Morris Dancing spectacles to charming village celebrations.
- Brits can look forward to Monday, 5th May, when the country comes alive with centuries-old festivities at scenic spots, castles, and viewpoints – with Turo also providing handy travel tips for drivers.
- From Hastings to Somerset, there are countless activities to enjoy, with the freedom of the open road just a booking away.
Rory Brimmer, UK Managing Director of car sharing marketplace Turo, commented: “May Day, and the first of the month’s Bank Holidays, offers Brits the chance to see traditions that are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. It also provides a fantastic opportunity to see more of the UK, at your own pace.
“With Turo, you have the freedom to discover these traditions on your own terms, whether it’s a leisurely drive down to Hastings or a trip up to a scenic West Yorkshire viewpoint. Forget the rigid train schedules and the crowded tours – it’s just you, the open road, and the beauty of Spring unfolding around you. The journey isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about making every mile as memorable as the destination itself.”
Turo’s top May Day 2025 destinations
Mells, Somerset
Best for: Traditional Village Fête and Somerset Morris
There is evidence of human activity around the village of Mells from as far back as 6000 BC, so there is no shortage of history and tradition here. The village is one of the prettiest you could hope to see, with architecture from as far back as the 15th century, including the picturesque St Andrews Church.
The village fête runs all day on the 5th of May, with visitors paying £10 for the car park and free entry after that. The fête includes performances from Somerset Morris Dancers, at 12:15 and 2:30pm, as well as food, talks and games.
Event date(s): 5th May
Hastings’ Traditional Jack in the Green, Hastings, East Sussex
Best for: Discovering the history of the Green Man
Since 1983, Hastings has hosted a number of May Day events, with the Jack in the Green parade through the high street one of the most unique. Following in the footsteps of traditional folk events, the “Jack” parades through the streets alongside a host of other characters before being shorn of his foliage and leaves, giving spectators a chance to catch a leaf and secure good luck for the year ahead.
The weekend also sees Morris Dancing and other events in the town, but the main event takes place on Bank Holiday Monday from 10am.
Event date(s): 3rd, 4th and 5th of May
Dawn Morris Dancing, Otley, West Yorkshire
Best for: Sunrise views and Morris Dancing
For those not afraid of an early start, Surprise View in Chevin Country Park in West Yorkshire could offer a spectacular view of the countryside, a beautiful sunrise and traditional border-style Morris Dancing.
If you are planning on visiting, drivers can park in Surprise View car park, head up the steps at the top of the car park and then turn left onto the Chevin, the viewing point is a short walk along the path from there, with the sounds of the bells offering a sonic guide.
Event date(s): 1st May
Hever Castle, Kent
Best for: Maypole dancing and joining in on the fun
Hever Castle has housed a range of important historical figures, not least Henry VIII’s second wife Anne Boleyn, who partially grew up here. But over the early May Bank Holiday weekend, it will instead host a range of events, including Maypole dancing demonstrations.
Tickets are available on the Hever Castle website, and guests are encouraged to get involved and have a go at the traditional English folk dance alongside a range of other activities and tours.
Event date(s): 3rd, 4th and 5th May
