No ifs or buts, it’s about time you started planning some incredible things to do in May. With the Royal Wedding and the return of summer pop-ups, it’s set to be one helluva month, and DesignMyNight have given us the lowdown on all the top places to go and things to do. From London’s first artisan gin cruise to ordering cocktails from the world’s largest espresso martini menu, here’s where to live your best life this month.

1. London Gin Cruise – London

If (like most of the population) you’re partial to a G&T, there’s a gin cruise taking place in London this May, and you need to be onboard. You’ll be sailing down the beautiful canals of Little Venice and Camden Lock, taking part in a masterclass led by a professional distiller and sipping on three bespoke serves of your favourite poison. There’ll also be gin-inspired tapas, music, and a goody bag packed with copa glasses and juniper goodies to take home.

2. Dirty Lobster Brunch – London

Looking for a brunch that’s gonna require ordering a new outfit? Dirty Lobster is a brunch party dedicated to the finest seafood around, and it’s a great contender for your next day date. It’s going to have DJ sets, live entertainment and plenty of brunch-inspired cocktails to keep you hydrated. as you make your way through three courses of lobster soup with pickled hokkaido pumpkin, lobster rolls and apple tarte tatin.

3. The Espresso Martini Society – London

London isn’t afraid to be extra, and it doesn’t get any more extra than a pop-up dedicated to espresso martinis, does it? Serving the largest list of variations in the world, the bar is making your boozy coffee dreams come true with a 20-strong menu featuring unusual drinks like the A-List Avocado and The Big Cheese(cake). Worried about getting too wired? You can always enjoy them decaf.

4. London Burlesque Festival – London

Live out your tassel-filled fantasies at London Burlesque Festival this month; a celebration of the best cabaret, burlesque and variety acts in London and beyond. Whether you want a risque revue with avant-garde performers, a danger strip show where aeralists execute death-defying stunts or a classic showgirls gin and jazz show, you won’t be disappointed at this one-of-a-kind festival.

5. The Royal Wedding Party – London

Gutted about not being invited to Meghan and Harry’s royal nuptials? Don’t be. There’s a Royal Wedding Party happening at One Marylebone, and it’s gonna be just as good as the real thing. During the day there’ll be a quintessentially British line-up of bouquet making, wedding cake decorating, and a live screening of the wedding with a hog roast and Champagne. In the evening, expect a rollicking royal reception with Ed Sheeran and Elton John tribute acts, all fuelled with signature Bourne and Hollingsworth cocktails.

6. Chicken & Goose At The RVT – Birmingham

The Rose Villa Tavern have teamed up with Grey Goose for a special masterclass where you can learn to make delectable vodka-based tipples. You’ll be having a go at making five special concoctions with help from the experts, so you can wow future dinner party guests until the end of time. As for the chicken? You’ll get a portion of their legendary chicken wings to soak up any excess booze.

7. Rosé Soirée – Bristol

Calling all pink wine enthusiasts: Riverstation in Bristol are hosting an evening made for rosé lovers. Rosé-inspired cocktails? Check. Frosé and rosé slushies? Check. A food menu themed around and cooked with rosé? You betcha. To top it off, this snazzy evening will start with canapes, which you’ll be able to enjoy whilst admiring beautiful views overlooking the river.

8. Margarita Rumble – Manchester

Every avid margarita drinker’s wildest dreams are about to be realised this May, ’cause the epic Margarita Rumble is coming to Manchester. The city’s best cocktail bars will be out in full force to whip you up their own sweet and salty creations, and you’ll decide who takes the title of ‘best margarita’. You’ll have two hours to get those crucial tastings in, and there’ll also be mouth-watering tacos on offer for the ultimate Mexican experience.

9. Pizza and Prosecco Festival – Liverpool

If you think pizza and prosecco are a match made in heaven, cancel your plans for the 19th May, ‘cause the ultimate food festival is coming to Liverpool. Prepare to be greeted with a free Aperol spritz when you arrive, an actual prosecco bible and the most rustic slice of pizza you’ve ever tasted. You can then work your way through the 20 types of prosecco they have on offer, and enjoy slice after slice from the independent street food vendors. There’s also going to be classic sing-along tunes blaring out, DJ sets and live performers.

10. Hush Presents Cinco De Mayo The Margarita Murders – London

Hush Mayfair are celebrating Cinco De Mayo with a whodunnit spectacular: The Margarita Murders. This immersive evening will obviously kick off with a margarita, before you try and find out who tried te-quil-a (get it?!) budding movie starlet. Expect mass spillage of pinto beans with shocks and surprises throughout, all whilst you enjoy a mouth-watering four-course Mexican menu (think vegetable stuffed tortilla cigars with shredded cheese).

For more info on what’s on in London and across the UK, visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Instagram and Twitter; @DesignMyNight.

By Niamh Brodie