Newbury Spring Festival
9-23 May 2026
For a full fortnight, West Berkshire gives itself over to proper, goosebump-inducing music as the Newbury Spring Festival returns with 45 performances across 19 venues. You'll find intimate chamber recitals one minute, full-throttle orchestral drama the next, with names like Dominic Alldis Trio, Budapest Café Orchestra and the London Mozart Players. It is one of the strongest cultural line-ups outside London, and an excellent excuse to explore the county.
Royal Windsor Horse Show
14-17 May 2026
A highlight of the royal calendar, the Royal Windsor Horse Show brings elite showjumping, dressage and the iconic Household Cavalry displays to Windsor Castle. For many, the people-watching and the shopping village, is almost as good as the sport. Spot tweed, leather, heritage brands, artisan makers and quietly expensive country kit everywhere – there'll be plenty to buy that you didn't know you 'needed'.
AM:PM Vintage Fashion Shop, Hungerford
This spring, Hungerford's fashion offering got a boost with the exciting arrival of AM:PM Vintage in Barrs Yard. Think silk blouses, sequinned jackets and one-off accessories sourced from private estates and European markets. With late-night drops and a fizz-fuelled party vibe, it's fast become the county's new go-to for fashion hunters who love a good rummage.
The Reading Indie Comedy Festival
14-17 May 2026
Reading's comedy scene bursts into life in May with a long weekend of stand-up, sketch and alternative acts. This year brings big names like Harriet Kemsley, Simon Brodkin and Sara Pascow, alongside rising stars worth discovering early. It's the perfect excuse for a night out that guarantees belly laughs.
The Jack O'Newbury
After two years of renovations, this historic village inn reopens as a gastropub led by Michelin-starred chef Dom Chapman and restauranteur Nigel Sutcliffe – both Fat Duck alumni. The menu will be seasonal British cooking, classic puddings and a serious Sunday roast. There are 11 beautifully designed bedrooms and a wildflower meadow. It's one of the county's most exciting pub launches this year.
Pub In The Park, Higginson Park
14-17 May 2026
Epic food, live music and a festival atmosphere return to Higginson Park as Pub in the Park marks its 100th anniversary year. Chefs including James Martin, Matt Tebutt and Raymond Blanc will be cooking, with Jools Holland opening the weekend. Add pop-up restaurants, demos and performances from Craig David, McFly and Razorlight. It's the ultimate foodie weekend.
Reading Children's Festival
9-31 May 2026
This month-long programme of family-friendly theatre, workshops and outdoor activities kicks off with Forbury Fiesta. Look out for storytelling, circus skills and hands-on arts and crafts. It's a brilliant way to keep little ones entertained throughout May.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Watermill Theatre
26 May-13 Sept 2026
The Watermill – surely one of the most atmospheric theatres in the country – is taking on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang for the summer, and it's hard to imagine a lovelier prospect. With just 220 seats and gardens tumbling down to the River Lambourn, this magical, slightly secret-garden theatre offers an intimate, joyful way to experience this nostalgic musical. Tickets will vanish.
Private Lives, Reading Rep Theatre
16 April-9 May 2026
Time Out calls it a 'masterclass in wit' and this chic revival of Noël Coward's classic comedy of manners more than earns its praise. Expect razor-sharp dialogue, immaculate timing and all the glamorous chaos of Elyot and Amanda's ill-advised reunion. Running through the first half of May, it's a good excuse to slip into Reading Rep for a night out.
Open Studios West Berkshire & North Hampshire
9-25 May 2026
Berkshire's answer to a countryside art crawl. For over two weeks, hundreds of artists throw open their studio doors – from barns and garden workshops to sleek contemporary spaces – letting you browse and chat to the makers in a way that feels wonderfully un-gallery-like. Start at the INSIGHT exhibition at The Base in Greenham, where there's a curated selection of work, to plan your route like a pro.
FAQs: May in Berkshire
What's on in Berkshire in May 2026?
Berkshire has a packed May calendar, from the Newbury Spring Festival and Royal Windsor Horse Show to Pub in the Park, Reading's comedy festival and a new season at The Watermill Theatre.
Are there family-friendly events in Berkshire this May?
Yes. Reading Children's Festival runs all month with theatre, workshops and outdoor activities, and many major events (including Pub in the Park and Open Studios) offer family-friendly options.
What cultural events are happening in Berkshire in May 2026?
Highlights include the Newbury Spring Festival, a new production at The Watermill Theatre, Reading Rep's Private Lives and the county-wide Open Studios art trail.
Do I need to book May events in Berkshire in advance?
For popular events, such as Pub in the Park, Watermill Theatre performances and Royal Windsor Horse Show, advance booking is strongly recommended as tickets sell quickly.
What new openings or food events are happening in Berkshire this May?
May sees the launch of The Jack O'Newbury gastropub from Fat Duck alumni, plus Michelin-starred chefs cooking at Pub in the Park and the arrival of AM:PM Vintage in Hungerford.
