Things to do in Cambridge this May

Things to do in Cambridge this May

May is one of the best times to visit Cambridge. As spring gives way to early summer, the city comes alive with festivals, live music, theatre, outdoor events, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or a lively weekend break, there’s something happening across the city throughout the month, not to forget may half term for the schools which happens towards the end of the month.

Seasonal Highlights

Ely’s Eel Day & Festival Weekend

3 May  10:30am–4pm

One of the region’s most unique and family-friendly events returns this May.

Ely’s much-loved Eel Day kicks off with a vibrant, colourful Eel Parade, setting the tone for a fun-filled celebration. The day continues with live music and entertainment, community stalls, family activities, and a tempting selection of food vendors, all topped off by the famously quirky World Eel Throwing Championship (using very much non-real eels!).

Visitors can also discover fascinating facts about real eels with the Environment Agency and even try a variety of eel-inspired dishes if you dare!

It’s a fun-filled day for all ages and part of Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend 2026.

Cambridge Food & Drink Week

9–17 May

Food lovers are in for a treat during Cambridge Food & Drink Week, a city-wide celebration of the area’s vibrant culinary scene.

It’s worth keeping a look out for:

• Exclusive dining offers and tasting menus
• Pop-up events and themed food trails

  

• Showcases from local cafés, restaurants, and bars.

It’s the perfect opportunity to discover Cambridge at its most delicious.

Cambridge Beer Festival

18–23 May Jesus Green

One of the UK’s longest running and most popular beer festivals returns to Jesus Green this May.

Highlights include:

• Hundreds of real ales, ciders, and international drinks
• Street food stalls and live entertainment
• A lively, sociable atmosphere.

 

Duxford VE Flying Day

Saturday 9th May

History and aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss the VE Flying Day at Duxford this May.

Watch historic aircraft take to the skies while exploring one of the UK’s most impressive aviation museums. It’s a fantastic day out for families, history lovers, and anyone looking to experience something uniquely memorable during their stay in Cambridge.

Discover Historic Bourn Windmill

Saturday 9th May

Set in the beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside, Bourn Windmill is believed to be the oldest surviving windmill in England, dating back to the reign of Henry VIII.

Open once a month during the summer, visitors can enjoy guided tours, learn about the windmill’s fascinating history, and even help turn the mill on its post — a rare hands-on experience that brings the past to life.

Run by dedicated volunteers and cared for by local charity CambridgePPF, the site also offers tea, coffee, and homemade cakes to enjoy after your visit.

Admission:

• Members: Free
• Adults: £4
• Children: £1

Last tour: 4pm

Theatre, Music & Live Entertainment

Things to do in Cambridge this May

Cambridge Arts Theatre

Cambridge Arts Theatre has an excellent line-up this May, featuring drama, musicals, opera, and family favourites.

Highlights include:

• War of the Worlds 29 April – 2 May  A dramatic adaptation of the sci-fi classic featuring immersive visuals and powerful storytelling.
• There’s a Snake in My School 4–5 May A fun, family-friendly musical based on the popular children’s book.
• English Touring Opera: The Gondoliers & Pagliacci 7–9 May
  A mix of light-hearted operetta and powerful Italian opera.
• Death on the Nile 12–16 May
  One of the month’s biggest theatre events — a gripping Agatha Christie mystery packed with suspense.
• A Squash and a Squeeze 27–31 May
  A charming adaptation of the beloved children’s story, perfect for half-term family visits.

 

Cambridge Corn Exchange

The Corn Exchange hosts an exciting mix of comedy, live music, and special performances throughout May. From classical music to comedy and chart-topping artists, there’s something for every taste.

Upcoming Shows

• Ellen Kent’s Carmen — 10 May
• I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue (Live) — 11 May
• Alfie Boe — 13 May
• Christopher Cross — 14 May
• Judi Love: All About the Love — 16 May

  

• Tom Gates Epic Show — 17 May
• James Morrison — 18 May
• Nigel Kennedy – Virtuoso — 19 May

 

Live Events at Cambridge Junction 

May Music Highlights

• Tide Lines 13 May – A lively Scottish band blending folk, indie, and uplifting anthems.
• The Tumbling Paddies 15 May – An energetic Irish folk group known for crowd-pleasing live performances.
• The Longest Johns 26 May – The hugely popular sea shanty and folk group promises a memorable night.
• Aldous Harding 27 May – A critically acclaimed indie-folk artist performing an atmospheric live set.
• May Comedy & Entertainment
• The Comedy Store Players 8 May – A relaxed evening of stand-up comedy and improvisation.
• MC Hammersmith 25 May – A unique mix of freestyle rap and comedy, quirky, fun, and very Junction-style.

Club Nights

• Bed By 10 (30+ Clubbing) – 16 May 4pm–9pm
  An early-evening club night featuring the best hits from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s — ideal for guests who want a fun night out without the late finish.

Arts & Culture –

Things to do in Cambridge this May

Kettle’s Yard

Kettle’s Yard hosts several excellent talks and creative workshops this month.

Featured Events

• Painting Flowers Workshop — 9 May
• Art & Flowers Talk with Sean A. Pritchard — 11 May
• In Conversation: Flower Painting Now — 20 May

These intimate events combine art, creativity, horticulture, and design in one of Cambridge’s most unique cultural spaces.

 

The Fitzwilliam Museum

A visit to Cambridge wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Fitzwilliam Museum, one of the city’s top cultural attractions and always free to enter.

Current Exhibitions

• Frank Bowling: Seeking the Sublime Until January 2027 –A major exhibition featuring bold abstract works from one of Britain’s leading contemporary artists.
• War Craft Until August 2026 – A thought-provoking exhibition exploring conflict, history, and artistic response.
• Essence and Presence Ongoing – A beautifully curated display of works from across cultures and centuries.

 

Girton Jewellery Fair

17 May 10am–4pm

Discover beautiful handcrafted jewellery, vintage treasures, and unique accessories at the Girton Jewellery Fair, held at The William Collyn Community Centre. Browse a wide variety of styles and materials from talented local makers and antique dealers. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece or a special gift, there’s plenty to explore.

Looking for Somewhere to Stay

Our Cambridge B&B rooms are open out of term time. They are  simple and affordable, and many have an en-suite bathroom. As a guest of the College, you are welcome to explore the beautiful grounds which are steeped in history and are home to Milton’s Mulberry Tree and Darwin’s Garden (a former alumni of the College).

We have recently been awarded a Visit England  4 Star Campus Award, so you can be sure of a warm welcome.

To find out more about the Bed and Breakfast accommodation we offer visit https://www.christscollegehospitality.co.uk/

Book directly with us and you will receive 10 percent off our publicised rates. Just use the code BOOKDIRECT Plan you weekend in Cambridge. We can’t wait to welcome you.